Pre-Budget 2026 Expectations: Tourism & Hospitality Push for Structural Reforms to Sustain Growth

Pre-Budget 2026 Expectations: Tourism & Hospitality Push for Structural Reforms to Sustain Growth

By Author

Published on January 25, 2026

The tourism and hospitality sector currently faces a critical moment as India prepares for its Union Budget 2026. The sector which emerged as a major force for economic recovery and job creation and regional development now seeks permanent changes through structural policy reforms instead of temporary benefits. Industry leaders believe that with the right fiscal and regulatory support, tourism and hospitality can evolve from being viewed purely as a service segment to becoming a key infrastructure and growth driver for the country.

Sharing his expectations, Dinesh Yadav, Founder and MD of Fine Acers, highlights the urgent need for comprehensive policy support to match the sector’s rapid expansion, “As we approach Budget 2026, the hospitality sector is looking for structural policy support that reflects its growing economic contribution and long-term capital intensity. The industry is experiencing a significant expansion, with the projected CAGR being about 10-11%. This growth is mainly owing to the attraction of domestic tourists, the MICE sector and the swift advent of experiential travel in Tier II and III destinations. On the other hand, if the industry wants to keep the same pace, it needs a complete policy overhaul and not just short-term remedies.

One of the long-awaited measures is to give the whole hospitality industry, rather than just selected parts, the status of an infrastructure. This move would pave the way for the access of long-term and low-cost funding which is vital for the completion of the projects that have long gestation periods. Besides this, the GST reform especially concerning room rates and bundled hospitality services where the high tax rates still pose a threat to price competitiveness and thus indirectly to occupancy-led growth, is peremptory.

New forms of ownership and financing, like the sale-leaseback model, should be more clearly recognized in terms of policy. These models help developers recycle capital, improve balance sheets and attract institutional participation. Simplifying approvals granting single-window clearances and standardizing compliance procedures across states, which would lead to a significant reduction in the time and cost involved in project execution. Even more, the tourism sector, which has been the main recipient of Budget 2026, can really reposition hospitality not only as a service industry but also as one of the main infrastructure drivers of India's growth story." Yadav Added

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Govind Gaur, CEO, WanderOn

Echoing similar sentiments from the travel segment, Govind Gaur, CEO, WanderOn, underscores the importance of domestic tourism and infrastructure-led growth, “As we look ahead to the upcoming Union Budget 2026, the travel and tourism sector hopes for continued emphasis on growth, infrastructure and strengthening of consumer confidence. Domestic tourism can become the backbone of India’s tourism landscape, if the government focuses more towards increased infrastructural connectivity, expansion of airports and improving rail travel.

The industry is also looking forward to an ‘Industry status’ to travel and tourism, which would enable easier access to credit and lower financing costs. If these measures are addressed in Budget 2026, travel would become more affordable for consumers, enhancing margins and boosting the circular economy.”

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Dr Vikas Katoch, Founder and CEO, Adotrip

From a digital travel and destination discovery perspective, Dr Vikas Katoch, Founder and CEO, Adotrip, stresses the need for GST rationalisation, easier financing, and continued support for sustainable tourism initiatives, “As India’s travel industry continues with its robust recovery, we expect budget 2026 to rationalize GST for the sector. It is also important to make compliance more seamless, improve credit access so that financing can become easier. Addressing these will benefit both consumers and businesses, as travel and hospitality will become more affordable for them, businesses can get a change to innovate and grow and there will be healthy competition in the market.

The government’s further support for sustainable tourism, heritage circuits, and domestic travel promotion will be critical in diversifying demand across regions. The government has already demonstrated strong intent through sustained investments in infrastructure, destination branding, and tourism-led regional development. Building on this momentum in Budget 2026 can help India unlock significantly higher economic value, employment generation, and inclusive growth through tourism.”

Budget 2026 gives India a chance to transform its tourism and hospitality industry according to the expert opinion of industry professionals. The sector seeks reforms which will create sustainable growth through industry recognition and infrastructure status and simplified GST rules and better financing options and support for new ownership models. The upcoming budget needs strategic policy changes because domestic tourism is increasing and international interest in India is growing, which will establish tourism and hospitality as a key driver of India's economic and job growth.


Adie Broswon Breweries Enters Strategic Manufacturing Partnership with United Breweries

Adie Broswon Breweries Enters Strategic Manufacturing Partnership with United Breweries

By Hariharan U

Published on July 16, 2026

Adie Broswon Breweries (ABB), a division of The Adie Broswon Group, has entered into a long-term manufacturing arrangement with United Breweries Limited (UBL), strengthening its position as a key player in North India’s brewing and manufacturing ecosystem.

The partnership will leverage ABB’s advanced 12 million-case brewing facility, one of the largest brewing infrastructures in the region, enabling the company to support large-scale production requirements for leading beverage companies while enhancing manufacturing capabilities and operational efficiency.

Powered by German brewing technology from Ziemann, ABB’s brewery achieved its highest-ever annual production milestone of more than 5 million cases during FY2025–26. The facility operates on renewable-energy-powered systems and follows globally recognised manufacturing standards, including FSSC 22000 and QMS certifications, highlighting its commitment to quality, food safety, and sustainable operations.

The collaboration comes at a time when India’s beer industry is witnessing a shift towards more specialised manufacturing partnerships. Beverage companies are increasingly adopting strategic production arrangements to optimise regional supply chains, improve asset utilisation, and enhance production flexibility.

Large-scale breweries equipped with advanced technology, certified quality systems, and sustainable infrastructure are becoming increasingly important in supporting the growth and evolving requirements of India’s beverage sector.

The manufacturing arrangement with UBL further reinforces ABB’s capabilities as a reliable brewing partner with the scale, technology, and operational expertise required to support established beer brands across markets.

With its focus on manufacturing excellence, sustainability, and innovation, Adie Broswon Breweries continues to strengthen its role in India’s brewing ecosystem while contributing to the next phase of growth in the country’s beverage industry


Nimbus Group Reports 134.31% YoY Growth in Q1 FY27 Pre-Sales

Nimbus Group Reports 134.31% YoY Growth in Q1 FY27 Pre-Sales

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 14, 2026

Nimbus Projects Limited (Nimbus Group), one of North India's leading real estate developers, has reported strong operational performance for the first quarter of FY27, driven by robust residential demand, higher customer collections and continued progress across its project portfolio.

During Q1 FY27, the company recorded a pre-sales booking value of ₹157.36 crore, marking a 134.31% year-on-year increase from ₹67.16 crore reported in the same quarter of the previous financial year.

Customer collections also witnessed healthy growth, rising 49.75% to ₹75.91 crore from ₹50.69 crore in Q1 FY26. The company said the increase reflects stronger cash flow, sustained customer confidence and efficient project execution.

Nimbus Group attributed its quarterly performance to its disciplined execution strategy, customer-focused approach and growing presence in the rapidly developing real estate markets of Noida, Greater Noida and the Yamuna Expressway (YEIDA) region. These markets continue to benefit from major infrastructure developments, improved connectivity and rising demand from homebuyers.

Q1 FY27 Operational Highlights

Particulars

Q1 FY26

Q1 FY27

Growth

Pre-Sales Booking Value

₹67.16 crore

₹157.36 crore

134.31%

Customer Collections

₹50.69 crore

₹75.91 crore

49.75%

Commenting on the performance, Mr. Bipin Agarwal, Chairman and Managing Director, said:

"The strong growth in pre-sales reflects sustained homebuyer confidence and healthy demand across our key markets. Our focus on timely execution and a disciplined sales strategy continues to support the steady conversion of bookings into collections, strengthening our cash flow position.

Looking ahead, the NCR, particularly Noida, Greater Noida and the Yamuna Expressway (YEIDA) corridor, is witnessing unprecedented infrastructure-led transformation. The launch of Noida International Airport, Ganga Expressway, expanding metro connectivity, industrial and logistics hubs, along with the proposed Japan City and Singapore City developments, have the potential to significantly enhance the region's investment appeal and reinforce long-term demand for quality residential and mixed-use developments.

As part of our long-term growth strategy, Nimbus is expanding beyond the NCR into high-potential markets across Uttar Pradesh. We have recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the development of an integrated township project in Mathura, one of India's most revered holy cities, under the Uttar Pradesh Township Policy, 2023. We believe Mathura's growing religious tourism, improving infrastructure and increasing demand for organised real estate make it an attractive long-term growth market.

Building on this milestone, we are actively evaluating opportunities in other high-growth Tier II and Tier III cities, including Meerut, Vrindavan, Hapur, Rudrapur, Muzaffarnagar, Bareilly and Rohtak, through integrated townships and mixed-use developments. With our disciplined execution capabilities and customer-first philosophy, Nimbus is well-positioned to capitalize on these emerging opportunities while creating sustainable long-term value for our customers, investors and all stakeholders."

Looking ahead, the company plans to expand its footprint beyond the NCR by focusing on high-potential markets across Uttar Pradesh. Following the signing of an MoU for an integrated township project in Mathura under the Uttar Pradesh Township Policy, 2023, Nimbus Group is also evaluating opportunities in cities including Meerut, Vrindavan, Hapur, Rudrapur, Muzaffarnagar, Bareilly and Rohtak through integrated township and mixed-use developments.


Atelier Expressions Acquires Majority Stake in Luxury Mithai Brand Khoya

Atelier Expressions Acquires Majority Stake in Luxury Mithai Brand Khoya

By Hariharan U

Published on July 14, 2026

Atelier Expressions, the premium lifestyle platform of TVS VENU, has entered into an agreement to acquire a majority stake in Lonestar Hospitality Private Limited, the company behind New Delhi-based luxury handcrafted mithai brand Khoya. The transaction marks another milestone in Atelier Expressions' strategy of building a portfolio of premium artisanal businesses rooted in cultural heritage and craftsmanship.

The acquisition, which is subject to customary closing conditions, is expected to be completed by the end of August 2026.

Through its investment platform, Atelier Expressions partners with heritage-led businesses to help them scale while preserving their authenticity and distinctive identity. Khoya joins a growing portfolio of premium lifestyle brands that combine traditional craftsmanship with contemporary consumer appeal.

Founded in 2016 by Sid Mathur, Khoya has built a strong reputation for reimagining traditional Indian mithai for modern consumers. The brand blends premium ingredients, artisanal craftsmanship, and refined presentation to create luxury confectionery rooted in India's rich culinary traditions. Its portfolio includes handcrafted mithai, chikki, mukhwas, savoury snacks, and premium gifting collections, available through its online channels and select retail outlets in Delhi.

As part of the transaction, Sid Mathur will continue to lead the business, retaining full operational and execution responsibilities alongside his existing leadership team.

Commenting on the acquisition, Tara Venu, Executive Director of Atelier Expressions, said Khoya perfectly represents the type of business the platform seeks to support. She noted that the brand has successfully reinterpreted one of India's oldest culinary traditions for a new generation while preserving its authenticity, making it a natural addition to Atelier Expressions' expanding portfolio.

Speaking on the partnership, Sid Mathur said the investment represents an important opportunity to scale Khoya's presence across India, explore new collaborations, and strengthen its position in the premium confectionery segment. He added that Khoya was founded on the belief that Indian mithai deserves the same craftsmanship, creativity, and attention to detail as the world's finest luxury food brands, and that Atelier Expressions shares the company's long-term vision for quality-led brand building.

Before launching Khoya, Mathur played a key role in developing well-known restaurant brands including Smoke House Deli and Social during his tenure with the Impresario Group. He also founded Secret Ingredient, one of India's leading food consultancy firms, which has worked with hospitality brands and food businesses including Taj Hotels, The Oberoi, Chaayos, DLF, GMR, and Veeba.

The acquisition further expands Atelier Expressions' premium lifestyle portfolio, which already includes French Limoges porcelain house J.L. Coquet, Dubai-based restaurant Khadak, and London luxury motorcycle helmet manufacturer Hedon. Through these investments, the platform continues to focus on businesses that combine cultural heritage, exceptional craftsmanship, and long-term growth potential.

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