Union Budget 2025: Insights from Sarthak Sidana, Director of Underdoggs

Union Budget 2025: Insights from Sarthak Sidana, Director of Underdoggs

By Nishang Narayan

Published on January 22, 2025

As the Union Budget 2025 draws near, Sarthak Sidana, Director of Underdoggs, India’s premier sports bar and grill chain, shares his perspective on the opportunities and challenges within the F&B industry. His insights shed light on the evolving expectations of today’s consumers and the critical policy changes needed to drive innovation and sustainable growth in the restaurant sector.

Sidana highlights the significance of the F&B sector as a resilient economic contributor and substantial employment generator. However, he emphasizes the need for policy interventions to address ongoing challenges:

"The restaurant industry eagerly awaits the 2025 budget announcement and expects it to address the key challenges, enabling long-term sustainable growth and innovation. The F&B industry has been a resilient economic contributor and a substantial employment generator too. However, issues like complex licensing, high GST, and inability to avail of input tax credits are some of the biggest deterrents to the growth of the industry."

Sidana advocates for reforms that streamline compliance practices and promote sustainability:

"This year, we strongly urge the government to consider streamlining the compliance practices and offer tax rebates to restaurateurs adopting sustainable practices such as the use of green energy and innovative waste management practices. This would not only enhance operational efficiency but also empower the sector to align with the country's sustainability goals."

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Unlocking the Potential of F&B and Sports Entertainment

With India’s F&B landscape evolving, Sidana stresses the importance of dynamic, community-driven venues like Underdoggs in shaping the future of sports entertainment and dining experiences. He believes that supportive government policies will enable restaurants and sports bars to cater to changing consumer preferences while contributing more effectively to economic growth.

"With the required policies in place, we will unlock the sector's full potential and contribute more effectively to India's economic growth," Sidana concludes.

As the industry awaits the Budget 2025 announcement, voices like Sarthak Sidana’s underscore the need for a balanced approach to innovation, sustainability, and compliance. These measures could pave the way for the F&B sector to thrive in a competitive, consumer-driven environment.


Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Reports Strong Growth Across EMEA in 2024

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Reports Strong Growth Across EMEA in 2024

By Nishang Narayan

Published on March 12, 2025

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, the world's largest hotel franchising company, has continued its rapid expansion across Europe, the Middle East, Eurasia, and Africa (EMEA) in 2024. With 83 new contracts signed and over 50 hotels opened, the company has added more than 6,400 rooms to its portfolio, strengthening its presence in high-growth markets such as France, India, Spain, Türkiye, and Portugal.

This growth contributed to Wyndham’s 5% year-over-year increase in its global development pipeline, which now stands at a record 252,000 rooms worldwide. The EMEA region alone achieved 10% RevPAR growth, further demonstrating the strength of Wyndham’s brand portfolio and its commitment to supporting hotel owners through its Owner First™ approach to franchising.

"Wyndham's strong momentum in 2024 underscores the strength of our diverse brand portfolio and growing regional demand. We continue to strengthen our presence in key markets across EMEA while expanding into high-growth segments such as extended stay and branded residences. Our expansion in upscale segments, including Dolce by Wyndham in Europe, India, and the UAE, offers exciting opportunities for our business partners. As we grow, our focus remains on delivering long-term value through our Owner First strategies and providing exceptional experiences for travelers."

— Dimitris Manikis, President EMEA, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts

Key Growth Highlights Across EMEA

1. Strengthening Presence in Türkiye

Wyndham remains the largest international hotel company in Türkiye, with 120+ hotels across 40+ cities. Key 2024 openings include:

  • Days Inn by Wyndham Alanya – A modern, budget-friendly resort along the Mediterranean coast.
  • Boreas Hotel, Trademark Collection by Wyndham – The first Trademark Collection hotel in Ankara, offering a contemporary stay in the capital.
  • Wyndham Garden Cambasi – A picturesque retreat in the Black Sea highlands of Ordu.

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2. Expanding Ramada Across the Middle East & South Asia

The Ramada by Wyndham brand continued its strategic expansion with notable 2024 openings, including:

  • Ramada by Wyndham Ahmedabad Narendra Modi Stadium Motera – Ideally located inside Narendra Modi Stadium.
  • Ramada by Wyndham Kathmandu Dhumbarai – A premium hotel near UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
  • Ramada Resort by Wyndham Gilgit – A luxury resort in Gilgit’s growing tourism hub.

3. Meeting Midscale Demand with Ramada Encore

Wyndham expanded its Ramada Encore brand across EMEA to cater to the growing midscale market. New openings in 2024 include:

  • Ramada Encore by Wyndham Konya Karatay (Türkiye)
  • Ramada Encore by Wyndham Rajbagh Srinagar (India) – A serene riverside getaway.
  • Ramada Encore by Wyndham Bhiwadi Phool Bagh Chowk (India) – Strategically located in an industrial hub.
  • Ramada Encore by Wyndham Viramgam (India) – A full-service hotel in Ahmedabad’s business district.

4. Expanding Dolce by Wyndham in the Upscale & MICE Segments

Dolce by Wyndham, a leader in luxury and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) hotels, continues to grow with two major openings:

  • Dolce by Wyndham Barcelona Resort – A luxury golf retreat in Spain’s Penedès wine country.
  • Dolce by Wyndham Çeşme Alaçatı – The brand’s first Turkish resort, located on the Aegean coast.

Future Expansion Plans

1. Introducing Microtel by Wyndham in India

Wyndham is bringing its Microtel by Wyndham brand to India in collaboration with NILE Hospitality. The brand will debut in 2025, with plans to open 40 Microtel hotels across Tier-2, 3, and 4 cities by 2031.

2. Strengthening Presence in Portugal

Wyndham is working with The Lakhani Group to launch new hotels, including:

  • Wyndham Garden Alentejo Alcácer do Sal
  • Wyndham Residences Lisbon Loures
  • L Hotels Fátima, Trademark Collection by Wyndham
    (Opening in 2025)

3. Expanding Branded Residences Portfolio

Wyndham is set to launch multiple branded residences, including:

  • Wyndham Grand La Cala Golf Residences (Costa del Sol, Spain – April 2026)
  • Wyndham Residences Piraeus (Greece – December 2025)
  • Ramada Residences by Wyndham Halkidiki (Greece – May 2026)

The Wyndham Advantage: Technology & Rewards

Wyndham’s growth is backed by its $325 million investment in next-gen property management systems and digital innovations. With a global network of 114 million enrolled Wyndham Rewards members, the company continues to drive occupancy and revenue for its franchisees.

As international tourism demand rises in 2025, Wyndham remains focused on strategic expansion, strengthening its presence in key markets, and delivering exceptional guest experiences.


Avadh & Magadh Sugar Report Q3 & 9MFY25 Results: Mixed Performance Amid Industry Challenges

Avadh & Magadh Sugar Report Q3 & 9MFY25 Results: Mixed Performance Amid Industry Challenges

By Nishang Narayan

Published on February 16, 2025

The Board of Directors of Avadh Sugar & Energy Limited (ASEL) (BSE: 540649 / NSE: AVADHSUGAR) and Magadh Sugar & Energy Limited (MSEL) (BSE: 540650 / NSE: MAGADSUGAR) took on record the unaudited financial results for the quarter and nine months ended December 31, 2024.

Financial Highlights:

Avadh Sugar & Energy Limited (ASEL)

Q3FY25:

  • Total Income: ₹619 Cr (Q3FY24: ₹595 Cr)
  • EBITDA: ₹38 Cr (Q3FY24: ₹59 Cr)
  • PAT: ₹7 Cr (Q3FY24: ₹22 Cr)

9MFY25:

  • Total Income: ₹1,961 Cr (9MFY24: ₹2,076 Cr)
  • EBITDA: ₹131 Cr (9MFY24: ₹211 Cr)
  • PAT: ₹16 Cr (9MFY24: ₹73 Cr)

Magadh Sugar & Energy Limited (MSEL)

Q3FY25:

  • Total Income: ₹285 Cr (Q3FY24: ₹219 Cr)
  • EBITDA: ₹40 Cr (Q3FY24: ₹62 Cr)
  • PAT: ₹21 Cr (Q3FY24: ₹39 Cr)

9MFY25:

  • Total Income: ₹969 Cr (9MFY24: ₹810 Cr)
  • EBITDA: ₹97 Cr (9MFY24: ₹134 Cr)
  • PAT: ₹38 Cr (9MFY24: ₹70 Cr)

Management Commentary:

C.S. Nopany, Co-Chairperson, Avadh Sugar & Energy Ltd:

“The sugar season 2024-25 has presented a mixed outlook, with challenges such as lower cane yields and lower recovery in key states like Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Karnataka affecting production. Despite these setbacks, we remain optimistic about long-term growth. However, rising production costs and stagnant ethanol prices call for timely policy adjustments.

At Avadh, we are focused on sustainable expansion, and with the upcoming completion of our crushing enhancement at the Hargaon unit for the 2025-26 season, we expect further value creation.”

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C.S. Nopany, Chairperson, Magadh Sugar & Energy Ltd:

“The industry is facing a decline in production due to lower cane availability and recovery, along with a shift toward ethanol. Despite these challenges, our ability to adapt and invest in expansion positions us well for long-term growth.

At Magadh, we are committed to sustainability and are enhancing our crushing capacity and implementing steam-saving measures at our Narkatiaganj unit, which is now operational for the 2024-25 crushing season. With the right policy support, the sugar industry can continue to play a crucial role in India's economy.”

About Avadh Sugar & Energy Limited

  • CIN: L15122UP2015PLC069635
  • Specializes in sugar, spirits, ethanol, cogeneration, and by-products of sugar manufacturing.
  • Operates four sugar mills in Uttar Pradesh: Hargaon, Seohara, Hata, and Rosa, with a total crushing capacity of 34,800 TCD.
  • Two distilleries at Hargaon and Seohara with a combined ethanol capacity of 325 KLPD.
  • Cogeneration facility generating 74 MW power.

About Magadh Sugar & Energy Limited

  • CIN: L15122UP2015PLC069632
  • Engaged in sugar manufacturing, ethanol production, and power generation.
  • Operates three sugar mills in Bihar: Narkatiaganj, Sidhwalia, and Hasanpur, with a total crushing capacity of 21,500 TCD.
  • Two distilleries at Narkatiaganj and Sidhwalia with a combined ethanol capacity of 155 KLPD.
  • Cogeneration facility generating 38 MW power.

Sterling Holiday Resorts Reports Record-Breaking Q3 Results with Double-Digit Growth

Sterling Holiday Resorts Reports Record-Breaking Q3 Results with Double-Digit Growth

By Nishang Narayan

Published on February 7, 2025

Sterling Holiday Resorts Ltd. has announced its strongest quarter yet in Q3 FY25, marking a milestone in the company’s growth trajectory. With 18 consecutive quarters of profitability, Sterling’s performance in Q3 surpassed even its traditionally dominant Q1, thanks to strategic portfolio expansion that strengthened revenue streams beyond peak seasons.

The company reported a 12% YoY income growth, reaching ₹1,389 Mn. EBITDA increased by 14%, with a solid 38.8% EBITDA margin, while EBIT rose 13% YoY.

Expanding Horizons: Three New Resorts Launched

Sterling’s portfolio now spans 48 locations with 57 resorts, hotels, and retreats in the upper-mid to upper-upscale segments. Strengthening its footprint, the company added three new resorts in Q3:

  • Sterling Lontano Waterfront Wayanad (Kerala)
  • Sterling Brookstone Coorg (Karnataka)
  • Sterling Bagh Ranthambore (Rajasthan)

Maintaining its rapid growth pace, Sterling has launched one resort per month for the past 18 months, with several more in the pipeline.

"Sterling has witnessed its strongest-ever quarter, a testament to our brand's growing preference among customers. A surge in holiday demand, coupled with our aggressive resort expansion, has fueled this success," said Vikram Lalvani, MD & CEO, Sterling Holiday Resorts.

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Food & Beverage Sees 20% Growth

Sterling’s food and beverage division has been another strong performer, recording a 20% YoY growth. The company attributes this to its enhanced dining experiences and a diverse range of culinary offerings across its properties.

Sustainability at the Core: Sterling Sankalp Initiative

Further strengthening its commitment to sustainability, Sterling has introduced Sterling Sankalp, an ESG initiative aimed at responsible tourism. The company has implemented key measures across several resorts, including:

  • Energy Conservation: Heat pumps for optimized energy use
  • Waste Management: Organic Waste Converters for eco-friendly disposal
  • Water Sustainability: Rainwater harvesting and water recycling programs

Looking Ahead

On a year-to-date (YTD) basis, Sterling has achieved a 14% growth in income (₹3,842 Mn) and a 35% EBITDA margin, showcasing its sustained upward trajectory. With an expanding portfolio, a thriving food and beverage sector, and a strong focus on sustainability, Sterling continues to solidify its leadership in the hospitality industry.

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