Trendwatch: The Top Hospitality Leadership Trends Shaping the Industry's Future

Trendwatch: The Top Hospitality Leadership Trends Shaping the Industry's Future

By Author

Published on July 21, 2024

The hospitality industry is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by shifting consumer behaviors, technological advancements, and evolving leadership strategies. As we navigate this new landscape, it's essential for hospitality leaders to stay informed about the trends shaping the industry's future.

Sustainable leadership is a top trend, with hospitality leaders prioritizing eco-friendly practices, reducing carbon footprints, and promoting responsible tourism. This shift is driven by increasing concerns about climate change and environmental sustainability. Sustainable leadership is no longer a nicety but a necessity, and leaders must embed environmentally conscious practices into their operations.

Digital transformation is another key trend, with the pandemic accelerating the adoption of digital technologies in hospitality. Leaders must continue to invest in digital infrastructure, enhance cybersecurity, and leverage data analytics to drive business decisions. From contactless check-in to AI-powered customer service, digital technologies are revolutionizing the guest experience and improving operational efficiency.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives are also becoming integral to leadership strategies. Hospitality leaders recognize the importance of creating inclusive environments for guests and employees alike, and are implementing diversity training, bias reduction, and equal opportunities programs. By fostering a culture of inclusivity, leaders can drive innovation, improve employee engagement, and enhance the guest experience.

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Employee well-being and mental health are also gaining attention as leaders recognise the industry's high-stress levels and burnout rates. Initiatives like mindfulness programs, mental health support, and work-life balance are essential for talent retention and productivity. By prioritizing employee well-being, leaders can create a positive work culture and improve overall business performance.

Personalized experiences are becoming the new standard, with guests expecting tailored experiences that meet their unique needs and preferences. Leaders are leveraging data and technology to craft bespoke experiences, from curated local experiences to personalized amenities. By putting the guest at the center of their strategy, leaders can drive loyalty, increase revenue, and enhance their brand reputation.

Finally, strategic partnerships and collaborations are becoming increasingly popular as leaders seek to drive growth, improve efficiency, and enhance customer offerings. Collaborations with tech startups, wellness providers, and local businesses can help leaders stay ahead of the curve and drive innovation. By understanding and embracing these trends, hospitality leaders can position their businesses for success and shape the future of the industry.

By: Aman Chainani, Managing Director of Pacific Hospitality

 


Sanskriti University Hosts Special Convocation for 35 International Graduates

Sanskriti University Hosts Special Convocation for 35 International Graduates

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 12, 2025

In a heartfelt celebration of academic excellence and cultural unity, Sanskriti University, Mathura, hosted a grand convocation ceremony exclusively for its international students. The event reflected the university’s strong commitment to global education, diversity, and inclusive growth.

The ceremony began with the arrival of the Academic Procession, followed by the national anthem, lamp lighting, and Saraswati Vandana, setting a dignified and traditional tone.

Dr. Rainu Gupta, Dean of Academics, welcomed the gathering with warm words:

“Today is not only a moment of pride for our international students but also for Sanskriti University. Their dedication and academic perseverance serve as a beacon of inspiration.”

Dr. Sachin Gupta, Chancellor of Sanskriti University, officially opened the convocation and remarked:

“Our international students are ambassadors of knowledge, culture, and values. They embody the mission of Sanskriti University and will contribute meaningfully to their societies.”

A total of 35 students from countries such as Namibia, Myanmar, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Ghana, and Sudan received their academic degrees across disciplines like Engineering, Management, Basic Sciences, and Nursing.

The event was graced by Mr. R.N. Trivedi, Registrar of Sanskriti University, alongside senior deans and faculty members. Their presence reinforced the collective effort behind the academic journey of these students.

This special convocation was more than a formal ceremony, it was a powerful symbol of education without borders. With graduates from diverse cultures, languages, and backgrounds, the event sent a strong message of unity, knowledge-sharing, and peaceful progress.

Sanskriti University continues to emerge as a hub of globally relevant education, nurturing students who will go on to make meaningful contributions across the world.


Evoke Experiences Announces Rann Utsav 2025 – The Tent City, Embracing Culture, Sustainability and Expansion

Evoke Experiences Announces Rann Utsav 2025 – The Tent City, Embracing Culture, Sustainability and Expansion

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 12, 2025

Evoke Experiences has officially unveiled the return of Rann Utsav – The Tent City, set to run from 23 October 2025 to 4 March 2026, in the heart of Gujarat’s White Rann. This iconic desert festival continues to capture India’s cultural essence through an immersive celebration of local traditions, scenic landscapes, and community spirit.

For the 2025 season, Evoke Experiences will manage not only the operations of The Tent City but also its branding, entertainment, and guest experience verticals. The seamless integration of hospitality and storytelling aims to provide visitors with a truly memorable and authentic journey into the soul of Kutch.

This year’s edition places strong emphasis on sustainability. Key initiatives include:

  • Eco-friendly tents and efficient waste management
  • Installation of plastic crusher machines
  • LED lighting across the Tent City
  • Desert-wide cleanliness drives

These initiatives highlight Evoke’s dedication to responsible tourism while preserving the fragile desert ecosystem.

The cultural fabric of the festival is being enriched with live art demos, open-air film screenings, personalised celebration zones, and hands-on traditional craft workshops, offering travellers meaningful interactions with local artisans and communities.

Expanding the experience beyond the White Rann, Rann Utsav 2025 will now include Mandvi, a charming coastal town, and offer curated packages that extend to Dholavira, the ancient Harappan city. These additions offer a more holistic cultural and historical journey through Gujarat.

To kick off the season, Evoke Experiences has also announced the Evoke Incredible Flash Sale, available from 11 to 13 July 2025, offering flat 25% off across multiple destinations:

  • Rann Utsav – The Tent City (23 Oct 2025 – 4 Mar 2026)
  • White Rann – The Tent City, Dholavira (15 Oct 2025 – 4 Mar 2026)
  • Evoke Rambagh, Ayodhya (opening Oct 2025)
  • Statue of Unity Tent City – 1
  • Year-round Evoke Dholavira
  • Kuno and Gandhi Sagar Forest Retreats (dates to be announced)

This early-bird sale gives travellers first access to India’s top experiential stays before peak season demand.

With its renewed focus on culture, sustainability, and regional expansion, Rann Utsav 2025 – The Tent City promises a magical escape where tradition meets innovation under the starlit sky of Kutch.


Cygnett Hotels Signs Ninth Property in Northeast with Cygnett Park Guwahati

Cygnett Hotels Signs Ninth Property in Northeast with Cygnett Park Guwahati

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 11, 2025

Cygnett Hotels & Resorts has announced the signing of its ninth property in Northeast India, with the launch of Cygnett Park Guwahati. The new hotel will be developed in partnership with SRKS Hospitalities Private Limited and is scheduled to open in July 2026.

Strategically located at the border of Guwahati and Meghalaya, the hotel offers easy connectivity, just 45 minutes from Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport and 15 minutes from Guwahati city centre. This makes it a prime choice for both business and leisure travellers.

This announcement comes close on the heels of Cygnett’s recent expansion in Arunachal Pradesh with Cygnett Park Itanagar, reflecting the brand’s focused growth across India, especially in the culturally rich and emerging Northeast region.

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Cygnett Park Guwahati will feature 108 contemporary rooms and suites, an all-day dining restaurant with alfresco seating, a rooftop specialty outlet, a dedicated vegetarian restaurant, a chic bar, and banqueting and conference facilities spread over 9,000 sq. ft. Guests can also enjoy wellness offerings such as a spa, fitness centre, swimming pool, and recreational areas.

The new property aims to become a preferred venue for corporate gatherings, destination weddings, and vacationers, aligning with the Indian Government’s renewed push to grow the tourism sector in the Northeast.

“We were among the first branded hotel chains to enter the Northeast and are on track to reach a 2,000-key footprint in the region by 2029,” said Mr. Sarbendra Sarkar, Founder & Managing Director, Cygnett Hotels & Resorts. “With over ₹4.3 lakh crore worth of investments announced at the Rising Northeast Summit 2025, the hospitality sector in the region is poised for robust growth.”

The Cygnett Park brand is known for its green, wellness-focused hospitality with a touch of affordable luxury. The upcoming Guwahati property will also feature Cygnetture culinary excellence, offering diners a chance to savour flavours inspired by the rich culinary heritage of the Northeast.

With eight hotels already in operation or under development in the Northeast, the brand is now targeting 12–15 new properties annually across India, with the Northeast identified as a key growth area in its 100-hotel expansion strategy.

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