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Monthly Publication September 2017 Vol 4 • Issue 9 Pages 56 ` 50
Contents
More India for Alila 14 A look at Alila’s increasing presence across geographies and how the group plans to expand in the India market
Marriage of MICE with Marriott 18 Marriott International continues to set the trend with its unique MICE and wedding concepts in India
Weaving an artistic tale 14 22 Rachel Winokur, Senior Interior Designer, Elkus Manfredi Architects, talks about her inspirations and award-winning designs More legroom for MICE 28 An insight into the MICE segment of conventions and banquets, and its evolution over the past years Maya honours East India stars 34 The fourth edition of East India Travel Awards, held for the first time in Guwahati, applauds the stalwarts of the tourism and hospitality industry in the region 18 22
28 34
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NORTH INDIA The Lodhi, New Delhi, now part of Leading Hotels of the World
The Lodhi, New Delhi, has now come under The Leading Hotels of the World portfolio. The property reflects a dynamic, new interpretation of simple and easy luxury. Spanning across seven acres on the green edge of Lutyens’ Delhi, the hotel is just across the road from the Delhi Golf Course. Guests can relish exotic delicacies at its restaurants and enjoy the cool ambiance of the courtyards and public areas. The hotel also preserves a sense of seclusion, peace, and a club-like atmosphere in its eight floors of guest accommodation. The property was extensively renovated in 2013, with all rooms and suites featuring private balconies. The hotel is in close proximity to Lodhi Gardens as well as many stylish shopping precincts.
WEST INDIA PAN INDIA AccorHotels’ Mercure debuts in holy city ITDC profit surges of Dwarka, Gujarat in Q1, 2017
Mercure has made its debut in the holy city of Dwarka, India Tourism Development Corporation Gujarat, with the opening of Mercure Dwarka. Strategically (ITDC), the public sector undertaking located, the hotel is a short drive from Dwarkadhish Temple, under the aegis of Ministry of Tourism, popularly known as Jagat Mandir. The hotel is conveniently posted a remarkable performance for located at a five-minute drive from the railway station, an hour’s the first quarter of the current financial drive from Porbandar Airport, and a little over two hours from year, 2017-18. The total turnover in the the Jamnagar airport. The hotel is also in close proximity to quarter ending June, 2017, increased other religious sites of Nageshvara Temple, Gopi Talav to `109.60 crore as compared to Theertham, Rukmini Devi Temple, and Hanuman Mandir. The `91.42 crore in the corresponding opening of Mercure Dwarka marks AccorHotels’ fourth property quarter last year. The company in Gujarat. Featuring 99 well-appointed guest rooms, registered Net Profit Before Tax (PBT) including one suite, the hotel offers contemporary homely at `25.19 crore as compared to comfort in the cosmic land of Krishna. Each guest room `14.30 crore in the corresponding features spacious interiors and modern design; the rooms are quarter last financial year, an increase equipped with in-room amenities and high-speed Wi-Fi access. of 76.15 per cent from last year.
NORTH INDIA Hyatt Regency Delhi, first Hyatt to receive LEED Platinum certification
Hyatt Regency Delhi has been certified as LEED Platinum by Green Business Certification (GBCI), the body that certifies all LEED projects globally. With this honour, Hyatt Regency Delhi becomes the first Hyatt hotel in over 700 properties across the world and one of the few hotels in Delhi to have received this esteemed green building certification. During a special ceremony at Hyatt Regency Delhi, the internationally recognised LEED (Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design) plaque and certificate were presented to Shiv Jatia, Chairman and Managing Director of Asian Hotels (North) by Gopalakrishnan P, Managing Director – Asia Pacific & Middle East, GBCI. Speaking at the occasion, Aseem Kapoor, General Manager, Hyatt Regency Delhi, said, “It is a proud moment for all of us, especially as we are the first hotel to receive this certification within the Hyatt family. With this, Hyatt Regency Delhi establishes itself as one of the few global leaders for energy and environment design.”
Hospitality Talk September 2017
6 Domestic News
SOUTH INDIA WelcomHotel to soon open in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu WelcomHotel is soon to open a contemporary hotel in the heart of Kovai City, Coimbatore, where rich history, wild sanctuary reserves, and booming businesses effortlessly blend together. WelcomHotel Coimbatore will feature 103 well-appointed rooms with modern amenities, a rooftop pool, an all-day dining restaurant, and a lounge bar that offers an international selection of wines. The hotel is the perfect home base for both business and leisure guests.
WEST INDIA Le Méridien opens in Calangute, Goa, with 146 rooms
Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts has announced the opening of Le Méridien in Calangute, Goa, further strengthening the Paris-born brand’s presence in India with its 10th property. Situated on the bustling Calangute-Candolim road, Le Méridien Goa, Calangute is set to expose the curious and creative minded traveller to the best-kept secrets of North Goa. With experiences and programmes centred on the brand’s filters of discovery – culture, co-ordinates, and cuisine, the hotel promises accessible and stimulating experiences.
PAN INDIA Radisson Blu unveils The Art of Weddings
Radisson Blu has launched The Art of Weddings, a campaign created exclusively for the India market. Building on the brand’s global ‘Something Blu, A Wedding of a Kind’ concept, the initiative will run across all of India’s 34 Radisson Blu hotels. Aimed at establishing the upper-upscale brand as the venue of choice for weddings and bridal events, The Art of Weddings is targeted at new age Indian couples and brings together the finest names in wedding services for a truly elegant, stylish, and sophisticated wedding experience. Special privileges, such as food and beverage discounts and a bonus of 25,000 Club CarlsonSM Gold Points, will be extended to all wedding bookings made at Radisson Blu hotels across India during the campaign period.
NORTH INDIA RCI expands network with Hill Stream Resort, Dehradun RCI, the global leader in holiday exchange and part of the Wyndham Worldwide family of brands, has announced an agreement to affiliate the Hill Stream Resort in Dehradun to its network. Hill Stream Resort is a perfect serene getaway with a unique experience of the hills, water streams, gardens, and forests, all rolled into one. The property boasts of immaculate accommodation in terms of luxury and private balconies. Additionally, the resort offers a wellness spa, personalised tours, camping, trekking, and adventure sports like rock climbing.
Hospitality Talk September 2017
8 Domestic News
NORTH INDIA NORTH INDIA Country Inn Tree of Life Resort & Spa, Varanasi to open soon & Suites By Tree of Life Resort & Spa, Varanasi is set to open on September 4, 2017. The resort will offer Junior Suites, each with Carlson opens in a private area of around 650 sqft. Decorated in local architecture, each Junior Suite allows you the luxury of space and privacy. The resort has a large private sit-out overlooking the gardens and the Ganga Kund (religious pond), with open Kota, Rajasthan spaces around. It is situated away from the noise and chaos of the city. Situated in rural surroundings, 11 kms from Country Inn & Suites By Carlson Kota the airport and just 12 kms from the city centre, the new expressway connecting the airport and the city makes it a made its debut in Kota, Rajasthan, convenient 20-25 minute drive to either location. The new Ring Road to Sarnath starts just a few kilometres from the recently. The hotel is the first-ever property and once operational, will make it a pleasurable 25-minute drive away. international brand to have a pres- ence in the city. Strategically located in the heart of the region, Country Inn & Suites By Carlson Kota offers 85 modern rooms and suites. The hotel is located in proximity to corpo- rate zones and educational service institutes, making it the perfect stay for both business and family guests. “I am delighted to welcome Country Inn & Suites By Carlson Kota to our growing portfolio in India. With 557 properties in operation and under development globally, Country Inns & Suites By CarlsonSM is a leader in the upper-midscale hotel segment,” said Raj Rana, Chief Executive Officer - South Asia, Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group.
NORTH INDIA OBITUARY Chandiwala Hospitality Ensemble from October 11-13 In Memoriam: The 16th Chandiwala Hospitality Ensemble will be held in New Delhi at Banarsidas Chandiwala Institute of Hotel Ronnie Lobo Management and Catering Technology (BCIHMCT) between October 11 and 13, 2017. The ensemble not only includes finest culinary competitions, but also various challenges related to the hospitality industry, being participated in by colleges of hotel management from India and abroad. The objective of this event is to provide an opportunity to aspiring hotel management professionals by giving them a platform to demonstrate their knowledge, skill, and talent, leading to enhanced learning from each other’s experience and expertise. For the first time in the history of Chan- diwala Hospitality Ensemble, school students of Grade 8-12 will also be participating individually by preparing and presenting a mocktail and a dish, with recipe, in the Future Chef Contest. The most outstanding participant during the three-day event will be given the Eclat Hospitality Award. A themed dinner titled ‘Agnihom – The Revival of Soul’, along with a valedictory function, will mark the closing of Chandiwala Hospitality Ensemble on October 13, 2017. Ronnie Lobo, survived by his wife and children, passed away on August 14, 2017, at his New Delhi residence. In the span of his career, Lobo worked with prominent hospitality players in the industry such as Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group & Taj Hotels and Resorts.
The Carlson group honoured him for an outstanding career achievement with its 2011 Carlson Fellows Award. A gentleman at heart, Lobo will be deeply missed by all.
Hospitality Talk September 2017
10 International News
NORTH AMERICA W Hotels debuts W Bellevue in Washington, USA W Hotels Worldwide has announced the opening of W Bellevue, Washington, marking a new era of design for W Hotels in North America. Playing off Bellevue’s tech-forward neighbours and centuries-old traditions, the design of the hotel embraces the UHJLRQ·VMX[WDSRVHGDIÀQLW\IRUERWKLWVQDWXUDOVXUURXQGLQJVDQG groundbreaking innovation. The hotel pays homage to lakeside culture with cabin-like architecture, thoughtfully reimagined traditional décor, and locally-inspired cocktails and cuisine. Built as a W from the ground up, W Bellevue offers a modern, yet invitingly familiar setting to welcome locals and travellers alike to 220 guest rooms and 25 suites in the newest Lincoln Square expansion.
EUROPE Residence Inn by Marriott debuts in London Marriott International has announced the opening of Residence Inn London Bridge, marking a debut in the capital city for the company’s industry-leading extended-stay brand. The property offers 87 well-appointed studio, one and two-bedroom suites with separate living, working and sleeping areas, as well as a fully-equipped kitchen. Guests looking ASIA for a home-away-from-home experience during Pullman announces new opening in longer stays are catered to with upscale design and amenities such as complimentary hot Zhouzhuang, China breakfasts, communal laundry facilities, free Pullman has announced the opening of its latest hotel in China’s heritage water town of Zhouzhuang, Wi-Fi, and a 24x7 grab-and-go market in the Jiangsu province. The hotel is nestled within a 50 acre wetland park and gateway to the century-old OREE\$QRQVLWHVWDWHRIWKHDUWÀWQHVVFHQWUH water system that joins the Yangtze River. Boasting 174 guest rooms and suites with private balconies is available 24x7 and custom running routes and panoramic lake and park views, the spacious rooms feature the signature Pullman bedding, a can be accessed via MapMyFitness, thanks wireless Bluetooth docking station, and premium in-room amenities. Dining options include La Lune to the brand’s global partnership with Under Chinese restaurant that features 18 private dining rooms serving Cantonese cuisine, an all-day dining Armour Connected Fitness. A short walk from restaurant- Café 88, a Western-style bar- V Pub, and a lobby lounge featuring a selection of freshly some of the city’s main historic attractions ground coffee and artisanal pastries. For weddings, events, and meetings, the hotel has an 820 sqm such as Tower Bridge and St. Paul’s Cathedral, grand ballroom and seven function rooms that can accommodate up to 1350 guests. Wellness facilities Residence Inn London Bridge is ideally situated include a 2000 sqm Fit Lounge villa that comes with an indoor pool, Jacuzzi, gym, and yoga studio. for leisure and business travellers alike.
NORTH AMERICA WORLDWIDE ONE UN Plaza joins AccorHotels’ results for Hilton network first half of 2017 remain Hilton has announced that ONE UN New York will soon join the Hilton network as Millennium Hilton solid: Sébastien Bazin New York One UN Plaza, the group’s seventh Sébastien Bazin, Chairman and Chief Executive local property. The landmark hotel, situated 2IÀFHU$FFRU+RWHOVVD\V´$FFRU+RWHOV·UHVXOWVIRU alongside the headquarters of the United Nations, ÀUVWKDOIRIDUHSDUWLFXODUO\VROLG7KH\UHÁHFW has long welcomed both leisure and business growth in our hotel business, the rapid integration travellers, and the world’s most esteemed leaders, of recently acquired brands, our persistently diplomats, and Heads of State. The iconic property dynamic development, and the ramp-up of our new LVQRZSRLVHGWRGHOLYHU+LOWRQ·VÁDJVKLSKRVSLWDOLW\ businesses. In this way, we are increasing our market to visitors from across the globe. It has completed share and consolidating our global leadership while a USD 68 million phased renovation since 2012, profoundly transforming our business model. The which preserved the distinctive architecture separation of AccorInvest into a stand-alone legal and layout of the original Kevin Roche-designed entity has been completed. Discussions about the building, while upgrading the hotel’s 439 guest opening of this business to outside investors are rooms and suites, meetings and events space, ongoing. Our pursuit of this growth strategy enables public areas, and restaurant. us to aim for another year of record growth in 2017.”
Hospitality Talk September 2017
12 International News
NORTH AMERICA Ascott acquires 80 per cent stake in Synergy Global Housing in the US
The Ascott Limited is acquiring an 80 per cent stake in Synergy Global Housing (Synergy), a leading accommodation provider in the US. The acquisition will expand Ascott’s footprint in the US and strengthen its extensive range of international-class serviced residences for corporate customers worldwide. It will also triple Ascott’s portfolio from over 1000 units to about 3000 units in the US. This acquisition is yet another move to transform Ascott’s global operating platform following hot on the heels of its investment in Quest Apartment Hotels earlier this month, which will leapfrog Ascott to becoming the largest serviced residence provider in Australasia.
MIDDLE EAST EUROPE Roseate Hotels IHG signs two new properties in & Resorts Dubai Business Bay announces InterContinental Hotels Group has announced the signing of two new properties in Dubai- Crowne Plaza Dubai Business Bay and InterContinental acquisition of Residence Suites Dubai Business Bay. Both properties are in partnership Villa at Henrietta with API Hotels & Resorts, and their location in Dubai’s Business Bay area, the planned business capital of the region, is in line with IHG’s strategy to Park, Bath grow these brands in emerging business epicentres. Roseate Hotels & Resorts has announced its acquisition of Villa at Henrietta Park (formerly known as Villa Magdala) in Bath, United Kingdom. Acquired from the independently-owned Kaleidoscope Collection, Villa at Henrietta Park is Roseate Hotels & Resorts’ third property in the UK. Tucked away in a quiet corner in the heart of Bath, the boutique property offers 21 spacious and exquisitely appointed rooms. Set in two carefully restored Victorian houses with individual gardens, Villa at Henrietta Park features a quirky, yet elegant personality. The unique and picturesque property echoes chic classism blended with a buoyant, yet relaxed ambience. Ankur Bhatia, ([HFXWLYH'LUHFWRU%LUG*URXSVD\V´:HDUHSURXGWRSXWRXUÁDJRQRQHRI the most iconic properties in Bath. Bath is an important market for us as it is one of the most visited cities and is amongst the UNESCO World Heritage sites. Villa would be branded as The Roseate Villa Bath.”
NORTH AMERICA Autograph Collection Hotels and SMASHotels introduce Hotel EMC2 Autograph Collection Hotels and SMASHotels have announced the RIÀFLDORSHQLQJRI+RWHO(0&LQ downtown Chicago. Celebrating the convergence of art and science through its design, cuisine, and guest experience, Hotel EMC2 joins the diverse and dynamic portfolio of more than 100 Autograph Collection hotels around the world that are independent, one-of-a-kind, and champion values of vision, design, and craft.
Hospitality Talk September 2017
14 Interview More India for Alila Doris Goh, Chief Marketing Officer, Alila Hotels and Resorts, talks to us about the group’s properties in India and where they see themselves amongst travellers.
Anupriya Bishnoi
Hospitality Talk September 2017
16 Interview
Tell us about Alila Fort Bishangarh. innovative culinary options that and Alila Villas Niushoushan, Alila Fort Bishangarh is a unique have been specially curated by Chef Nanjing, China, situated within a example of Jaipur’s Gharana Ranveer Brar. Deep in the dungeon, Buddhist cultural site, something architecture, influenced by both carved out between granite rocks, that may entice our Indian audience the Mughals and the British, and is Spa Alila. Alila offers a specially to come and discover this culturally is possibly the only boutique crafted Rajasthani journey for guests vibrant destination. Furthermore, warrior fort of its kind in India that to engage with the local community, we will be opening two iconic city has been converted into a resort. watch local artisans work their art of hotels - Alila Bangsar in Kuala Hidden away in the Aravalli hills carpet weaving, silversmithing, and Lumpur, Malaysia and Alila SCBD of Rajasthan, an hour’s drive marble sculpting. in Jakarta, Indonesia. from Jaipur, Alila Fort Bishangarh Doris Goh commands a remarkable presence Is expansion on the cards for Alila? Who do you see as your clients? upon a granite hill with a This year, we opened Alila Fort We seek to tap the segment of 360-degree view of the Rajasthani Bishangarh after seven years of both business and leisure travellers. landscape of hills, havelis, villages, dedication and toil. We have also At all our properties, we have and temples. The resort boasts just opened Alila Yangshuo in curated creative spaces for India is as important of 59 spacious rooms and suites, Guilin, China, which was another innovative meetings and corporate individually configured to capture project that took seven years in the retreats, complete with destina- for us as China, stunning views of the Aravalli hills. making. Next year, we will be tion experiences and team building both in terms of Within the walls of the old fort opening Alila Koggala, Sri Lanka; activities to take people outdoors. are two diverse restaurants, Alila Villas Koh Russey, Cambodia; It has proved to be very popular with hotel development Amarsar and Nazaara, with Alila Tianxi Lake, Zhejiang, China, guests and many now choose to and outbound tourism
Hospitality Talk September 2017 Interview 17
bring their families along for extended stays. At Alila Fort Bishangarh, we have conceptualised 23 creative venues for meetings, events, and all other occasions.
How important is India as a market for Alila? India is as important for us as China, both in terms of hotel development and outbound tourism. However, development projects take time to manifest as they are dependent on the right partnership. We have been fortunate to have good owners at both Alila Diwa Goa and Alila Fort Bishangarh. Ever since Alila Diwa Goa opened in 2010, it has done very well year-on-year and won acclaim from both domestic like Alila are also highly sought-after. our guests while keeping things and international travellers. We are not for the masses, but we surprisingly different. do have a growing clientele. Typically, Tell us about the competition Alila guests are well-travelled and What is Alila’s philosophy? you face. have a sense of adventure. They Our business philosophy is to We believe in healthy competition as know what they want and are not integrate commerce, conservation, it serves to benefit the destination. afraid to stand up for what they and community. The hallmark of Travellers today have many hotel believe in. We want to keep doing Alila is the combination of innovative choices to cater to their business what we do, which is to push for design and crafted luxury in unique and leisure needs. We certainly need sustainable tourism and deliver locations, set apart by private business hotels, but boutique hotels unique destination experiences to spaces and bespoke journeys.
September 2017 Hospitality Talk 18 Interview MARRIAGE OF MICE WITH MARRIOTT Neeraj Govil, Area Vice President – South Asia, Marriott International, elaborates on how the group’s innovative concepts and invigorating partnerships help drive results and guest satisfaction in the wedding space.
Anupriya Bishnoi domestic tourists and ensure we understand and value what we can endear ourselves up to them. do in India, when they travel outside Tell us about the involvement of Wedding is beyond just the couple. India, they are likely to stay at a Marriott in the wedding segment. People place a lot of trust whenever Marriott property. We see this as a The whole premise behind the they ask any hotel to manage their means to grow our share of wedding campaign ‘Shaadi by Marriott’ is to wedding. We are likely to win them business in India. show that we have our fair share as an audience. The second reason of the burgeoning wedding space. is that we are a global player and Are you going to do away with all This is a segment we have been the largest hotel company in the the external wedding planners? interested in for a very long time. world. More and more Indians are We are not doing away with them, There are two reasons for that; the now travelling outside India. We we are working in partnership with first is that we are looking to attract are confident that if people can them. If a consumer wants to work
Hospitality Talk September 2017 Interview 19
directly with the hotel, we are more than happy to work with them. We are working with a lot of wedding planners across India. The whole idea, from an operations perspective, is about planning to be able to cater to all sorts of weddings. A great example is JW Marriott Hotel Kolkata that was opened last year. We have had great success in the wedding space because of the way the hotel is laid out and we are now putting bridal rooms in our hotels because we understand the need of the bridal
has been very well accepted by larger groups without meddling with our guests. We also launched a the operations of the rest of the campaign towards the end of last hotel. We are also keen to be close year which stated, “If you do your to large convention centres. For wedding at a Marriott, we will take instance, Aerocity has a large care of your honeymoon”. We are convention centre planned that trying to be a one-stop-shop for makes it a great place to be. We are weddings, but this is not at all also going to open an Aloft in the about getting rid of our partners. same location, very soon. Growth, We realise that partnering with for us, has been phenomenal, Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla will despite the fact that demonetisa- elevate this whole concept. They tion, at some point or another, had are pioneers in their field and an impact. We have well-mitigated through such unique partnerships all negative impacts now. We have and initiatives, we look to offer our also seen a significant amount of guests handcrafted experiences like increase in our weddings and are never before. looking for a double-digit growth in Neeraj Govil this segment of business. Talking about MICE, how strong is Marriott in this segment? What is your opinion of the GST? Marriott is a big player in MICE; we We are complying with the GST. room next to the Grand Ballroom. have got big hotels. A large portion Most of our hotels lie within the Most of our We have also put specialist wedding of our business comes out of MICE. 28 per cent bracket and the rest planners in our hotels. Most of our JW Marriott properties are in the 18 per cent space. JW Marriott have large banqueting spaces, both We haven’t had any adverse Conducting a wedding is extremely indoors and outdoors. Even our impact yet, but I think it will make properties have different from conducting a MICE resort locations are pretty big in international MICE all the more large banqueting event. If someone wants to do a MICE. We understand the value of difficult to get because India will food tasting, they usually visit the this sector and as we are moving become uncompetitive as a spaces, both indoors hotel. However, we are now increas- ahead with designing our future destination as other locations like and outdoors ingly visiting a client’s home so they hotels, we are making sure these Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, can sit down and taste the food, hotels are designed in a way that and Dubai have a significantly conveniently. This personalisation they facilitate the movement of lower GST rate.
September 2017 Hospitality Talk 20 Interview
SANJAY SHARMA Market Vice President - North India and Nepal Marriott International
How is North India, as a market, leaps and bounds from the well for us. We have 15 brands in performing overall? domestic market, but at the the country. In most of the larger The North India market is same time, inbound has slowed cities we have luxury brands as phenomenal at the moment. down a bit. well as select-service brands, If there is a bit of sluggishness both doing well in terms of in terms of inbound tourism, Which is the best performing city growth rate. There is double-digit it is because performance in for Marriott in North India? growth in both these segments Rajasthan has been sluggish. Delhi-NCR has done extremely in comparison to last year. Sanjay Sharma On the contrary though, well, so has Jaipur. Also, Rajasthan has achieved Lucknow is among the top Growth mostly comes from phenomenal numbers in markets of our growth trajectory. B-category cities or the cities comparison to last year because Remote locations like Jaisalmer that are in remote locations. of domestic tourism. The have done very well and continue wedding segment has grown in to do well. One city that we would What are the group’s immediate love to see doing well is Srinagar. expansion plans? However, due to the current We just opened Four Points By Luxury brands as well as select-service situation, it’s lagging behind a bit. Sheraton in Srinagar. We will have four more hotels by the brands are doing well in terms of growth Do you think mid-segment or end of the year. We have budget hotels are performing JW Marriott coming up in Jaipur, better than luxury ones? Fairfield in Jodhpur and Amritsar, Both these sectors are doing very and a Marriott in Indore.
SHAADI BY MARRIOTT - THE CONCEPT
The Marriott brand has been all under one roof with built on a philosophy of utmost the help of in-house thought and care towards the wedding celebrants. customers and nowhere is this attitude more evident than when As the post-wedding celebrations they host weddings. Shaadi continue, Marriott goes a step by Marriott, a first-of-its-kind further with a special honeymoon wedding-specific customised package that offers couples campaign, was thus born to the best possible start to a showcase Marriott’s unmatched lifetime of wedded bliss at wedding expertise and to make select Marriott properties across Marriott synonymous with the world. Couples who plan their weddings in India. weddings at any of the Marriott hotels in India with a minimum At Marriott, they pride spend of `5 lakh, can pick from themselves in excelling at beautiful destinations such as all necessary parameters to Goa, Jaisalmer, Mussoorie, provide a wedding experience Bhutan, Thailand, and even that is unforgettable. Shaadi Australia to enjoy a complimen- by Marriott is exactly that - a tary 2-night or 3-day honeymoon promise of faith, trust, quality, stay from May 15, 2017, until and value. It is about helping April 30, 2018. In addition to customers realise that the this, Marriott wedding specialists occasion means as much to assist and cater to every couple’s Marriott as it does to them. wedding needs. This year, they Whether it’s the biggest wedding wanted to take the campaign to of the season or the most private a whole new level by tying up with affair, Shaadi by Marriott aims to Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla, craft that unique, luxurious, and one of the most notable personalised wedding experience, designers in India.
Hospitality Talk September 2017 Destination 21
FAIR PLAY IN NEPAL Marriott debuted its Fairfield brand in the Kingdom of Nepal this June to tap the leisure as well as business traffic with its 115-key property in Thamel, Kathmandu.
Hazel Jain destination for Indians for religious 35 per cent Chinese guests, and and adventure tourism. Nepal is a the remaining being of other Nepal was recently introduced year-round destination with some nationalities. We expect the hotel to Fairfield by Marriott, Marriott key religious destinations like to achieve an ARR of around International’s first hotel in the Muktinath, Pashupatinath, and USD 85 by the end of the year.” country. Fairfield by Marriott Lumbini. In fact, Kathmandu has He says that Nepal’s government Kathmandu is located five been a favoured destination for is taking steps to promote Thamel kilometres away from the airport Indians as it offers a quick getaway as a 24-hour destination where in Thamel district, which was a from the tropical heat.” activities and parties can continue bohemian haven before it became non-stop. a popular shopping destination. Fairfield by Marriott already has The 115-room hotel is close to all four hotels currently open in For MICE, the hotel has two meeting Prakash Jayadevan UNESCO World Heritage sites as India – Fairfield by Marriott rooms for board meetings and well as popular attractions including Bengaluru Rajajinagar, Fairfield by small trainings. In time, the hotel the Narayanhity Palace Museum, Marriott Bengaluru Outer Ring Road, expects to have more business Garden of Dreams, and Kathmandu Fairfield by Marriott Lucknow, and space on offer with larger banquet Durbar Square. Fairfield by Marriott Belagavi. halls. It is a contemporary hotel with bright, natural lighting in the lobby Prakash Jayadevan, General Jayadevan adds, “Being in the and the restaurant. The art work Manager, Fairfield by Marriott tourist district of Kathmandu, we gives a unique sense of place to Kathmandu, believes this is the expect majority of our guests to be the hotel. right product for this market as tourists. However, since we are also it fills a much-needed gap in the close to key embassies, government INSIDE THE HOTEL moderate-tier segment with its offices, and the commercial district, Kava, the all-day dining restaurant, serves local, Indian, and international fresh, contemporary design. we are looking to get a good mix of cuisine. Kava - The Bar and lobby lounge offers coffee and cocktails in Speaking about the traffic to the tourists and business travellers. The the evening. The business centre meeting rooms are equipped with the hotel, Jayadevan says, “India is hotel has been operational since latest audio-visual facilities and all public areas and guest rooms have the biggest source market for June, this year, and we have seen high-speed Wi-Fi. The hotel also features a 24x7 convenience store. Nepal. It has always been a key a mix of 40 per cent Indian guests,
September 2017 Hospitality Talk 22 Architecture
WEAVING AN ARTISTIC TALE Rachel Winokur, Senior Interior Designer, Elkus Manfredi Architects, founded a design studio in Los Angeles catering to clients, ranging from celebrities to developers of luxury hotels and residences. We get in conversation with her to understand what’s buzzing in the design space and what inspires her.
Image credit: Hedrich Blessing
Hospitality Talk September 2017 Architecture 23
HT Bureau them can be a challenge, but it’s that gives me a unique foundation a wonderful opportunity to bridge for working in the luxury sphere. Is your design aesthetic thousands of years of history with conformist or non-conformist? what’s current today. I love finding Which projects at Elkus Manfredi I would say, non-conformist. In evidence and elements of India’s DWWUDFWHG\RXWRWKHÀUP" my mind, there really aren’t any rich history in its contemporary I was very taken by the rules. I always try to approach a hotels. At its best, hotel design InterContinental in Boston. There project with a fresh perspective. I in India affirms the country’s past was a unique design challenge don’t want to imitate anything else while breathing new life into its there- the property’s site was on top or to repeat myself and I don’t present and future. of an underground highway with a follow trends. vent stack jutting out of its centre. Rachel Winokur How much do location and context Solving that clearly required an Doesn’t that get a little tricky? LQÁXHQFH\RXUGHVLJQ" impressive level of collaboration and I think it’s exciting and I think you Context is always important. You some very inventive engineering. get a better product in the end. For need to understand why a guest is The firm managed to rid the skyline instance, eight years ago, I used drawn to a certain locale or a par- of an eyesore and create luxury Designers working reclaimed wooden panelling on the ticular area within that locale. You housing and a full service hotel. walls of a luxury spa in Los Angeles, have to offer the guest a surprise, It was a win-win for everyone. in India have way before this became popular. I an experience they weren’t thinking didn’t want it to look too rustic, so they needed. The Peninsula in Chicago does so such a range of I balanced it with a natural shell many things well. Elkus Manfredi exquisite architectural veneer, routing out the wood. It I do draw my palette inspiration took an incredibly complex project wasn’t the predictable route, and from the location. If it’s a beach located at the heart of Chicago’s elements initially, the installer didn’t know location, there will be a lot of Magnificent Mile shopping district how to do it. But, we figured it out blues and greens. But they aren’t and focused the design on the and in the end, we had something standard blues and greens; there’s guest experience. There’s a truly original. I like to explore ideas; always a twist, something unexpect- transforming moment on arrival at I wouldn’t call it tricky. ed. Every location has its own vibe. street-level that ushers the guest A hotel needs to tell a story. in, out of the urban buzz and into What’s your take on hotel an oasis of calm. The retail and designs in India? I spent part of my childhood living hospitality portions are beautifully I have seen spectacular hotel on a sailboat on the New England knit together. designs in India, especially in coastline with my parents and the last year or so, both in new sister. That experience certainly Aloft, as part of construction as well as in helped broaden my sense of space. the Starwood restoration of existing properties. We also lived in semi-rural areas Hotels in Bos- India’s rich heritage, diversity, and in New England and had pigs and ton’s Seaport abundance of local flavours provide cattle and chicken. Growing up like District, offers an infinite inspiration. Designers Image credit: Anton Grassl/Esto working in India have such a range of exquisite archi- tectural elements and centuries-old crafts that can be adopted and reinterpreted to create a unique hotel experience. Using
September 2017 Hospitality Talk 24 Architecture
wooden ceilings, polished concrete same time create a meaningful floor, and raw concrete columns. experience for the hotel guest. The energy of the design and the fun elements pick up on the How do you achieve sustainability urban buzz of the location. It’s in your projects? fun, it’s sophisticated, and it is My middle name is Carson, after LEED-certified, which of course is Rachel Carson, who wrote the book very important to me. Silent Spring. I’ve worked for several firms and had my own firm as well What design trends do you before coming to Elkus Manfredi. envision for the year? At each stop along the way, I’ve For quite a while, I’ve noticed been able to step back and ask a general softening in design– a myself what’s important to me and softening in materials, in form, in the answer has always been the the objects, and in the vernacular same- sustainable design. It we use. People are now looking for is always possible to create more of a residential feel in hotels, something that looks great and is a sense of coming home. They healthy for the guests, healthy for still want that 5-star service, the greater population as well as but they also want to relax and the environment. feel comfortable. +RZGLIÀFXOWLVGHOLYHULQJ\RXUEHVW Minimalism is still very strong, while staying within the budget? but more and more we’re seeing There is always a fantastic design artisanal and handmade elements solution within any budget. I think that celebrate locally made products budgets are helpful for a designer. and locally sourced materials. There You may have to be more creative, is a growing awareness around perhaps use a little more strategy, how things are made and that but budgets and schedules are not consumer decisions can help save limitations. They provide a structure a culture, a trade, and help support within which everyone can work. Image credit: Andrew Bordwin a nice range of areas for people to a local family. This social awareness gather. Each one of them is distinct, is manifesting itself in hospitality In design, having unlimited options yet they relate. It all feels con- design and even apartment building can sound great, but it also means nected within a larger space that is owners want to use local artists to you can explore those options still quite intimate. There’s also a liven up their corridors and public forever. Having a budget limits pleasing rhythm to the space that’s spaces. Hotels purchase carpets those options, keeps everyone on very easy on the eyes. I like that and decorative items, the origins the same page, and lets you know the designers use local images from of which they can trace and where where the client is comfortable. It’s Boston such as the John Hancock there’s no sacrifice on aesthetics. easier to make decisions. When Tower and the Zakim Bridge, and With ethical sourcing, I can provide someone tells me that the sky’s the they achieve a very comfortable a beautiful design that falls within limit, I start to feel lost. Image credit: Anton Grassl/Esto balance of textures with the warm my client’s budget, while at the What are the challenges you face? The pace of change in technology is a challenge. In a long-term design project, you might design a reception desk around today’s equipment, but by the time the project is realised that equipment has changed size. Another challenge is that the way people do business is constantly changing. It’s an opportunity to try and anticipate the way a hotel will greet its guests and how the guests want to be treated in the next 10 or 15 years. Another opportunity is trying to remain current. There are, of course, traditional hotels that offer the same services and aesthetic over a long period of time, but the smaller boutique hotels have to always offer something new.
Hospitality Talk September 2017 Summit 25
Green summit on sustainability GreenOtels kicked off its first western region summit on sustainability in hospitality, in collaboration with HRAWI, on July 1, at the Sofitel Mumbai BKC Hotel.
eld under the aegis of HRAWI the cause have the effect. GreenOtels new perspective to sustainability and and Maharashtra Tourism, is the cause and healthier bottom lines related it simply to one’s daily life. HGreenOtels’ western region for the industry and society will be the He made a strong point when he summit was the first-of-its-kind held effect. Nature has been creating a said, “What we need is to make a for the hospitality industry in the zero-waste lifestyle for 3.8 billion years, disruptive change.” region and was attended by prominent I am confident that we can as well.” members of the industry. Nitin Gadre, Eric Ricaurte, a frequent speaker, IAS, Principal Secretary, Maharashtra The keynote address was delivered organiser, and researcher of Tourism, was the Chief Guest for the by Dr. CB Ramkumar, Director, Global sustainability measurement shared event and in his address, assured Sustainable Tourism Council, who insights into what hotels were doing the industry of all possible help eloquently explained the relevance or not doing globally, explaining and support. of climate change and sustainable further the shifts that were taking tourism. Environmental specialist, place in travel consumption. Setting the tone of the convention, Niranjan Khatri, Founder and Principal Minakshi Agarwal, Founder and CEO, Consultant, iSambhav, also addressed The day-long conference was attended GreenOtels, said, “We have to make a rapt convention as he brought a by over 100 hospitality professionals.
September 2017 Hospitality Talk 26 Supplier Talk SMART WASTE MANAGEMENT Samruddh Hegde Desai, Managing Partner, Alterenergy, talks about the urgent need for efficient waste management systems in hotels. otels are major consumers Studies have shown that more than Hotels should make an effort to of resources and contribute 60 per cent of the waste generated reduce the amount of waste they Hheavily towards generation is organic. This waste can easily produce and work towards saving of waste. Poorly managed waste be treated at the source using materials, resources, and energy. can pose a threat to health, the bio-methanation technology to quality of our environment, and generate methane gas, which can A proper waste management system place a burden on businesses and be used as a substitute for LPG. and treatment of waste at source will national economics. Additionally, the system also provides also lead to increased profit margins liquid organic slurry, which can be of the hotel and help make a clean On an average, a hotel creates used as manure for plants in land- and green India. around one kilogram of waste per scaping. The gas that is generated can Samruddh Hegde Desai guest, per night. Waste management be used for various applications such involves carrying out a proper waste as generation of power, heating audit of a hotel. To enable such an water, etc. audit, an essential step is to segregate waste at all waste generation points. With developing technology, these plants require minimal The audit will help identify the land usage, have proven issues that need to be dealt with, to be very efficient, and subsequently facilitating the prepara- have a very quick return tion of a proper waste management on investment. The govern- system, which is based on the ment also promotes such four ‘R’s- Reduce, Reuse, Recover, technologies by providing and Recycle. commercial benefits. An all-purpose, hygienic shield
Dhananjai Mediratta, Director, Diversified Green Biocides Pvt. Ltd., elaborates on Clean O’Fresh, the company’s environmentally friendly disinfectant that is 100 per cent food-safe.
he food industry employs a available in the market. The non-selective antimicrobial number of disinfectants to innovative technology offers unique properties; effectively Tensure that the food stored benefits due to its low cost and eliminates bad odour; and prepared is free from harmful environmental friendliness. and is cost-effective. bacteria and pathogens. However, Clean O’Fresh has numerous ad- most of these cleaners are based vantages over conventional alcohol The company has on alcohol and chemicals that have and chemical-based cleaners. It is also introduced a several disadvantages such as non-toxic for humans, plants, and wide range of products high cost and chemical residues, animals; is active against a broad for domestic and and often affect the quality of spectrum of bacteria; possesses commercial use. food products. Dhananjai Mediratta A PLENITUDE OF USES
Diversified Green Biocides Pvt. • Keeps meat and vegetables • Removes E. Coli from water Ltd. has tied up with a European clear of bacteria • Cleans glass and mirrors partner for revolutionary technology • Keeps food, equipment, and that offers a unique product, Clean • Removes red wine stains hands free of contamination O’Fresh, a superior, non-chemical • Does not hamper the taste, bactericide that has several • Removes odour from kitchen colour, smell or nutrients advantages over existing products waste and garbage of food
Hospitality Talk September 2017 Supplier Talk 27
A PLAY OF CLAY OVENS Munnilal Tandoor’s wood-fired ovens are easy to use,distinct, and extremely efficient. They add a flavour and quality to food that remains unmatched.
ver the past decade, the A wood-fired tandoor is different is the characteristic that makes mechanism of kitchen from the conventional tandoor in their product unique. Elucidating Oequipment has signifi- the way food is prepared and also this further, Munnilal says, “Munnilal cantly changed with change in food in the way the tandoor itself is Tandoor’s wood-fired tandoor is a choices and trends. This has been made. It has a lot of benefits in unique product in its league. There quite apparent through food terms of cooking output. One are many factors that lead to this, concepts that have transformed the cannot ignore the aroma that the most important being that our way kitchens are being designed, in blends with the food while it is equipment has an edge over others turn impacting the way equipment being cooked in a wood-fired oven. in terms of product quality and the is being manufactured. While new The aroma of wood in food offers efficiency with which it bakes. Our technologies have made way for a distinguished warmth, where wood-fired oven distributes heat new styles of equipment, there have different elements of cooking evenly, which is the most important Munnilal been some that had to go through amalgamate to produce a distinct aspect that other products in this changing food trends; the tandoor charm. Furthermore, the cooking segment fail to achieve.” (clay oven) is one of them. technique allows unique qualities or ideas of a chef to come The wood-fired tandoor imparts a Over the years, one of the foremost through clearly. rich, smoky flavour and adds an players in this domain for commer- extra dimension to the food. “Our cial kitchen equipment has been The usual question that tandoor newest creation retains the moisture Munnilal Tandoors Pvt. Ltd., having manufacturers are confronted with within food that often gets released exported its tandoors to over 30 when one cuts through the food countries in the past 51 years of item being served,” he adds. its operational history. Munnilal, Founder and CEO of the company, The tandoors also have a large says, “In today’s competitive kitchen Addressing the entrance opening that allows for landscape where food dictates the maximum visibility and easy usage. success of any hospitality outfit, the modern-day needs Furthermore, the wood-fired oven is tandoor has a niche demand. It is of kitchens, we available in steel, brass, and other an important element of any Indian materials, which make this oven commercial kitchen. We have, over have modified ideal for both domestic and com- several decades, nurtured the art the conventional mercial use. Each of the tandoors of making tandoors and ensured is hand-crafted. All products meet that this art flourishes with time. tandoors into unique, standards defined by an NSF- Therefore, addressing the modern- wood-fired ones approved listing (US) and are also in day needs of kitchens, we have line with those defined by Certified modified the conventional tandoors Gas Product listing (conforming to into unique, wood-fired ones.” CSA standards, Canada).
September 2017 Hospitality Talk 28 Trends MORE LEGROOM Hotels that have made a mark in the MICE segment of conventions and banqueting, narrate how this niche FOR MICE market has evolved over the years.
Anupriya Bishnoi years. Hindered by a noticeable drop tality players are constantly devising in groups business during demoneti- strategies to make the most of the he meetings and events space sation, there’s now more supply and segment. With umpteen options in India has undergone a highly differentiated competition. A available to customers, uniqueness Tsignificant change in recent substantial source of revenue, hospi- is the key to keeping them engaged. AASHISH VYAS General Manager Jaipur Exhibition & Convention Centre
SPACE FOR EVERY OCCASION 20 to 200 guests. JECC offers MICE POST GST Aashish Vyas Jaipur Exhibition & Convention a global platform to a range of The GST has severely impacted Centre (JECC) is a 42-acre property industries with colossal space that the MICE industry. Organisers are consisting of two exhibition halls can together accommodate more hesitating to go large scale and with a combined column space than 30,000 people at a time. cutting their budgets short in order of 20,000 sqm and an exquisite to be economically viable. JECC has witnessed integrated convention centre. The CONSTANT GROWTH constant growth facility also has open-air venue JECC has witnessed constant A recent study says that there is options that include a 5000 sqm growth in terms of business in a an overall decline in MICE bookings in business in a lawn and an expansive outdoor span of merely two years. The across India as compared to the span of merely exhibition area of 10,000 sqm. place has acknowledged a footfall same period last year. However, The auditorium in the convention of more than 3 lakh till date. on an optimistic note, we think two years centre can accommodate anywhere Our customers are our brand am- that the GST is showing short-term between 1000 and 1200 delegates bassadors. We proudly proclaim that effects and therefore, we are at a time. There are 14 breakout JECC has hosted prestigious events focusing on industries that are rooms including a VIP lounge for of national and international fame. least affected by it.
Hospitality Talk September 2017 Trends 29
GAURAV AGGARWAL Director of Catering Sales Renaissance Mumbai Convention Centre Hotel
SPACE EVERYWHERE MICE THROUGH LOYALTY the hotel that helps customers Renaissance Mumbai Our hotel has recently renovated choose us over our competitors. Convention Centre Hotel is 300 rooms and launched Quan situated in the northern suburbs Spa. This helps both old and new REVENUE SHARE of Mumbai, on the banks of customers consider us for MICE Our convention sales contribute Powai Lake. The hotel is spread over business as and when an opportu- 25 per cent of our total business. five acres, offering 230,000 sqft nity arises. More importantly, it is This is split between corporate, of indoor and outdoor banquet the brand affiliation and location of association, and wedding business. Gaurav Aggarwal space, with a capacity to accommodate anywhere between 10 to 2000 guests.
A STEADY GROWTH Banquet revenue has been growing steadily at 7 per cent, year-on-year. This is primarily driven by volumes, but the real opportunity is Average Per Cover. Customers are willing to pay if they see value and hence, our focus has been on offering customised solutions to our customers.
WEDDING SPECIALISTS Shaadi by Marriott is a new concept for Marriott in India. We realise there is tremendous potential in the wedding seg- ment and hence, have started to have wedding specialists in the sales team. These associates are experts in arranging a detailed wedding inspection or suggesting options during food tasting. Our hotel has also organised special dinner events for wedding planners where we can showcase different cuisines that we serve during a wedding as food in a 5-star hotel is a focus point. These events have helped planners sell our hotel with confidence and in turn, helped them close a particular piece of business.
MORE OPTIONS FOR LARGER GROUPS As the hotel has multiple event venue options, large groups have an incentive to choose an indoor or outdoor space depending on the theme and purpose of the event. This helps the organiser break the monotony of having the conference, ceremony or event in the same venue over multiple days. Also, offering different food options and cuisines benefits larger groups in case they are in the hotel for more than two nights.
September 2017 Hospitality Talk 30 Trends
PRATYUSH ANAND Director of Sales & Marketing JW Marriott Mussoorie Walnut Grove Resort & Spa
SPACE APLENTY with them. This structure enables A FAIR SHARE OF REVENUE Our eye-catching Grand Orchard them to earn overriding benefits Groups and catering verticals form Ballroom (the main banqueting based on achieving a pre-defined a major revenue stream for the venue at the resort) is just over revenue model. resort; put together, they account 3300 sqft, with an expansive for close to 40 per cent of the pre-function area, both indoors UNIQUE OFFERINGS total revenue. and outdoors. In a reception-style Our unique dining experiences that Pratyush Anand gathering, we can comfortably include breakfast by a stream and MARGINAL SLUMP accommodate up to 275 guests at pine forest picnics stand out as one There has been a marginal the venue. of our strongest selling propositions. slowdown post GST, mostly Hence, a lot of groups choose us in the case of individual travellers GROWTH IN DEMAND over our competitors. and families. Groups and catering There has been a substantial verticals account for growth in the MICE segment for us, year-on-year. Whether we look close to 40 per cent at intimate destination weddings of the total revenue or group incentive events, there has been an enormous increase in demand, especially over the last few years.
A BENEFICIAL STRUCTURE The resort partners with a few local and other wedding and event planners in our major feeder markets such as Delhi-NCR, Punjab, and Mumbai, and works on performance-linked bonuses
GAURAV MEHTA Director of Sales & Marketing Radisson Blu Hotel New Delhi Dwarka
UNMATCHED FACILITIES GST: A BENEFIT We collaborate with experts in the Radisson Blu Hotel New Delhi In banqueting, the effective tax business to shape the intricate Dwarka features trendsetting before GST came up to 23-35 nuances that make for spectacular interiors capturing the energy and per cent, following the Luxury Tax festivities. From online portals to style in every location of the applied by select state govern- destination management compa- property. The hotel offers 5-star ments. The GST of 18 per cent will nies, from flower decorators to artist accommodation, 20,000 sqft of thus lead to banquets becoming managers, we have the best collabo- Gaurav Mehta meeting space, recreational reasonable, consequently offering rations when it comes to quality. facilities, and is serviced by staff a huge haul to the hospitality that excels in providing international industry. That said, hotels have to REVENUE GENERATOR levels of service to its guests. We strategise accordingly. We are proud to categorise our- are a preferred hotel partner and selves as one of the best MICE At least 20 per cent the first choice of some of the PARTNERING WITH EXPERTS hotels in Delhi. At least 20 per cent of the hotel revenue biggest brands. The three banquets Our expertise in wedding planning of the total revenue of the hotel is can accommodate a combined comes from years of practice and contributed by the convention and is contributed by gathering of up to 1500 persons. settling only for the best in trade. banquet space. the convention and banquet space
Hospitality Talk September 2017 Trends 31
VIPUL KAMBOJ Director of Sales & Marketing The Leela Ambience Gurugram Hotel & Residences
VAST SPACES acquisitions team is called We also have an event services MICE industry. Hotels with Our hotel has one of the best Hunters and the retention team team that is a single point of a tariff of `7,500 or above banquet venues in Delhi-NCR is called Collectors. Hunters are contact for guests for all their are usually the ones that and can cater to big or small in the market on a daily basis to needs and last-minute requests. have large convention centres weddings at the same time. ensure that we get regular business and this change in the tax The total events and meetings for the hotel. Collectors remain DECIPHERING GST structure is definitely going to space is spread over an area in the hotel to take these leads The GST will certainly have leave an impact on MICE of 26,000 sqft, with the largest towards closing of business. an adverse effect on the business in India. venue of 9,200 sqft and a capacity to accommodate 1200 to 1400 persons.
BUSINESS WITH TIE-UPS We have a tie-up with a couple of wedding and event planners who give us regular business, which includes weddings, MICE events, and cocktail dinners. We regard them as our business partners and ensure that we work together throughout the event.
REWARDING MEETINGS We have an incentive programme for larger groups- Rewarding Meetings at The Leela, benefits of which are offered to event planners and our partners, de- pending on the scale of business.
BANKING ON TEAMWORK We have two dedicated sales teams at The Leela; the
Vipul Kamboj
The total events and meetings space is spread over an area of 26,000 sqft
September 2017 Hospitality Talk 32 Trends
NEIL PATERSON General Manager Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre and Hyderabad International Convention Centre Neil Paterson
BOUNDLESS CAPACITY property has served demand from ASSISTANCE ALL THE WAY Hyderabad International Convention both domestic and international Based on the size and requirements Centre (HICC) is a purpose-built, MICE markets. of large groups, we extend incen- state-of-the-art convention facility, tives like additional room amenities, The property has the first-of-its-kind in India, with a Recognising the vast potential of upgrades, access to the premier served demand of total size of 55,080 sqm. It features the segment in the region, our lounge, and meeting rooms for a pillarless hall measuring 6,480 facilities are set up in a manner small meetings. We also offer both domestic and sqm that can be partitioned into to match leading international business centre facilities and international MICE six smaller halls. The hall can convention standards. organiser offices, aiding the comfortably accommodate ease of planning of an event. 6,000 guests in seated capacity. DECODING THE MARKET At certain events, we have even We frequently engage with wedding A UNIQUE OFFERING accommodated floating crowds and event planners to understand Such a large convention centre of up to 10,000 guests. In the variations in market trends and being connected to a 5-star hotel addition, there are 37 breakout the changing tastes and preferences and an exhibition centre next door rooms providing added space. of guests. Throughout the year, offers a unique proposition in we also host various showcase itself. All venues are equipped MEETING GROWING DEMAND and lifestyle events focusing on with state-of-the-art audio-visual Over the past decade, we have built weddings and other social events facility, translation booths, translator a strong market presence and the to leverage this booming segment. support, etc.
SURAJ KUMAR JHA General Manager Holiday Inn Mumbai International Airport
A PILLARLESS FACILITY as well and request them to is constantly working on providing The ballroom at Holiday Inn recommend us to their family the best of services and facilities Mumbai International Airport is and friends for similar events. to our clients. As part of our a 4000 sqft, pillarless conference Retaining our loyal customers is wedding package, we offer and banquet facility. It can cater one of our priorities. complimentary individual rooms to a floating crowd of 500-700 to the bride and groom. We also persons. The capacity of the UNIQUE OFFERINGS offer an extensive menu option for Suraj Kumar Jha facility makes it popular for Our talented team of professionals the food and beverage spread. hosting large gatherings of weddings, MICE, and other corporate events in the city.
Last year, we hosted UPWARD TRAJECTORY 115 weddings and There has been a steady rise in the banquet space; we have seen an this year we are increase in events at our property. looking at conducting Last year, we hosted 115 weddings and this year we are looking at over 150 conducting over 150.
FRUITFUL COLLABORATIONS We have integrations with four decorators who recommend our property as a good hotel venue for wedding functions. We remain in touch with all previous clients
Hospitality Talk September 2017 Event 33
BENGALURU TO HOST FHRAI CONVENTION The 52nd FHRAI Annual Convention will be held in Bengaluru, the Garden City of India, from September 14-16, 2017. The event will feature a diversity of activities that will showcase the best of the region.
engaluru, the capital city offers comprehensive meeting Other hotels where arrangements of Karnataka, is home to and event facilities. have been made for the stay of Bscenic parks and famous delegates are ITC Gardenia, The memorials, apart from being one The inaugural ceremony, that will Lalit Ashok, Radisson Blu Atria, of the major IT hubs of the country take place on September 14, The Chancery Pavilion, 37th that gives it the name, Silicon Valley will be followed by two days of Crescent Hotel, Tulip Inn, and of India. The annual convention of business sessions. The prestigious Ashraya International Hotel. FHRAI is returning to the city after FHRAI Awards will be given on The organising committee of more than two decades. September 16. The awards have the convention has invited been instituted to encourage and numerous dignitaries who will The theme of the convention, recognise entrepreneurial leadership be gracing the occasion with Hospitality 2025 – The Future and individual professional excellence. their esteemed presence. is NOW, is inspired by globalisation and technology that have changed the traditional ways that the hospitality industry conducts business, propelling it rapidly into a promising future. Being held at Shangri-La Hotel, Bengaluru, the event will witness three days of networking, imparting of knowledge, inspiration, and more importantly, the celebration of Indian hospitality.
Shangri-La Hotel, Bengaluru, was launched with the city's largest accommodation inventory offering 397 rooms and suites. It
September 2017 Hospitality Talk 34 Awards
Maya honours TheT fourth edition of East India Travel Awards travelled to the North East region of Guwahati for the very first time and celebrated excellence in the region's travel and tourism industry.
Ahana Gurung inaugurated by R Sudhan, Special persuade more entrepreneurs to Secretary (Tourism), Government explore these frontiers.” or the first time in Guwahati, of Manipur, who was also the efforts of stalwarts in the the Chief Guest for the SanJeet, Mentor, India Travel Ftravel and tourism industry award ceremony. Awards, added, “Today, tourism of East India were honoured over is synonymous with progress and an evening of merriment and Speaking about the importance development and is echoing around entertainment at Radisson Blu of such events in the region, the country. Every small hotel, Hotel Guwahati on July 26, 2017. Sudhan stated, “I sincerely believe restaurant, attraction, tourist shop Gathering the region’s movers such events should happen more contributes to the growth of this and shakers from states of Sikkim, often, especially in this part of industry but are we doing enough Odisha, West Bengal, Assam, the country, which does not to recognise them? We’ve instituted Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur and receive much attention. We are these awards for this precise several others, the event was certain that the awards can reason. The regional awards
HospitalityHospitality TTalkalk SeptemberSeSeptp emmbeber 2017220017 Awards 35
East India stars
recognise those establishments ment to become future leaders. to the winners. A total of 41 award that may not be able to see the Business Awards were for those categories were presented to day of light on a national level. The organisations that have done travel, tourism, and hospitality industry is now growing by leaps outstanding work in their field and front runners. Dilip D Khatau, and bounds and these small efforts deserve accolades, while Trending Chairman, The Corbett Foundation make a big difference.” Awards were decided on by critics. and Chairman, Conservation Finally, Partner Awards were for the Corporation of India, joined the The awards were divided into partners that made the awards Gallery of Legends, while Tsering four categories that included ceremony a grand success. Wange, Managing Director, Personal Awards, Business Awards, Himalayan Holidays, was honoured Trending Awards, and Partner The glitzy night was also graced as the DDP Trailblazer. Additionally, Awards. Personal Awards were by the presence of the Guest of Supratim Raj Basu, Founder for legends and leaders who have Honour, Arni Sapkal, Gladrags Mrs and Director, Help Tourism, established themselves and for India Mumbai 2017, who, along was conferred the DDP Game youngsters who deserve encourage- with R Sudhan, awarded the trophy Changer award.
SeptemberSeSeppttemembbeer 201720201717 HospitalityHospitality TTalkalk 36 Awards
Hospitality Talk September 2017 Awards 37 38 Awards
Gallery of Legends DDP Trailblazer Dilip D Khatau Tsering Wange
DDP Game Changer Entrepreneur of the Year Supratim Raj Basu Manoj Saraf, Gainwell Travel and Leisure
Best General Manager Best Global Distribution System (GDS) Vikas Ray, Radisson Blu Hotel Guwahati Travelport Galileo
Best MICE Operator Best Debut Hotel iCON Planners Holiday Inn Kolkata Airport
Hospitality Talk September 2017 Awards 39
Best Corporate Hotel Best Luxury Hotel Brand Golden Tulip Salt Lake City Kolkata MAYFAIR Hotels & Resorts
Best National Tourism Office Best Debut City Hotel Destination Canada Ramada Darjeeling Gandhi Road
Best Business Hotel Best Cultural Tourism Destination Radisson Blu Hotel Guwahati Department of Tourism, Government of Manipur
Best Luxury Hotel Best Luxury Resort JW Marriott Hotel Kolkata Polo Orchid Resort, Cherrapunji
September 2017 Hospitality Talk 40 Awards
Excellence in Customer Service Best Foreign Exchange Company Hotel New Orchid, Gangtok Centrum Direct
Best Eco-friendly Hotel Best Event Management Company – Wedding Planners Holiday Inn Kolkata Airport MAP 5 Events
Best Eco-friendly Resort Best Casino Hotel Infinity Resort Kaziranga MAYFAIR Spa Resort & Casino, Gangtok
Best Contemporary Hotel Best Theme Wedding Organiser Vivanta by Taj - Guwahati Jet Setters
Hospitality Talk September 2017 Event 41
HPMF TO CELEBRATE 7TH ANNIVERSARY IN JODHPUR Hospitality Purchasing Managers’ Forum (HPMF) is a consortium of procurement managers from the hospitality industry representing star hotels, catering companies, stand-alone restaurant chains, and airlines.
PMF will be celebrating DAY 1 meetings on both days. In the its seventh anniversary at Delegates will be welcomed to second half, 30 top suppliers of HIndana Palace Jodhpur, the vibrant city of Jodhpur. As the India will have face-to-face Rajasthan, from September day progresses, they will visit sites meetings with them. In the 14-16, 2017, with a convention of historical significance in Jodhpur. evening, HPMF Awards for and award ceremony as part of the A traditional sit-down dinner will Procurement Excellence in programme. The unique concept ensue at one of the most Hospitality Industry will take place. of ‘Seven Elements of the beautiful palaces here. These awards will seek to Universe’ will seek to bring together motivate industry participants procurement managers of different DAY 2 towards working for a better, more organisations on one platform. The The first day of the convention successful tomorrow. Some of the synergy, co-ordinated efforts, and will see the inauguration ceremony. award categories would be passion with which work is done Several presentations and panel Emerging Procurement Person of will lead to the establishment of discussions that will delve on the the Year, Procurement Person of the a better environment for procure- latest trends in organic procure- Year (Male), Procurement Person of ment in hospitality. Delegates at the ment and the future of hospitality the Year (Female), Best Hospitality three-day event will experience the procurement will be conducted. This Procurement Team, Best grandeur of palatial mansions and will set the tone for the convention. Sustainable Development be transported back to the regal era Sensitive Procurement that has gone by. They will revel in DAY 3 Team, the Living the soulful music emanating from Apart from the keynote Legend award, etc. the desert sands and relax their presentation, there will be two senses at the majestic property panel discussions and four that is a perfect fusion of historical presentations on different subjects elegance and modern luxury. covering the entire spectrum of hospitality procurement. The way What to expect? ahead for purchasing managers, The three-day event will further green hotels, organic procurement, strengthen HPMF’s commitment to and tips for being a successful the development and expansion of buyer are just some of the subjects the purchasing and procurement that will be covered in the presenta- fraternity, with due recognition tions that will be delivered by senior being given to those who have leading working professionals. made a mark in the industry, contributing towards the Delegates will be given the achievement of this cause. opportunity to conduct B2B 42 Event
India Hospitality Awards to soon dazzle Delhi India Hospitality Awards (IHA) will be travelling back to Delhi for its third edition. The event will be held at The Lalit New Delhi on September 29, 2017.
he third edition of India says, “The Indian hospitality industry of the best hotels in Delhi, it has Hospitality Awards will be has evolved a great deal over the great convention facilities. We have Tconducted in line with the last few years. It is so big that it is got an overwhelming response and previous two editions. A formal unmissable on the global hospitality I am sure the show is going to be a black-tie ceremony, the dazzling map. Without the effort of people great success.” event will be attended by associated with it, I don’t think the well-known personalities of the industry would have reached where Some of the prominent India industry. The awards are supported it has now. India Hospitality Awards Hospitality Award winners from by Ministry of Tourism, Government is a token of appreciation, more the previous editions are- Ankur of India, and other esteemed than mere acknowledgment, of Bhatia, Vilas Pawar, Nitin Nagrale, trade bodies. Elucidating the the dedication and toil that people KB Kachru, JB Singh, Sanjiv Tyagi, trajectory that the awards have of the industry have put in. We Zorawar Kalra, Monica Suri, seen since their inception, are hosting the third edition of the Rajindera Kumar, Rupak Gupta, and Gunjan Sabikhi, Convener, IHA, awards at The Lalit New Delhi. One Luv Malhotra, among several others.
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Hospitality Talk September 2017
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September 2017 Hospitality Talk
Chef Talk 51
Served in style JW Marriott has made a niche in the market with its signature restaurants. Vivek Bhatt, Executive Chef, JW Marriott Hotel New Delhi Aerocity, talks about the USP of the restaurants, their marketing strategies, and the evolution of the culinary scene in the market.
HT Bureau selected Club Marriott members, travellers who are well versed with a and table management systems, variety of cuisines available across Tell us about the USP of the portals, and social media. The idea the globe. This new age, globe- restaurants housed in the hotel. is to project and sustain its image trotting trend has subtly compelled Each of our restaurants has crafted as the best buffet restaurant and people to try out new cuisines and a niche for itself with its consistent New Delhi’s food theatre. For Akira hence, helped them in expand- food and service quality, and the Back, we focus primarily on HNIs, ing their experience with food. The array of options available to choose corporates, high-end associations, same is applicable for restaurant from in both vegetarian and and our database of high-spenders. and hotel owners, who are well trav- non-vegetarian variants. K3 is very We market Delhi Baking Company elled and have brought new ideas popular for a scrumptious buf- for its freshly baked breads, scrump- and innovations to the F&B industry Vivek Bhatt fet, offering an array of delectable tious cakes, pastries, and sand- in India, providing Indian audiences cuisines ranging from Cantonese wiches. JW Lounge is majorly for increased options to choose from. and Tuscan to Indian (Mughlai). walk-ins and our resident guests. The Sunday brunch at K3 is one of In terms of food habits, do you see the best in town. Akira Back serves How challenging is organising large a transition in the region? renowned chef Akira Back’s modern scale events? How do you cope with Health and wellness have majorly Our guests are Japanese cuisine with a Korean the challenge? taken over food and dietary essence, while JW Lounge is the Huge gatherings make delivery requirements, and it has grown accomplished perfect place to meet over a cup of of service more interesting rather leaps and bounds. Emphasis is now travellers who are tea and sliders or an intimate than challenging. With guests from also on fresh produce turned into meeting in the cabanas over some various demographics, it becomes authentic delicacies by our master well versed with a of our signature beverages. Delhi essential for us to deliver timely and culinary craftsmen. variety of cuisines Baking Company is revered for its flawlessly, and at the same time, delicious pastries, sandwiches, tea, strive to exceed their expectations How do you respond to guest coffee, and single origin chocolates. with excellent food. UHTXHVWVIRUPRGLÀFDWLRQWRIRRG" We strongly believe in serving What is your marketing strategy to How has the palate of diners authentic, handcrafted dishes to promote F&B in the hotel? evolved over the years? our patrons as we want them to A marketing strategy varies from People have become more aware of experience the real taste of a dish, restaurant to restaurant. For K3, it what they want and how they want in turn allowing their palates to is our regulars, demographically it. Our guests are accomplished experience different options.
September 2017 Hospitality Talk 52 Interview
CARLSON’S RIGHT MIX IN GOA Pooja Patti, General Manager, Country Inn & Suites By Carlson, Goa Candolim, talks about the uniqueness of the property and the evolution of Goa as a tourist destination.
How is the hospitality industry in meetings, cocktail dinners, What kind of challenges do you face Goa faring? entertainment, etc. The online being in Goa? The hospitality industry of Goa segment too contributes to this Though there has been improve- has been on a growth trajectory demand as it has a much wider ment in recent years, Goa has constantly for the past few years. reach and provides ease of booking to concentrate on improving the There has been an influx of hotels through mobile applications. condition of its roads. The local across brands and the total available transfer fares have to be rooms in the city has nearly doubled. What makes your brand tick modulated as there are no set The city has seen occupancies of in a market teeming with other rules or guidelines and more often approximately 75 per cent, however, prime properties? than not, customers feel short- the ARRs have been slightly affected Each hotel has its niche offering and changed with the high fares quoted Pooja Patti with an increase in supply of Country Inn & Suites By Carlson, for chauffeured vehicles. The available rooms and hotels have Goa Candolim is a mixed blend of overall infrastructure also has to been focusing on RevPAR. business and leisure. The hotel offers be improved and more avenues a meeting space of over 2800 sqft for guest entertainment or engage- How do you cope with fall in with a pillarless ballroom that is one ment need to be developed. We focus on demand in the off-season? of the largest in the locality. Also, maintaining During the off-season, there is the hotel is a mere 700 metres from Tell us about your clientele. competition everywhere as all hotels the beach, making it conveniently Our hotel has guests from across quality of our want to secure business. We witness located and within easy reach, while ages and market segments. The products and services a lot of deals breaking or business being away from the hustle and clients range from youngsters and moving to other hotels due to budget bustle of the busy Candolim streets. honeymooners to families, senior in order to retain constraints from the client’s end. As far as dealing with competition is citizens, and business travellers. The existing clients The life-saver for the off-season is concerned, we focus on maintaining hotel offers an old-world charm as the MICE segment, which contributes quality of our products and services it is built to exude Indo-Portuguese in a big way both in terms of room in order to retain existing clients as architecture that offers contemporary nights and additional revenue from well as build a loyal customer base. and modern facilities.
Hospitality Talk September 2017 Movements 53
RAVNEET KAUR Chairperson and Managing Director India Tourism Development Corporation
Ravneet Kaur, an IAS officer of 1988 batch, Punjab cadre, has been appointed as the Chairperson and Managing Director of India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC). She succeeds Umang Narula, an IAS officer of the J&K cadre. Prior to this role, Kaur was Joint Secretary in Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion under Ministry of Commerce and Industry. In a span of 29 years, she has served OS multiple prestigious positions in various capacities. MOVEMENTS
MONICA SURI SANJAY GUPTA General Manager General Manager Jaipur Marriott Hotel Le Méridien Gurgaon, Delhi NCR
Monica Suri has joined as Le Méridien Gurgaon, Delhi NCR the General Manager at Jaipur has appointed Sanjay Gupta as Marriott Hotel. She brings with the General Manager of the hotel. her over 17 years of experience Gupta joins this property after a in the hospitality industry. She successful stint at Le Méridien commenced her journey as a Jaipur. Under his lead, Le Méridien Hotel Management Trainee with Jaipur significantly grew its top-line Taj Hotels and Resorts in the food along with guest satisfaction scores. and beverage service department Gupta has also been instrumental and later worked in Ahmedabad for in establishing Le Méridien a year before relocating to Tanzania, Coimbatore, the newest hotel in East Africa. Later, Suri was ap- India by Starwood Hotels & Resorts pointed as the General Manager at and the 100th Le Méridien hotel Le Méridien Kochi. globally for the brand.
B MADHUSUDHAN NAIR EAM Food & Beverage Howard Johnson Bengaluru Hebbal
B Madhusudhan Nair has taken up the position of EAM, F&B, at Howard Johnson Bengaluru Hebbal. Prior to this appointment, he had been as- sociated with The Royal Orchid Hotels for around two years. Nair has also held other positions such as Assistant F&B Manager, The Leela Palace Bengaluru; and Head of Department, Food and Beverage, The Chancery Pavilion, Bengaluru. 54 Talking People
JASWINDER NARANG NASIR KHAN VIJAY KRISHNAN RISHI CHOPRA Complex General Manager General Manager General Manager General Manager Sheraton Grand Pune Fariyas Resort Lonavala Alila Fort Bishangarh Le Méridien Bund Garden Hotel & Le Mahabaleshwar Méridien Mahabaleshwar Resort & Spa Resort & Spa
Mahabaleshwar in I unwind by walking, In India, I prefer My favourite Maharashtra is my reading books, travelling to Kochi cuisine is Oriental, favourite destination and watching and internationally, with Japanese food in India” offbeat cinema” I prefer Dubai” topping the list”
I enjoy travelling as it offers a I unwind by walking, I unwind by listening to Travel helps in enriching great opportunity to experience reading books, watching music by Eric Clapton, Stevie one's perspective towards varied cultures and taste offbeat cinema, listening to Wonder, and Modern Talking life. I enjoy spending time in scrumptious local cuisine. music, going on long drives, or just taking a walk around natural surroundings. Thus, When it comes to domestic and at times, cooking for the fort. I am passionate when it comes to domestic travel, Mahabaleshwar in the family. I am passionate about my job and the people travel, I like to unwind at the Maharashtra is my favourite about learning new things I work with. One thing about beach resorts in Goa and destination in India. in the field of hospitality. me not many people know also revel in the tranquil Internationally, Vancouver in One thing about me not is that I am a huge cricket experiences that Kerala has Canada is my all-time favourite many people know is that fan and keep track of all to offer. I also like to travel to place; I also have some fond I can cook some very good cricket records. I also enjoy understand new cultures and memories of travelling to Egypt Indian kebabs and curries. travelling and one of my experience local markets. and Turkey. I loved travelling One of my most memorable most memorable holiday Maldives remains my all-time to Morocco with my family, holiday moments was moments was when I visited favourite destination for its particularly to the mesmerising when I was working in Ranthambore National pristine waters and activities. cities of Casablanca and Delhi and took an impromptu Park with my wife and My favourite cuisine is Marrakech. I like taking time break and drove down to children where we sighted Oriental, with Japanese food out to watch movies; my Mumbai with my wife. tigers. In India, I prefer topping the list. I also love all-time favourite movies My favourite holiday travelling to Kochi and taking time out to play chess, include classics like Ben-Hur destinations in India are internationally, I prefer one hobby that has stayed and The Sound of Music. Dehradun and Dharamsala. Dubai as a holiday destination. with me since childhood.
Talking People is our attempt to know more about our industry members beyond their workplace.