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By Manu Vardhan Kannan
Published on March 4, 2025
For years, online travel agencies (OTAs) have dominated the hotel booking industry, controlling pricing, customer data, and charging commissions as high as 40%. However, hotels are now reducing their reliance on OTAs and embracing direct distribution channels to regain control and build stronger guest relationships.
With the rise of new technology, evolving consumer behavior, and regulatory shifts, the hospitality industry is set to redefine its distribution model. The future of hotel bookings lies in a balanced, guest-centric approach that prioritizes direct bookings, personalization, and innovation.
Key Industry Shifts
Healthier Channel Mix
Rising OTA commissions have made direct bookings a priority.
By 2030, direct digital bookings are expected to surpass OTAs, generating over $400 billion in revenue.
Personalization & Differentiation
Travelers are seeking more customized experiences, shifting focus from generic stays to experiential travel.
AI and data analytics are enabling hyper-personalized guest journeys and targeted marketing.
Loyalty programs are evolving beyond traditional point systems to offer personalized rewards based on guest preferences.
Customer-First Approach
OTAs often prioritize hotels that pay higher commissions, which limits true consumer choice.
Regulatory measures like the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) are pushing for fairer distribution ecosystems by promoting transparency and competition.
End of Rate Parity Clauses
Legal rulings, including the EU Court of Justice decision, now allow hotels to set their own rates.
Hotels must invest in direct booking strategies using advanced pricing models and competitive technology.
Rise of Mobile Bookings
Over 50% of hotel bookings now come from mobile devices, making mobile-first design a necessity.
Previously, only OTAs and major hotel chains leveraged mobile apps, but new disruptive platforms are emerging to bridge this gap.
AI’s Role in Hotel Distribution
AI-powered tools such as chatbots, price optimization software, and personalized marketing solutions are driving direct bookings.
AI-driven platforms like D3X.ai and Allora.ai are already transforming the industry with intelligent booking systems and automated guest engagement.
The Future of Hotel Distribution
With hotels regaining control over pricing, data, and guest relationships, the industry is moving toward a more transparent, guest-friendly ecosystem. Direct booking strategies, AI-driven personalization, and mobile-first innovations will define the future of hotel distribution, ensuring a more sustainable and competitive marketplace.
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By Hariharan U
Published on October 9, 2025
Vegas Mall in Dwarka, Delhi, proved once again why it’s a favorite lifestyle destination by teaming up with PUMA to host the brand’s exclusive Nitro Run. With more than 1,000 runners taking part across 5K and 10K categories, the mall came alive with energy, enthusiasm, and a shared spirit of fitness.
The event went beyond being a race; it celebrated togetherness, wellness, and the joy of an active lifestyle. Activity zones like a Glitter Station and T-shirt distribution counters added a fun, memorable touch for participants, making it a complete community experience.
“Vegas has always envisioned itself as more than just a shopping destination – we are a hub for lifestyle, fitness, and entertainment. Hosting the PUMA Nitro Run reflects our commitment to curating experiences that bring communities together while promoting health and well-being,” said Ravinder Choudhary, Vice President, Vegas Mall.
The Nitro Run successfully combined fitness, brand engagement, and community celebration, reinforcing Vegas Mall’s position as a go-to destination for large-scale, vibrant events in Delhi NCR.
Condé Nast Traveler has revealed the winners of its annual Readers’ Choice Awards, and two standout properties have caught global attention. TIA Wellness Resort in Da Nang, Vietnam, and The Hari Hong Kong have both secured top rankings, reflecting their commitment to exceptional hospitality and wellness experiences.
TIA Wellness Resort was ranked #6 among the world’s best Destination Spa Resorts, marking another milestone after last year’s top-ten recognition. “To be recognized on the list again and to claim the number six spot is a testament to our team’s hard work and dedication in the wellness space and the growth of wellness tourism in Vietnam,” said Ramon Imper, General Manager of TIA Wellness Resort.
Located along Da Nang’s scenic coastline, TIA Wellness Resort focuses on holistic wellbeing rather than just relaxation. Guests can enjoy tailored wellness programs, inclusive treatments, and personalized retreat options. Its 22-treatment room wellness center features an adults-only waterfall pool, saunas, ice baths, exercise studios, and both indoor and outdoor relaxation areas. Guests can participate in daily breathwork, yoga, HIIT, and creativity classes, while specialized retreats like the Strength & Recovery and Creative Healing programs combine personalized training, wellness treatments, and plant-based nutrition.
Meanwhile, The Hari Hong Kong earned #3 on the list of best hotels in Hong Kong & Macau, making its first appearance on this coveted award roster. Edward E. Snoeks, General Manager of The Hari Hong Kong, noted, “Scoring one of the top spots in Hong Kong and Macau, when there’s no shortage of stunning hotels, is a testament to our high service level and the dedication of all our team.”
Strategically located between Causeway Bay and Wan Chai, The Hari Hong Kong is a 30-story architectural gem with 210 guest rooms, including three signature rooftop suites offering breathtaking city and harbor views. The hotel’s dining options include Italian ristorante Lucciola, Japanese restaurant Zoku, The Terrace bar, and The Lounge, combining cuisine, ambiance, and curated art collections to enhance the guest experience.
The 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards reflect insights from more than 757,000 survey responses from readers across the United States, making these recognitions highly respected in the global travel and hospitality industry. Both properties now join a celebrated list of award-winning destinations, drawing travelers seeking luxury, wellness, and exceptional service.
As India steps into the festive season, Chinese Wok, the country’s largest home-grown Desi Chinese quick service restaurant brand — has launched a bold new campaign that transforms everyday confusion into a craving.
Titled “Chinese Bole Toh, Chinese Wok,” the campaign humorously spotlights the common tendency to mix up the names of Chinese eateries. Each short film dramatizes these relatable slip-ups in playful, slice-of-life moments, before landing on the catchy punchline: “Chinese Bole Toh, Chinese Wok.”
The campaign aims to strengthen the brand’s recall as India’s go-to destination for Desi Chinese cravings, particularly during the country’s peak food, festival, and cricket season.
The films are being showcased across major OTT platforms, social media channels, and broadcast events, including the ongoing cricket season, ensuring high visibility among audiences nationwide.
Aayush Madhusudan Agrawal, Founder & Director, Lenexis Foodworks, said, “Over the last decade, Chinese Wok has become synonymous with how India enjoys Desi Chinese,bold flavours, youthful energy, and everyday indulgence. With this campaign, we’re not just launching an ad; we’re taking a leadership stance. ‘Chinese Bole Toh, Chinese Wok’ is a cultural hook that will define how the category is remembered and recalled for years to come.”
While the short films form the creative core, the campaign extends into influencer collaborations, AR-led in-store experiences, digital challenges, and cultural partnerships, making it a multi-platform engagement built for today’s youth-driven audiences.
Currently operating 240+ outlets across 45+ cities, Chinese Wok continues to expand rapidly, targeting 500 outlets by 2027. With this campaign, the brand reinforces its position as India’s most recognized Desi Chinese QSR — inviting the country to laugh, share, and indulge their next craving with Chinese Wok.
Watch the Campaign Films:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/DPgLFDbiahE/
Film 1: YouTube Link
Film 2: YouTube Link
Lenexis Foodworks is a leading quick service food company in India, committed to crafting exceptional dining experiences across its portfolio of brands, Chinese Wok, The Momo Co., and Big Bowl.
Founded in 2015, Chinese Wok stands as India’s largest Desi Chinese QSR brand, redefining how Chinese cuisine is enjoyed in the country through bold flavours, hygiene, and affordability. The brand operates across 240+ outlets in 45+ cities, including Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, Kolkata, Pune, and Hyderabad.
With continuous innovation and expansion, Lenexis Foodworks is set to shape India’s fast-evolving food culture with new culinary concepts and experiential formats.
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