Hospitality Sector Calls for GST Simplification and Digital Innovation in Budget 2025

Hospitality Sector Calls for GST Simplification and Digital Innovation in Budget 2025

By Nishang Narayan

Published on January 24, 2025

As Budget 2025 approaches, the hospitality industry is voicing its expectations for strategic reforms to drive growth and innovation. Vishal Puri, Co-Founder of Spalba, highlighted the industry's need for simplified GST compliance to ease operational challenges and promote business expansion.

“The hospitality sector is a vital contributor to India’s economic growth, and while it holds immense potential, operational hurdles must be addressed,” Puri stated. He urged the government to prioritize GST streamlining, which would reduce administrative burdens and foster a more business-friendly environment.

Beyond taxation, sustainability remains a key focus for the industry. Puri emphasized the importance of introducing mandatory sustainability practices such as energy-efficient construction and waste management. He suggested that tax incentives for renewable energy adoption in hotels and resorts could significantly lower operational costs while promoting eco-friendly practices.

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In addition to physical infrastructure, digital advancements are critical for the sector’s growth. Puri advocated for the integration of digital twin technology, which creates virtual replicas of physical spaces, enabling hotels to optimize operations and elevate customer experiences. He proposed that the government incentivize the adoption of digital infrastructure technologies, especially in large-scale projects and government-backed events, to accelerate industry-wide transformation.

“A balanced approach merging sustainability, digital transformation, and regional growth will not only help the hospitality sector thrive but also contribute to a smarter, greener India,” he added. Encouraging digital innovation, such as e-infrastructure solutions with robust intellectual property protections, will pave the way for long-term sectoral growth and efficiency.

About Spalba

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Spalba is a SaaS-based event-tech platform revolutionizing venue scouting and event planning. The platform empowers hotels like The Leela, Trident, and The Oberoi by offering advanced tools such as 3D walkthroughs and digital twins. These technologies enable hotels to provide virtual venue tours, reducing the need for physical visits and cutting down carbon footprints. By enhancing online presence and streamlining event planning, Spalba helps hotels attract international clients, boost bookings, and drive revenue growth.

With the right policies and government support, industry stakeholders believe that Budget 2025 can pave the way for a future where hospitality seamlessly integrates sustainability with digital transformation.


Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Reports Strong Growth Across EMEA in 2024

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Reports Strong Growth Across EMEA in 2024

By Nishang Narayan

Published on March 12, 2025

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, the world's largest hotel franchising company, has continued its rapid expansion across Europe, the Middle East, Eurasia, and Africa (EMEA) in 2024. With 83 new contracts signed and over 50 hotels opened, the company has added more than 6,400 rooms to its portfolio, strengthening its presence in high-growth markets such as France, India, Spain, Türkiye, and Portugal.

This growth contributed to Wyndham’s 5% year-over-year increase in its global development pipeline, which now stands at a record 252,000 rooms worldwide. The EMEA region alone achieved 10% RevPAR growth, further demonstrating the strength of Wyndham’s brand portfolio and its commitment to supporting hotel owners through its Owner First™ approach to franchising.

"Wyndham's strong momentum in 2024 underscores the strength of our diverse brand portfolio and growing regional demand. We continue to strengthen our presence in key markets across EMEA while expanding into high-growth segments such as extended stay and branded residences. Our expansion in upscale segments, including Dolce by Wyndham in Europe, India, and the UAE, offers exciting opportunities for our business partners. As we grow, our focus remains on delivering long-term value through our Owner First strategies and providing exceptional experiences for travelers."

— Dimitris Manikis, President EMEA, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts

Key Growth Highlights Across EMEA

1. Strengthening Presence in Türkiye

Wyndham remains the largest international hotel company in Türkiye, with 120+ hotels across 40+ cities. Key 2024 openings include:

  • Days Inn by Wyndham Alanya – A modern, budget-friendly resort along the Mediterranean coast.
  • Boreas Hotel, Trademark Collection by Wyndham – The first Trademark Collection hotel in Ankara, offering a contemporary stay in the capital.
  • Wyndham Garden Cambasi – A picturesque retreat in the Black Sea highlands of Ordu.

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2. Expanding Ramada Across the Middle East & South Asia

The Ramada by Wyndham brand continued its strategic expansion with notable 2024 openings, including:

  • Ramada by Wyndham Ahmedabad Narendra Modi Stadium Motera – Ideally located inside Narendra Modi Stadium.
  • Ramada by Wyndham Kathmandu Dhumbarai – A premium hotel near UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
  • Ramada Resort by Wyndham Gilgit – A luxury resort in Gilgit’s growing tourism hub.

3. Meeting Midscale Demand with Ramada Encore

Wyndham expanded its Ramada Encore brand across EMEA to cater to the growing midscale market. New openings in 2024 include:

  • Ramada Encore by Wyndham Konya Karatay (Türkiye)
  • Ramada Encore by Wyndham Rajbagh Srinagar (India) – A serene riverside getaway.
  • Ramada Encore by Wyndham Bhiwadi Phool Bagh Chowk (India) – Strategically located in an industrial hub.
  • Ramada Encore by Wyndham Viramgam (India) – A full-service hotel in Ahmedabad’s business district.

4. Expanding Dolce by Wyndham in the Upscale & MICE Segments

Dolce by Wyndham, a leader in luxury and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) hotels, continues to grow with two major openings:

  • Dolce by Wyndham Barcelona Resort – A luxury golf retreat in Spain’s Penedès wine country.
  • Dolce by Wyndham Çeşme Alaçatı – The brand’s first Turkish resort, located on the Aegean coast.

Future Expansion Plans

1. Introducing Microtel by Wyndham in India

Wyndham is bringing its Microtel by Wyndham brand to India in collaboration with NILE Hospitality. The brand will debut in 2025, with plans to open 40 Microtel hotels across Tier-2, 3, and 4 cities by 2031.

2. Strengthening Presence in Portugal

Wyndham is working with The Lakhani Group to launch new hotels, including:

  • Wyndham Garden Alentejo Alcácer do Sal
  • Wyndham Residences Lisbon Loures
  • L Hotels Fátima, Trademark Collection by Wyndham
    (Opening in 2025)

3. Expanding Branded Residences Portfolio

Wyndham is set to launch multiple branded residences, including:

  • Wyndham Grand La Cala Golf Residences (Costa del Sol, Spain – April 2026)
  • Wyndham Residences Piraeus (Greece – December 2025)
  • Ramada Residences by Wyndham Halkidiki (Greece – May 2026)

The Wyndham Advantage: Technology & Rewards

Wyndham’s growth is backed by its $325 million investment in next-gen property management systems and digital innovations. With a global network of 114 million enrolled Wyndham Rewards members, the company continues to drive occupancy and revenue for its franchisees.

As international tourism demand rises in 2025, Wyndham remains focused on strategic expansion, strengthening its presence in key markets, and delivering exceptional guest experiences.


Avadh & Magadh Sugar Report Q3 & 9MFY25 Results: Mixed Performance Amid Industry Challenges

Avadh & Magadh Sugar Report Q3 & 9MFY25 Results: Mixed Performance Amid Industry Challenges

By Nishang Narayan

Published on February 16, 2025

The Board of Directors of Avadh Sugar & Energy Limited (ASEL) (BSE: 540649 / NSE: AVADHSUGAR) and Magadh Sugar & Energy Limited (MSEL) (BSE: 540650 / NSE: MAGADSUGAR) took on record the unaudited financial results for the quarter and nine months ended December 31, 2024.

Financial Highlights:

Avadh Sugar & Energy Limited (ASEL)

Q3FY25:

  • Total Income: ₹619 Cr (Q3FY24: ₹595 Cr)
  • EBITDA: ₹38 Cr (Q3FY24: ₹59 Cr)
  • PAT: ₹7 Cr (Q3FY24: ₹22 Cr)

9MFY25:

  • Total Income: ₹1,961 Cr (9MFY24: ₹2,076 Cr)
  • EBITDA: ₹131 Cr (9MFY24: ₹211 Cr)
  • PAT: ₹16 Cr (9MFY24: ₹73 Cr)

Magadh Sugar & Energy Limited (MSEL)

Q3FY25:

  • Total Income: ₹285 Cr (Q3FY24: ₹219 Cr)
  • EBITDA: ₹40 Cr (Q3FY24: ₹62 Cr)
  • PAT: ₹21 Cr (Q3FY24: ₹39 Cr)

9MFY25:

  • Total Income: ₹969 Cr (9MFY24: ₹810 Cr)
  • EBITDA: ₹97 Cr (9MFY24: ₹134 Cr)
  • PAT: ₹38 Cr (9MFY24: ₹70 Cr)

Management Commentary:

C.S. Nopany, Co-Chairperson, Avadh Sugar & Energy Ltd:

“The sugar season 2024-25 has presented a mixed outlook, with challenges such as lower cane yields and lower recovery in key states like Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Karnataka affecting production. Despite these setbacks, we remain optimistic about long-term growth. However, rising production costs and stagnant ethanol prices call for timely policy adjustments.

At Avadh, we are focused on sustainable expansion, and with the upcoming completion of our crushing enhancement at the Hargaon unit for the 2025-26 season, we expect further value creation.”

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C.S. Nopany, Chairperson, Magadh Sugar & Energy Ltd:

“The industry is facing a decline in production due to lower cane availability and recovery, along with a shift toward ethanol. Despite these challenges, our ability to adapt and invest in expansion positions us well for long-term growth.

At Magadh, we are committed to sustainability and are enhancing our crushing capacity and implementing steam-saving measures at our Narkatiaganj unit, which is now operational for the 2024-25 crushing season. With the right policy support, the sugar industry can continue to play a crucial role in India's economy.”

About Avadh Sugar & Energy Limited

  • CIN: L15122UP2015PLC069635
  • Specializes in sugar, spirits, ethanol, cogeneration, and by-products of sugar manufacturing.
  • Operates four sugar mills in Uttar Pradesh: Hargaon, Seohara, Hata, and Rosa, with a total crushing capacity of 34,800 TCD.
  • Two distilleries at Hargaon and Seohara with a combined ethanol capacity of 325 KLPD.
  • Cogeneration facility generating 74 MW power.

About Magadh Sugar & Energy Limited

  • CIN: L15122UP2015PLC069632
  • Engaged in sugar manufacturing, ethanol production, and power generation.
  • Operates three sugar mills in Bihar: Narkatiaganj, Sidhwalia, and Hasanpur, with a total crushing capacity of 21,500 TCD.
  • Two distilleries at Narkatiaganj and Sidhwalia with a combined ethanol capacity of 155 KLPD.
  • Cogeneration facility generating 38 MW power.

Sterling Holiday Resorts Reports Record-Breaking Q3 Results with Double-Digit Growth

Sterling Holiday Resorts Reports Record-Breaking Q3 Results with Double-Digit Growth

By Nishang Narayan

Published on February 7, 2025

Sterling Holiday Resorts Ltd. has announced its strongest quarter yet in Q3 FY25, marking a milestone in the company’s growth trajectory. With 18 consecutive quarters of profitability, Sterling’s performance in Q3 surpassed even its traditionally dominant Q1, thanks to strategic portfolio expansion that strengthened revenue streams beyond peak seasons.

The company reported a 12% YoY income growth, reaching ₹1,389 Mn. EBITDA increased by 14%, with a solid 38.8% EBITDA margin, while EBIT rose 13% YoY.

Expanding Horizons: Three New Resorts Launched

Sterling’s portfolio now spans 48 locations with 57 resorts, hotels, and retreats in the upper-mid to upper-upscale segments. Strengthening its footprint, the company added three new resorts in Q3:

  • Sterling Lontano Waterfront Wayanad (Kerala)
  • Sterling Brookstone Coorg (Karnataka)
  • Sterling Bagh Ranthambore (Rajasthan)

Maintaining its rapid growth pace, Sterling has launched one resort per month for the past 18 months, with several more in the pipeline.

"Sterling has witnessed its strongest-ever quarter, a testament to our brand's growing preference among customers. A surge in holiday demand, coupled with our aggressive resort expansion, has fueled this success," said Vikram Lalvani, MD & CEO, Sterling Holiday Resorts.

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Food & Beverage Sees 20% Growth

Sterling’s food and beverage division has been another strong performer, recording a 20% YoY growth. The company attributes this to its enhanced dining experiences and a diverse range of culinary offerings across its properties.

Sustainability at the Core: Sterling Sankalp Initiative

Further strengthening its commitment to sustainability, Sterling has introduced Sterling Sankalp, an ESG initiative aimed at responsible tourism. The company has implemented key measures across several resorts, including:

  • Energy Conservation: Heat pumps for optimized energy use
  • Waste Management: Organic Waste Converters for eco-friendly disposal
  • Water Sustainability: Rainwater harvesting and water recycling programs

Looking Ahead

On a year-to-date (YTD) basis, Sterling has achieved a 14% growth in income (₹3,842 Mn) and a 35% EBITDA margin, showcasing its sustained upward trajectory. With an expanding portfolio, a thriving food and beverage sector, and a strong focus on sustainability, Sterling continues to solidify its leadership in the hospitality industry.

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