Luxury is not confined by geography

The eighth edition of the prestigious BW Hotelier Indian Hospitality Summit & Awards (IHA 2024) hosted the BWH Leadership Dialogues: Regional leaders on India’s growth trajectory including industry veterans and experts, with moderator Farhat Jamal, Chairman - Travel, Tourism and Hospitality Committee, IMC Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mumbai hosted the dialogue session with other panel members including Zubin Zaxena, SVP & Regional Head - South Asia - Hilton, Anil Chadha, Chief Executive - ITC Hotels, Sudeep Jian, MD, Southwest Asia - IHG Hotels and Resorts, Anuraag Bhatnagar, CEO, The Leela Palaces, Hotels & Resorts, Mohit Nirula, Chief Operating Officer - Oberoi and Trident Hotels.

He delved into the topic of focus on investment and development strategies specific to emerging markets within India, including Tier II and Tier III cities. The dialogue session discussed the potential for growth, the challenges faced, and the innovative approaches being adopted to tap into these markets.

Zaxena commented, “Hilton is set to double its operating portfolio in India in the next three years. Growth in India will come from Tier 2 and even Tier 5 & 6 markets. That's where the real expansion opportunity exists.”

Chadha contributed to the discussion stating, “Spiritual and religious destinations, such as Ayodhya and Tirupati, are great opportunities to expand. These opportunities can help you grow your average rates.”

Talking about The Leela’s presence in the luxury sector, Bhatnagar commented, “Luxury is not confined by geography but it is defined by the experiences that you create in the locations in which you operate.”

“The fundamentals are very strong, we are the fastest-growing economy. It's a great industry to be in from a trading and growing standpoint,” Jain said while talking to the BWH media team.

The two-day BW Hotelier Indian Hospitality Summit & Awards (IHA 2024) encompasses over 20 sessions where hospitality veterans and experts across the nation gather in order to provide diverse knowledge and insights. The Summit & Awards is a testament to BW Hotelier’s commitment towards revolutionising Indian hospitality by honouring the Crème de la crème of the industry.