NRAI Mumbai Chapter Offers 20% “Democracy Discount” to Encourage Voter Participation

NRAI Mumbai Chapter Offers 20% “Democracy Discount” to Encourage Voter Participation

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on November 20, 2024

The National Restaurant Association of India (NRAI) Mumbai Chapter has launched a unique initiative aimed at boosting voter turnout in the upcoming general elections. In an effort to engage the city's urban voters, NRAI has introduced the "Democracy Discount," a 20% discount on dine-in bills at over 50 participating restaurants across Mumbai. This offer will be available on November 20th and 21st, 2024, for voters who can show proof of voting.

The initiative comes at a pivotal time, as Chief Election Commissioner Shri Rajiv Kumar has expressed concerns over low voter participation in urban areas and emphasized the importance of involving young voters in the election process. By offering an incentive, the NRAI hopes to motivate residents of Mumbai, particularly younger voters, to cast their ballots and make their voices heard.

Rachel Goenka, Head of the NRAI Mumbai Chapter, highlighted the importance of the initiative, saying, “This initiative by the NRAI aims to inspire our young urban voters to actively engage in the voting process, celebrating our country’s vibrant and robust democratic framework, one of the largest in the world. I extend heartfelt thanks to all the participating brands and restaurants for enthusiastically joining this cause and encouraging young voters to make the most of this unique offer.”

The 20% discount is available to dine-in customers who present a voter ID showing Mumbai residency along with an inked finger as proof of voting. Over 50 well-known restaurants in Mumbai are participating in this drive, including popular spots such as Silver Beach Cafe, Nom Nom Khar, The Sassy Spoon, Bonobo, and The Bombay Canteen. This offer provides voters with an additional incentive to visit their favorite restaurants while contributing to the democratic process.

Participating Restaurants Include:

1. Silver Beach Cafe

2. Nom Nom, Khar

3. Estella

4. Akina

5. The Sassy Spoon

6. Saz Cafe

7. Pings

8. Nksha

9. Tamak

10. Taftoon

11. Lyla

12. EVE - Powai & Worli

13. Donna deli

14. Shy

15. Bonobo

16. Jamjar Diner

17. SOCIAL - All Outlets

18. SMOKE HOUSE DELI - All Outlets

19. ⁠Lord of the Drinks

20. ⁠Not Just TAMASHA

21. ⁠GARNET

22. ⁠FLYING SAUCER

23. ⁠Steps Cafe, Bandra

24. ⁠Great Punjab, Dadar

25. ⁠Pints of Wisdom, BKC

26. ⁠Oh So Silly Khar

27. ⁠Mirchi & Mime, Powai & Thane

28. Madeira & Mime, Powai

29. Zima

30. Shawarma Factory

31. ⁠JOSHH: Indian Eat Street

32. The Clearing House

33. ⁠TAT-Vikhroli

34. ⁠Que Sera Sera-Andheri

35. ⁠Blah ! - BKC and Santacruz outlet

36. Saffron & Soy, Juhu

37. ⁠Lord Of The Drinks, Powai

38. ⁠Farzi Cafe Oberoi

39. ⁠Pa Pa Ya (all outlets)

40. ⁠Mainland China

41. ⁠Asia Kitchen by Mainland China.

42. ⁠Episode.

43. ⁠Bohoba.

44. ⁠Global Grill, Malad.

45. ⁠Gong

46.  Aegyo - Cafe & Bakehouse

47. ⁠The Bombay Canteen

48. ⁠O Pedro

49. ⁠Veronica's

50. ⁠Bombay Sweet Shop

51.  Hakkasan

52.  Yauatcha

53. Nara Thai

54. CinCin

55. Ode

56. Waarsa

With such an extensive list of participating restaurants, the initiative is expected to encourage a large number of people to vote while enjoying a meal out. This drive is part of NRAI’s ongoing efforts to promote social responsibility and community engagement.

About NRAI

Founded in 1982, the National Restaurant Association of India is the primary voice of the Indian restaurant industry, representing over 500,000 restaurants. The NRAI aims to promote and strengthen the food service sector in India, with a broad network that spans across cities and states. The organization supports its members with initiatives that enhance the growth and sustainability of the industry.


ITC Hotels Targets Overseas Expansion with Focus on Proximal Markets

ITC Hotels Targets Overseas Expansion with Focus on Proximal Markets

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on January 19, 2025

ITC Hotels Ltd, now an independent entity after its demerger from ITC Ltd, is setting its sights on international markets. The hotel chain plans to expand its presence starting with neighboring countries like Nepal and Sri Lanka, as well as West Asia, reflecting its ambition to grow from 140 to over 200 properties.

Chairman and Managing Director Sanjiv Puri highlighted the strategy:
"We have been India-centric, but we are now venturing overseas. We already operate hotels in Colombo and Nepal and have signed up for another in Nepal. Our focus is on proximal markets like West Asia and beyond, with a commitment to leveraging interesting opportunities."

A Transition to Asset-Light Growth

The demerger grants ITC Hotels operational autonomy, allowing it to adopt a more asset-light growth strategy. Currently, 45% of ITC’s 13,000 rooms are owned, while the remaining 55% are operated through management contracts. The company plans to further expand through management agreements and franchise models to increase its global footprint.

Over the past two years, ITC Hotels has opened 26 properties and introduced two new brands - Mementos by ITC for luxury leisure destinations and Storii for boutique leisure properties. This complements its existing portfolio of brands, which includes ITC Hotels, Welcomhotel, Fortune, and WelcomHeritage

Sustainability at the Core

ITC Hotels stands out with its unwavering commitment to sustainability. The chain boasts impressive achievements such as:

  • Emissions levels below Paris 2030 Agreement targets.

  • The world’s first 12 LEED-certified net-zero carbon hotels.

  • The world’s first five net-zero water hotels.

"Consumers increasingly prefer greener products and services. Our sustainability credentials and iconic service standards, including globally acknowledged cuisine, position us strongly in the competitive market," Puri emphasized.

Expanding a Unique Legacy

ITC Hotels’ focus on its green initiatives and distinctive culinary offerings, like the famed Bukhara restaurant at ITC Maurya, continues to attract global dignitaries and travelers. These differentiators, combined with its asset-light model and international expansion, align with the company’s vision of creating a more upscale and diverse portfolio.

With an ambitious goal of reaching 200 properties and a renewed focus on upper-upscale segments, ITC Hotels is poised to redefine its legacy, both in India and globally.

For more updates, visit ITC Hotels.


Roseate Hotels & Resorts CEO Kush Kapoor Welcomes Budget 2025 Provisions for Hospitality

Roseate Hotels & Resorts CEO Kush Kapoor Welcomes Budget 2025 Provisions for Hospitality

By Nishang Narayan

Published on January 19, 2025

Kush Kapoor, CEO of Roseate Hotels & Resorts, has shared his insights on Budget 2025, emphasizing its potential to enhance the hospitality sector and elevate guest experiences.

“The Budget 2025 includes initiatives that are poised to indirectly benefit the hospitality sector and enhance the overall guest experience. One of the standout measures is the provision of stipend for interns under government funding, which will play a crucial role in attracting fresh talent and strengthening our workforce. We anticipate that it will significantly improve our recruitment efforts and foster a skilled and dynamic team,” he said.

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Highlighting the government’s commitment to supporting farmers, Kapoor applauded the emphasis on sustainable practices and natural farming. “This is a welcomed step that will improve the quality and availability of fresh, sustainable produce. With an increasing focus on personalized guest experiences, this aligns perfectly with the growing demand for organic, locally-sourced ingredients. It enables us to craft exceptional, bespoke culinary experiences for our guests while maintaining high standards across our supply chain,” he added.

On taxation policies, Kapoor expressed optimism about a leaner structure, stating that streamlined tax policies could improve profitability and operations. He also commented on the provision of a set salary for first-time employees, noting that while its application to the hospitality sector remains unclear, such initiatives would undoubtedly enhance recruitment efforts.

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Kapoor concluded by emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices and workforce development for the hospitality sector in 2025. “The Budget’s focus on these areas, along with potential tax incentives, will undoubtedly play a significant role in helping us elevate the guest experience at Roseate Hotels and Resorts,” he affirmed.

As the hospitality industry gears up for another year of growth and innovation, the provisions outlined in Budget 2025 are set to create new opportunities for workforce development, sustainable sourcing, and operational efficiency.


Radisson Blu Palace Resort & Spa, Udaipur, Surpasses Historic INR 100 Crore Revenue Mark

Radisson Blu Palace Resort & Spa, Udaipur, Surpasses Historic INR 100 Crore Revenue Mark

By Nishang Narayan

Published on January 18, 2025

Radisson Blu Palace Resort & Spa, Udaipur, a beacon of luxury and elegance, has achieved a significant milestone by crossing the INR 100 crore revenue mark in 2024. This historic achievement underscores the resort’s growing reputation as a premier destination for luxury experiences and highlights its strategic focus on maximizing revenue streams.

Driving Forces Behind the Success

A key contributor to this achievement was the luxury wedding segment, which recorded a 24% growth compared to the previous year. The property’s strategic renovations, including enhanced banquet halls and guest facilities, along with its personalized services, cemented its position as a trusted venue for grand celebrations. In 2024 alone, Radisson Blu Udaipur hosted 75 weddings, showcasing its growing appeal for premium destination weddings.

Mr. Somesh Agarwal, Chairman and MD, expressed pride in this accomplishment, stating:
"Crossing the INR 100 crore revenue milestone is a historic achievement for Radisson Blu Udaipur Palace Resort & Spa, marking a significant chapter in our journey. This success reflects the relentless dedication and hard work of our outstanding team, led by Vice President Mahesh Singh Jasrotia. It also stands as a testament to our patrons' unwavering trust and support. Together, we look forward to setting new benchmarks in luxury hospitality and creating unforgettable experiences for our guests."

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Looking Ahead: Expansions and Innovations

Radisson Blu Udaipur has ambitious plans to expand its offerings, including:

  • Adding 100 rooms to the existing inventory to cater to the growing demand.
  • Tech-driven innovations, such as:
    • AR and VR tools to offer immersive experiences for event planning and tours.
    • AI integration to streamline operations, from vendor selection to guest management.
  • Comprehensive destination wedding packages combining travel, accommodation, and personalized services to meet the unique preferences of couples.

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About Radisson Blu Palace Resort & Spa, Udaipur

Nestled amidst eight acres of scenic beauty, Radisson Blu Palace Resort & Spa, Udaipur, offers 244 elegantly designed rooms with stunning views of Fateh Sagar Lake and the Aravalli Range. Renowned for its premium event spaces and proximity to Udaipur’s cultural landmarks, the resort blends modern luxury with timeless hospitality, making it a top choice for unforgettable celebrations and getaways.

Radisson Blu Udaipur’s remarkable revenue milestone highlights its unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation in the hospitality industry, setting new benchmarks for luxury experiences in India.

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