OYO Faces Rising Turmoil: Layoffs, Legal Troubles, and Hotelier Backlash

OYO Faces Rising Turmoil: Layoffs, Legal Troubles, and Hotelier Backlash

By Nishang Narayan

Published on December 26, 2024

The troubles for OYO, one of India’s most prominent unicorn startups, continue to escalate. According to an Economic Times report, the company plans to lay off 2,000 employees by the end of January as part of its cost-cutting measures, which also include automation of processes. While OYO touts itself as one of the “best places to work,” the planned layoffs come amidst mounting internal and external challenges.

An OYO spokesperson stated, “OYO continuously tracks performances of individuals, and depending on the results and the individual’s interests, we may replace some candidates after giving them the opportunity to go through a performance improvement programme.” However, layoffs are just one part of the growing crisis the company faces.

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Backlash from Hotel Owners

OYO’s problems extend beyond its workforce. The startup is under fire from hotel owners across various markets for unpaid dues and unfavorable contract terms. In India, the dissatisfaction has even led to legal action. Recently, a Bengaluru hotelier filed a cheating case against OYO founder Ritesh Agarwal and six others, alleging non-payment of INR 7 lakh per month since May 2019.

Globally, similar issues persist. In the United States, hotel owners have raised concerns about OYO’s partner management system, citing its inefficiency and failure to meet payment commitments. In Japan, Yahoo terminated its partnership with OYO due to increasing complaints from hotel owners. Even in China, where OYO claims to be one of the largest hotel chains, property owners report receiving lower payments than initially promised.

Regulatory Scrutiny

Adding to its woes, OYO is also under investigation by the Competition Commission of India (CCI). The probe focuses on a commercial agreement between OYO and MakeMyTrip, examining whether the partnership creates an unfair dominant position in the market.

Global Troubles Continue

The startup’s ambitious expansion into the US market has not been smooth, with several hotel owners expressing dissatisfaction with OYO’s operations. The issues of unpaid dues and operational inefficiencies seem to mirror the problems reported in other markets.

Despite these challenges, OYO continues to assert its commitment to growth and operational excellence. However, the growing dissent from hotel owners, legal battles, and regulatory scrutiny highlight a critical need for the company to address its operational inefficiencies and rebuild trust with its partners.

With these mounting issues, the road ahead for OYO appears increasingly complex. Will the unicorn be able to navigate these turbulent waters, or is its ambitious expansion strategy taking a toll on its foundational stability?


Fodor’s Names Banyan Tree Krabi Among the World’s 100 Finest Hotels

Fodor’s Names Banyan Tree Krabi Among the World’s 100 Finest Hotels

By Hariharan U

Published on November 7, 2025

Banyan Tree Krabi has been named among the “Fodor’s Finest Hotels 2026”, an annual list recognizing the 100 most exceptional hotels and resorts in the world. Among just 15 properties across Asia, Banyan Tree Krabi proudly stands as the only hotel in Thailand to earn this coveted distinction.

In announcing the list, Fodor’s, one of the world’s most trusted travel authorities since 1949, emphasized that every property was thoroughly vetted by its team of editors and writers through a “brutal and fastidious” selection process.

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Rachael Levitt, Managing Editor at Fodor’s, praised the resort’s philosophy where “sustainability goes hand in hand with comfort and luxury.” “Thailand is famous for its hospitality, and the team here is exceptional,” she noted. “Local cold-press coffee highlights an emerging Thai industry, and the resort’s gallery promotes locally crafted artisan goods. The restaurants — Saffron, The Naga Kitchen, and Bird’s Nest — celebrate regional delicacies and Southeast Asian fusion in a stunning natural setting.”

Nestled along tranquil Tubkaek Beach, approximately 40 km from Krabi International Airport, Banyan Tree Krabi offers a serene escape framed by limestone cliffs, the Andaman Sea, and lush tropical hillside — an environment Fodor’s described as “where nature’s rhythm meets refined design.”

Ms. Haruethai Maneerat, General Manager of Banyan Tree Krabi, expressed pride in the global recognition, “To be selected by Fodor’s as one of the 100 best hotels in the world for 2026 is a great honour. This award reflects our team’s dedication to excellence and the Banyan Tree brand’s enduring commitment to sustainability and service.”

A cornerstone of Banyan Tree Krabi’s success is its comprehensive sustainability programme, led by marine biologist Ms. Thepsuda Loyjiw, the resort’s Sustainability Manager. The initiative focuses on reducing consumption, promoting eco-friendly operations, and fostering community partnerships.

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Among its standout efforts is “Souvenirs from the Sea”, a collaboration with local artisans who transform beach refuse into upcycled souvenirs such as tote bags, sold at the resort’s Banyan Tree Gallery Krabi.

This latest recognition follows Banyan Tree Krabi’s Two Keys rating by MICHELIN in its 2025 evaluation of Thailand’s finest hotels, cementing its reputation as one of the country’s leading luxury resorts.

About Banyan Tree Krabi

Banyan Tree Krabi features 72 pool suites and villas, including expansive two- and three-bedroom options, and a seven-bedroom Presidential Beachfront Pool Villa. The resort’s facilities include:

  • Two signature restaurants and a beach bar

  • A rainforest-themed spa

  • A beach club, kids’ club, fitness centre, and meeting space

About Banyan Tree 

Banyan Tree (www.banyantree.com) offers sanctuaries to rejuvenate the mind, body, and soul in awe-inspiring destinations worldwide. Known for its all-villa concept and private pool experiences, Banyan Tree redefines luxury with authenticity, mindfulness, and service excellence.

About Banyan Group

Banyan Group (SGX: B58) is a global, purpose-driven hospitality company with over 70 hotels and resorts, 60 spas and galleries, and 14 branded residences across 20 countries. Through its ethos of “Embracing the Environment, Empowering People,” the Group continues to champion responsible and regenerative tourism, blending design-led innovation with a commitment to people and the planet.


Hyatt Regency Ludhiana Unveils DIUM — A Rooftop Dining Destination Redefining the City’s Culinary Scene

Hyatt Regency Ludhiana Unveils DIUM — A Rooftop Dining Destination Redefining the City’s Culinary Scene

By Hariharan U

Published on November 7, 2025

Hyatt Regency Ludhiana has officially introduced DIUM, the city’s newest rooftop dining destination, blending elegant ambiance, elevated views, and exquisite Mediterranean flavours.

Perched atop the hotel, DIUM brings a fresh energy to Ludhiana’s dining and nightlife scene. With its open-air design, curated menu, and handcrafted cocktails, it promises an experience that’s as refined as it is relaxed.

“At DIUM, we wanted to create more than just a restaurant, we wanted to give Ludhiana an experience,” said Mr. Syed Zulfiqar Ali, General Manager, Hyatt Regency Ludhiana. “From the food and drinks to the ambiance, everything has been thoughtfully designed to bring people together in a space that feels both exclusive and welcoming.”

DIUM’s menu highlights Mediterranean-inspired dishes presented with a modern twist, paired with a premium collection of wines, spirits, and signature cocktails. Whether it’s an intimate dinner or a lively evening with friends, the venue offers the perfect setting, complete with panoramic city views and sophisticated interiors.

With its warm lighting, stylish décor, and contemporary music, DIUM brings together the best of fine dining and nightlife — creating a new social hotspot for Ludhiana’s culinary enthusiasts and travellers alike.

Opening Highlights:

  • Location: Rooftop, Hyatt Regency Ludhiana, Site No. 4, Ferozepur Road, Ludhiana

  • Concept: Exclusive rooftop dining featuring Mediterranean cuisine, crafted cocktails, and city views

  • Ambience: Modern, elegant, and ideal for both intimate gatherings and vibrant evenings

  • Signature Experience: A curated rooftop menu paired with panoramic views of Ludhiana

About DIUM:

Located atop Hyatt Regency Ludhiana, DIUM is a premium rooftop restaurant offering an exceptional blend of flavour, design, and atmosphere. Focused on Mediterranean-inspired dishes and artisanal beverages, it’s set to become the city’s go-to destination for memorable evenings and elevated dining experiences.


Riverside Reopens at The St. Regis Goa Resort- A Reimagined Pan-Asian Dining Experience

Riverside Reopens at The St. Regis Goa Resort-  A Reimagined Pan-Asian Dining Experience

By Hariharan U

Published on November 6, 2025

The St. Regis Goa Resort proudly announces the reopening of Riverside, its signature Pan-Asian restaurant gracefully situated along the tranquil banks of the River Sal. Reimagined with an elevated aesthetic and a renewed culinary vision, Riverside invites guests to rediscover the harmony between nature, flavour, and understated luxury.

Reflecting the charm of sunlit afternoons and starlit evenings, the redefined Riverside celebrates the rich diversity of Asian gastronomy. The restaurant’s refreshed interiors exude sophistication through warm textures, natural elements, and subtle elegance, creating the perfect backdrop for leisurely riverside dining.

Guests can savour panoramic river views from the breezy patio or immerse themselves in the energy of the open kitchen, where chefs craft vibrant dishes inspired by the street markets of Southeast Asia. Each creation blends authenticity with modern artistry, showcasing a thoughtful balance of taste, texture, and aroma.

From soulful curries to wok-tossed delicacies, every plate at Riverside narrates a story of cultural connection and culinary refinement. The ambiance, enriched by the gentle flow of the River Sal, captures the spirit of The St. Regis experience, timeless, elegant, and distinctly memorable.

With its refined flavours, captivating design, and serene riverside setting, Riverside at The St. Regis Goa Resort promises an extraordinary dining experience where every meal becomes a moment to savour.

Timings: 12:30 PM – 5:00 PM | 7:00 PM – 10:30 PM
Closed on Mondays

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