The Art of Hospitality: Franchising vs. Contract Management in Indian Hotels

The Art of Hospitality: Franchising vs. Contract Management in Indian Hotels

By Shreenidhi Jagannathan

Published on April 2, 2024

In the vibrant world of Indian hospitality, two distinct approaches paint the success stories of hotels: franchising and contract management. Each, like contrasting brushstrokes on a canvas, contributes to the rich tapestry of the industry.

Franchising: Stepping into the Spotlight

For hoteliers seeking the warm glow of brand recognition, franchising shines brightly. Imagine a pre-established system, a beacon guiding guests towards trust and familiarity. This is the essence of a franchise. Reputable brands offer a blueprint for success, complete with established standards and operational processes. New hoteliers gain instant brand equity, a powerful tool in a competitive market. Additionally, franchisors often provide invaluable support in areas like marketing, distribution, and training. It's a tempting proposition, a path paved with golden bricks of brand recognition and support.

However, beneath the glittering facade lies a delicate dance. Franchisees must balance brand loyalty with the freedom to innovate. Adherence to strict brand guidelines ensures consistency, but can stifle creativity. Similarly, financial obligations like royalties can eat into profit margins. Franchising is a double-edged sword, offering the comfort of a well-lit path but demanding adherence to specific steps.

Contract Management: A Symphony of Individuality

On the other hand, contract management allows hoteliers to be the artists, wielding the brush of individuality. Freed from brand restrictions, they can tailor operational strategies and guest experiences to their unique vision. Imagine a hotel reflecting the owner's personality, a bespoke melody played for discerning guests. Contract management empowers hoteliers to negotiate terms with various vendors, creating a symphony of partnerships that perfectly suit their needs.

Yet, the freedom of contract management comes with its own complexities. Managing multiple contracts requires a maestro's touch. Attention to detail is paramount, as legalities and operational nuances intertwine. Additionally, hoteliers become reliant on external vendors, introducing a note of uncertainty. Disruptions in the supply chain can throw the entire operation off-key. Contract management offers a symphony of possibilities, but demands a conductor's keen eye and steady hand.

The Art of Balance: A Masterful Blend

The true artistry lies in blending these approaches. Hoteliers can leverage the strengths of each to create a masterpiece of hospitality. Embrace the brand recognition of a franchise while customizing services to reflect local flair. Utilize the flexibility of contract management to source unique amenities, creating an unforgettable guest experience.

The Indian hospitality industry is a constantly evolving canvas. True mastery lies not in rigidly adhering to one approach, but in creating a harmonious blend. Hoteliers, like skilled artists, must wield their business acumen with purpose, crafting experiences that transcend expectations and leave guests with a lasting impression. In the end, it's about creating a masterpiece of hospitality, a place where guests feel not just welcomed, but truly understood.


Karanveer Singh and Pawan Mudgal of Amritara Hotels & Resorts Win Outstanding Leadership Awards 2025

Karanveer Singh and Pawan Mudgal of Amritara Hotels & Resorts Win Outstanding Leadership Awards 2025

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 22, 2025

Amritara Hotels & Resorts’ leaders, Mr. Karanveer Singh and Mr. Pawan Mudgal, have been honored with the Outstanding Leadership Awards 2025 by MakeMyTrip. The event, hosted by MakeMyTrip in Gurgaon on 7th August 2025, recognized individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and an unwavering commitment to excellence in the hospitality industry.

The award celebrates visionary leadership, innovation, and commitment to excellence in the hospitality industry. Both leaders have played pivotal roles in driving Amritara Hotels & Resorts to new heights in customer satisfaction, revenue growth, and brand positioning.

Mr. Karanveer Singh, with his expertise in revenue management and strategic planning, has been instrumental in elevating the performance of Amritara properties, consistently ensuring top rankings in competitive markets. His innovative approach towards pricing, distribution, and customer engagement has set new benchmarks for the brand.

Mr. Pawan Mudgal, with his extensive leadership experience and sharp business acumen, has been a driving force in strengthening Amritara’s market presence. His ability to align teams with the brand’s vision and his relentless pursuit of operational excellence have contributed immensely to the group’s success.

Speaking on the recognition, the awardees expressed their gratitude to MakeMyTrip and dedicated the honor to the hard work and dedication of the Amritara Hotels & Resorts team.

"This award is not just a personal achievement, but a reflection of the collective efforts of our incredible team at Amritara Hotels & Resorts. Together, we are committed to redefining hospitality with innovation, authenticity, and exceptional guest experiences," said Mr. Singh and Mr. Mudgal in a joint statement.

The Outstanding Leadership Award 2025 reinforces Amritara Hotels & Resorts’ commitment to excellence and further strengthens its position as one of India’s leading hospitality brands.


Akasa Secures ₹1,200 Crore Investment to Fuel Global Expansion Plans

Akasa Secures ₹1,200 Crore Investment to Fuel Global Expansion Plans

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 22, 2025

Akasa, India’s youngest airline, has successfully completed a fresh investment transaction of about ₹1,200 crore, welcoming new investors such as Premji Invest, 360 ONE Asset, and the investment office of Ranjan Pai. The Jhunjhunwala family, an existing investor, also infused additional capital into the airline.

The airline, which began operations three years ago, announced that the closure of this funding round followed the receipt of all requisite regulatory approvals. Despite facing losses like most startup airlines, Akasa has ambitious plans for expansion, with a fleet of 30 aircraft currently in service and 190 Boeing 737s on order.

Akasa termed this investment a “significant milestone” in its growth journey and shared its aspiration to be among the top 30 airlines in the world by the end of this decade. The funds will be directed toward expanding operations, enhancing customer experience, and investing in safety, reliability, and advanced technology.

Vinay Dube, founder and CEO of Akasa, expressed gratitude to both new and existing investors, saying, “We warmly welcome our new investors to the Akasian family and deeply appreciate their confidence in our team. Their support affirms our vision and strengthens our ability to scale sustainably while keeping customers and employees at the heart of our operations. We remain especially grateful to the Jhunjhunwala family for not just helping us take flight but for their continued belief in our dream to redefine air travel in India.”

Manoj Jaiswal of Premji Invest highlighted the growth potential of Indian aviation, stating, “We are excited to partner with Akasa, India's fastest growing airline, in its next phase of growth. We believe Indian aviation industry has strong growth potential, domestically and beyond. Team Akasa is brilliantly positioned to execute on this opportunity.”

Umesh Agrawal, fund manager of 360 ONE Asset, added, “We are elated to partner with Akasa Air at a time when India’s aviation sector is poised for tremendous growth. This investment will support Akasa Air’s mission to build a customer centric airline.”

Shyam Powar, chief investment officer at Claypond Capital, also expressed confidence, saying, “What excites us is not just the scale of the opportunity, but the passion and purpose with which the team is building this airline. We are proud to back Akasa and look forward to supporting them in their journey to build a world class airline from India.”

Currently, Akasa serves 23 domestic and six international cities, and has flown over two crore passengers since its inception.


Nouveau Design Group Revives 700-Year-Old Fort Barwara into Six Senses Resort

Nouveau Design Group Revives 700-Year-Old Fort Barwara into Six Senses Resort

By Hariharan U

Published on August 22, 2025

Against the backdrop of the Aravalli hills, the 700-year-old Fort Barwara has found a new life as Six Senses Fort Barwara, thanks to an extraordinary restoration by Nouveau Design Group and Panika. Spearheaded by Principal Architect Manish Mehta, the project stands as a remarkable example of adaptive reuse, honouring the spirit of Rajasthan’s royal past while reimagining it for today’s world of sustainable luxury.

Originally built in the 14th century, the fort had weathered centuries of battles and time. For Mehta and his team, the mission was clear, to revive its essence, not just its structure. “The fort represented not just stone and mortar but the soul of Rajasthan’s architecture. Our responsibility was to revive its spirit”, says Mehta.

Staying true to the fort’s original character, the design preserves battlements, domes, arched walkways, and courtyards, weaving them into a modern hospitality experience. The Zanana Mahal (ladies’ quarters) now houses a serene Six Senses spa, while the Mardana Mahal (men’s quarters) has been reimagined as the lobby and bar. Across 48 suites, temples, and dining areas, guests encounter Mughal-style courtyards, jharokhas, and jalis that echo the fort’s architectural soul.

Every detail reflects authenticity, stone sourced from nearby quarries, Rajasthani marble, lime-washed walls, handmade carpets, and antique-finished fittings, all crafted to blend seamlessly with the fort’s heritage.

Sustainability anchors the project. Thick stone walls and passive cooling reduce energy needs, while rainwater harvesting, solar panels, and organic gardens align with Six Senses’ eco-conscious ethos. The resort is fully plastic-free, complemented by discreetly integrated modern comforts like fibre-optic connectivity and smart water systems.

Lighting design adds to the fort’s majesty, using warm tones to highlight its sculptural elements, while the central Mughal-style courtyard doubles as a stage for reflection and cultural performances.

“This fort was built to endure war and climate”, notes Mehta. “Our sustainability measures honour that resilience through future-ready design”.

Today, guests arrive not as conquerors but as participants in the fort’s ongoing story, a space where Rajput strength meets modern elegance. With its sensitive yet forward-thinking transformation, Six Senses Fort Barwara sets a benchmark in heritage conservation and sustainable luxury.

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