Marriott International Expands in Japan Through Strategic Partnership with HMI Hotel Group

Marriott International Expands in Japan Through Strategic Partnership with HMI Hotel Group

By Nishang Narayan

Published on April 22, 2024

Marriott International has announced a significant expansion in Japan by entering into a strategic partnership with HMI Hotel Group. This collaboration involves rebranding seven HMI properties across five sought-after Japanese destinations—Hamamatsu, Kyoto, Kobe, Okinawa, and Kitakyushu—under the renowned Marriott Hotels and Courtyard by Marriott brands.

This move is part of Marriott's broader strategy to enhance its footprint in the Asia Pacific region, leveraging the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of these locations to attract a growing number of visitors. The rebranded properties are strategically positioned in areas known for their high tourist demand, promising to offer guests the exceptional service and heritage associated with Marriott's global brand.

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Rajeev Menon, President of Asia Pacific excluding China at Marriott International, emphasized the importance of conversions in driving the company's global growth. "We are excited to work with HMI Hotel Group on this significant venture in Japan," Menon said. "As consumer preferences continue to evolve, these properties will greatly benefit from the strength of affiliation with Marriott’s expansive portfolio."

On the other side of the partnership, HMI Hotel Group is set to leverage Marriott's extensive hospitality expertise to revitalize its offerings and introduce innovative services tailored to modern travelers. Ryuko Hira, President of HMI Hotel Group, highlighted the expected benefits of the collaboration. "By aligning with Marriott International, we aim to redefine excellence in guest service and unlock growth opportunities in key markets," Hira stated.

This agreement not only signifies a robust growth path for Marriott International in Japan but also helps HMI Hotel Group to elevate its properties to meet international standards, thus ensuring both brands benefit from their combined strengths in this dynamic market.


IHCL to Debut Ginger Hotel in Kanpur with 100 Keys

IHCL to Debut Ginger Hotel in Kanpur with 100 Keys

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 2, 2025

The Indian Hotels Company (IHCL) has announced the signing of a new Ginger hotel in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, reinforcing its strategy to expand in India’s growing commercial centres. This greenfield project will be developed in collaboration with JK Urbanscapes Developers Limited, marking a continued partnership between the two groups.

Strategically located on Kalpi Road, near the Kamala Cricket Club, the 100-key Ginger Kanpur promises excellent connectivity to key business and leisure districts, making it well-suited for both corporate travellers and tourists visiting the city.

"Kanpur is a prominent manufacturing and commercial hub in Uttar Pradesh, making it an ideal location for Ginger’s offering. This signing is part of our strategy to build Ginger’s presence in such emerging cities," said Deepika Rao, Executive Vice President, New Businesses and Hotel Openings, IHCL. "We are delighted to extend our partnership with JK Urbanscapes Developers Limited."

The hotel will feature Ginger’s signature Qmin, a vibrant bar, meeting facilities, and a fitness centre — offering a seamless blend of work and leisure for its guests.

Maneesh Mansingka, CEO of JK Urbanscapes Developers Limited, added, "We are happy to continue our partnership with IHCL. Our projects with the company will contribute to Kanpur’s hospitality landscape."

With this signing, IHCL now has 34 hotels across Uttar Pradesh, including 21 under various stages of development, underscoring its robust commitment to the state’s hospitality growth.

JK Urbanscapes Developers Limited is part of the historic JK Singhania family business, whose legacy spans over 140 years with interests in sectors like cement, paper, tyres, defence, chemicals, healthcare, education, retail, and IT. The group’s real estate arm, originally incorporated as JK Cotton Ltd. in 1924, continues to play a key role in shaping urban infrastructure.

The new Ginger hotel is set to contribute significantly to Kanpur’s evolving hospitality landscape, catering to the dynamic needs of the city’s growing commercial and leisure segments.


Radisson Hotel Group Debuts Radisson Individuals Property Near Statue of Unity

Radisson Hotel Group Debuts Radisson Individuals Property Near Statue of Unity

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 2, 2025

Radisson Hotel Group (RHG) has expanded its presence in Gujarat with the opening of D Square Statue of Unity Kevadia, a member of Radisson Individuals, strategically situated in Ekta Nagar. Nestled in the picturesque Narmada district, this hotel blends local charm with contemporary hospitality, serving as a gateway to one of India’s most iconic tourist destinations.

Located close to the Statue of Unity, the world’s tallest statue, the hotel also offers convenient access to attractions like Ekta Mall, Jungle Safari, Children Nutrition Park, and the Narmada riverfront. Its proximity to Ekta Nagar Railway Station enhances accessibility for both domestic and international travellers. Select rooms even feature panoramic views of the Statue of Unity, the lush valley, and the upcoming Tribal Museum, making it an exceptional base to explore the region.

"With the opening of D Square Statue of Unity Kevadia, we further strengthen our footprint in Gujarat, one of India’s fastest-growing tourism corridors," said Nikhil Sharma, Managing Director and COO, South Asia, Radisson Hotel Group. "We remain aligned with the government’s vision of transforming Ekta Nagar into a model tourism and smart city destination. Our hotel stands as a testament to high-quality hospitality that complements the area’s cultural and sustainable growth."

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The hotel houses 91 tastefully designed rooms, blending warm aesthetics with modern amenities to create a comfortable retreat. Guests can indulge in flavourful vegetarian fare at Sankalp All Day Dining Restaurant, known for its signature service and refined dishes. For celebrations and business gatherings, the hotel offers versatile event spaces — the Silver Pavilion, perfect for weddings and conferences, and Sapphire, suited for intimate meetings or private events.

Shivalik Goenka, Co-owner of D Square Statue of Unity Kevadia, noted, "The hotel is a tribute to Gujarat’s spirit — rooted in culture, driven by progress. We aim to deliver experiences that are both meaningful and memorable."

Adding to this, Fakruddin Khan, General Manager, shared, "Our focus is on offering a warm, welcoming experience that beautifully marries comfort, service, and the natural splendour of Ekta Nagar. We’re excited to host guests from across India and beyond."

With this opening, Radisson Hotel Group continues to invest in India’s emerging leisure destinations, reinforcing its commitment to offer high-quality stays that celebrate local heritage and drive sustainable tourism.


Hilton Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Caps Off Green Month with Tree-Planting Drive

Hilton Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Caps Off Green Month with Tree-Planting Drive

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 2, 2025

Hilton Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park wrapped up its month-long third anniversary celebrations on a green note by hosting a special tree-planting drive in partnership with SayTrees Environmental Trust. The event saw 17 Heads of Department (HODs) from the hotel roll up their sleeves and plant saplings at the Rail Wheel Factory in North Bengaluru, underlining the hotel’s deep-rooted commitment to sustainability and community.

This drive marked the culmination of the hotel’s unique anniversary initiative — the “Book a Room, Plant a Tree” campaign, launched in May. As part of this initiative, a tree was planted in the guest’s name for every room booked, turning each stay into a living tribute.

"This final planting is a celebration of purpose," said Manish Garg, General Manager, Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park. "We began the month by planting trees with our guests. Today, our leadership team joined hands to reinforce our pledge — that hospitality can and should leave the world better than we found it."

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So far, around 2,000 trees have been planted, each geotagged and cared for by local farmers to ensure a survival rate of over 90%. Guests can even track their tree via a digital dashboard, adding a personal, lasting touch to their stay. This model doesn’t just help the planet — it also supports farmer livelihoods, making the impact both ecological and social.

Sustainability is woven into the fabric of Hilton Bengaluru Embassy Manyata’s daily operations. With over 98% of its energy sourced from renewables, a solar-powered system heating 15,000 litres of water daily, and an in-house glass bottling plant eliminating 2,500 plastic bottles each day, the hotel is setting benchmarks in responsible luxury. Its guest rooms are free of single-use plastics, featuring reusable mugs and refillable dispensers instead — small details that add up to big change.

Opened in 2022, Hilton Bengaluru Embassy Manyata has quickly emerged as a go-to address for business travellers in North Bengaluru, offering 60,000 sq. ft. of flexible event space and world-class amenities. As one of South India’s largest dual-brand properties, it continues to redefine what sustainable hospitality can look like.

While this campaign may have wrapped up, its impact will keep growing — tree by tree, guest by guest.

For bookings and more information, call +91 8069012345 / +91 8069112345.

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