Global hotel chains step up India presence as luxury demand rises
Multiple global hotel chains are gearing up to establish their presence in India, while current hospitality brands are rolling out new luxury and lifestyle properties. Dusit made its much-anticipated return to India last year, and Hyatt is activel...
New Delhi: India's expanding hospitality sector is set to get more vibrant as new international hotel chains plan their entry, while existing ones introduce new luxury and lifestyle branded properties.
Singapore-based luxury chain Banyan Tree is seriously evaluating opportunities in India, people familiar with the matter told ET. Ireland-based Kerten Hospitality announced its India entry this March, with an initial plan for around 1,000 keys. Banyan Tree didn't respond to an email query.
Thailand-based Dusit made an India comeback last year, while Hyatt is actively scouting for locations for its boutique hotel brand Standard acquired as part of its $335 million purchase of Standard International in 2024. Marriott International is planning to introduce its big box hotel brand Marriott Marquis and mid-scale brand City Express in India, while Hilton is working on the launches of Waldorf Astoria hotels.
Marriott announced the global launch of the Series by Marriott portfolio in India through a deal with Concept Hospitality last year. IHG Hotels & Resorts said it is launching its Kimpton brand in India through a deal with Adani Airport Holdings in May. Last October, ITC Hotels unveiled its new brand called Epiq Collection to accelerate growth in the premium segment. Chalet Hotels also announced the launch of ATHIVA Hotels & Resorts last year, while Sayaji Hotels has incubated the Altara luxury hotel vertical focused on wedding and MICE demand. Nandivardhan Jain, founder and CEO at NOESIS Hotel Advisors said 2025 and 2026 are the 'widest wave' of first-time brand entries in India witnessed since the 2007-2010 period. He said the rise and launch of new brands in India has been 'steep'.
