Rising OTA Commissions Push Hotels Toward Direct Bookings

Rising OTA Commissions Push Hotels Toward Direct Bookings

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.


Bharti Real Estate Launches World St. at Aerocity, New Delhi

Bharti Real Estate Launches World St. at Aerocity, New Delhi

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 5, 2026

Bharti Real Estate, the real estate arm of Bharti Enterprises, has unveiled World St. at Worldmark in Aerocity, New Delhi. Positioned as “The Social Spine of Worldmark,” the new development brings together dining, leisure and lifestyle experiences in a vibrant, walkable setting.

Spread across nearly half a kilometre and connecting Worldmark 4, 5 and 6, World St. covers around 2,60,000 sq. ft. of gross leasable area. The pedestrian-friendly promenade is designed to offer a mix of global cuisines, alfresco dining spaces, green courtyards, art installations and thoughtfully designed street elements. It aims to create a lively environment where work, culture and social life come together in one place.

The destination is set to become a key attraction in Aerocity, offering everything from cafés and patisseries to fine dining restaurants and bars. With its design and curated experiences, World St. is envisioned as one of India’s most engaging dining and lifestyle hubs.

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Adding to its appeal, the project will host the India debut of well-known global brands. Olive Garden, the popular American-Italian casual dining chain owned by Darden Restaurants, is set to open soon at World St. Time Out Market, known globally for its food and cultural experiences, will also launch its first India outlet here. The space will span 24,500 sq. ft. and include 11 kitchens, two full-service bars, a private event area, a live performance stage and seating for over 500 guests.

Speaking about the launch, SK Sayal, MD & CEO, Bharti Real Estate, said, “Worldmark, Aerocity is already home to some of India's finest F&B names. With World St. at Worldmark, we are raising the bar creating a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly spine that brings together a thoughtfully curated mix of global and premium offerings. World St. is not just for our office community, but for every traveller, food lover, and city dweller. It is the social heartbeat of India's Global Business District.”

Bharti Real Estate continues to play a major role in shaping Aerocity as a leading business and lifestyle destination through its Worldmark portfolio. Spread across approximately 17 million sq. ft., the development is being delivered in phases. Worldmark 1.0 is fully operational and houses Fortune 500 companies and global financial institutions. Worldmark 2.0, covering around 7 million sq. ft., is under advanced development with premium office spaces already delivered and more in progress, along with a large retail component planned for the future. Worldmark 3.0 is also under development, while Worldmark 4.0 is planned as a future expansion over the next few years.

With the launch of World St., Bharti Real Estate is set to further strengthen Aerocity’s position as a modern hub that blends business, hospitality and lifestyle experiences.


Dollar Industries Founder Shri Dindayal Gupta Passes Away, Marking End of an Era

Dollar Industries Founder Shri Dindayal Gupta Passes Away, Marking End of an Era

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 4, 2026

Renowned industrialist and Founder & Chairman Emeritus of Dollar Industries Limited, Shri Dindayal Gupta, passed away today in Kolkata due to age-related ailments. His passing marks the end of a significant chapter not only for the company but also for India’s hosiery and apparel industry.

A visionary who shaped the company’s growth for more than five decades, Shri Gupta led Dollar Industries Limited with strong commitment and clarity. What began as a modest venture eventually grew into one of India’s leading hosiery and apparel brands, with the company expanding into a Rs 1700+ crore conglomerate under his leadership.

Born on 13th September, 1937, in Manheru village in Haryana’s Bhiwani district, Shri Gupta came from a humble background. Despite limited resources, he built his journey with determination and a clear vision. In 1962, he moved to Kolkata (then known as Calcutta), where he began manufacturing and selling hosiery products designed to suit customers’ budgets and needs. He focused on building manufacturing and finishing facilities while also creating a strong retail and distribution network, including markets that were often overlooked by others.

Driven by a desire to build something meaningful, he laid the foundation of Dollar Industries Limited in 1972. Over time, the brand became a trusted household name known for quality and innovation. Dollar was also among the early companies to expand into underserved regions such as Madhya Pradesh (now MP & Chhattisgarh), the Seven Sisters of North East India, and hill regions like Darjeeling in the eastern Himalayas.

Beyond his business achievements, Shri Gupta remained deeply involved in social and community initiatives. He was actively associated with the Arya Pratinidhi Sabha and held key roles within the Bengal Pratinidhi Sabha. He also served as the former Vice-President of Sarvadeshik Arya Pratinidhi Sabha and contributed to Paropakarini Sabha of Ajmer, known for preserving the legacy of Swami Dayanand Saraswati. In Kolkata, he also initiated the Burns unit and related infrastructure at the Marwari Relief Society.

His contributions to education were equally notable. Shri Gupta was the Founding Father of Haryana Vidya Mandir, a CBSE school in Bidhannagar, North 24-Parganas, West Bengal. He supported Gurukuls as a co-founder and sponsor, and also played a key role in reviving the school in his native village, Manheru. His efforts reflected a strong belief that access to education is essential for social progress and national development.

He also supported organisations working in elderly care, including Maharshi Dayanand Yogashram Tripura and Sukhanand Foundation, leaving a lasting impact beyond the business world.

Over the years, Shri Gupta received several recognitions for his contributions, including the Lifetime Achievement Award from the West Bengal Hosiery Association and the Sanmarg Business Award.

Shri Dindayal Gupta is survived by his wife, four sons, and grandchildren, who continue to lead and grow the Dollar Industries business legacy.


IHCL Signs Amã Stays & Trails Bungalows in Port Blair

IHCL Signs Amã Stays & Trails Bungalows in Port Blair

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 4, 2026

amã Stays & Trails, the premium homestay offering from Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), has announced the signing of a new cluster of bungalows in Port Blair, marking its entry into the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Mr. Puneet Chhatwal, Managing Director and CEO, IHCL, said, “As travel preferences continue to evolve towards experience-led stays, the homestay segment has emerged as a strong driver of growth. With a portfolio of over 370 bungalows across India, the expansion of amã Stays & Trails to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, marks the brand’s foray into the island destination reflecting our focus on building a diversified presence across leisure destinations. We are delighted to partner with Mr. Abhishek Singh for this project.”

The upcoming amã Stays & Trails, Port Blair will feature ten bungalows set in lush green surroundings, located within walking distance from Manjery beach. The property will include a restaurant along with a range of amenities such as a fully equipped gym, spa, meditation and yoga decks, and a swimming pool. Guests will also have the opportunity to explore activities like snorkelling in clear waters and experiencing the region’s unique colonial and tribal heritage.

Known for offering stays that reflect local culture and heritage, amã Stays & Trails continues to expand its presence across scenic destinations in India. The portfolio already includes over 370 bungalows across locations such as Goa, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Karnataka, Kerala, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Pondicherry, and Sikkim, among others.

Mr. Abhishek Singh, Founder & Chairman, Terra Rex Realty and Terra Rex Energy, said, “Port Blair, a historic town and the gateway to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, offers travelers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. We are delighted to collaborate with IHCL’s amã Stays & Trails on this project to bring these experiences to life for our guests.”

Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, is known for its scenic beaches such as Chidiya Tapu and landmarks like the Cellular Jail, offering visitors a mix of natural beauty and historical significance.

With this signing, IHCL continues to strengthen its presence in leisure destinations, while expanding its homestay portfolio to meet the rising demand for experience-driven travel.

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