Our Loyalty Programs Gives an Edge Over Others : Reuben Kataria, GM, JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru

BENGALURU HOSPITALITY market has shown a sudden rise in the last few years. Giving its credit to the IT and start-up industry, the city is witnessing more of business travellers. The demand-supply ratio is on a positive note and the industry is definitely expecting more out of it. BW Hotelier spoke to Reuben Kataria who has been recently appointed as the General Manager of JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru. He spoke about the recent trends, his challenges and his vision for the hotel.

How do you see the hospitality market in Bangalore?

With preliminary numbers, the city is expected to close with positive growth over the last year. This is due to the additional supply in the market, which has opened opportunities for large format events that were initiated for Bengaluru earlier.

How do you compete with the other brands in Bangalore?

JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru thrives on brand value and services. We are also known for our loyalty programs, which gives us an edge over others. This sets us apart from other luxury brands in a competitive market like Bengaluru. Our brand loyalty with elite guest has been key in driving results, which is why we are witnessing growth year on year.

Brief us about the USPs of the hotel?

JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru is located in the heart of the Central Business District of the Garden City. Nestled next to UB City overlooking the verdant Cubbon Park, the hotel is an exemplary synthesis for business and pleasure.

We are minutes away from Commercial & Shopping Areas of MG Road, Brigade Road, Lavelle Road and Commercial Street. The Hotel is 35 minutes from Bangalore International Airport and is easily accessible from Whitefield, Electronic City and State Government offices.

As a General Manager, what are the challenges faced by you?

As a General Manager, we focus largely on the sustainability of the business. This is driven through associates who are in daily interaction with the guests, being the representative of the brand at each point. Quality manpower has always been our criteria to maintain the commitment that Marriott International provides to its guests. The company is investing in nurturing, developing, educating and training the new talent to remain at pace with the demand.

What are the recent trends among travellers you are witnessing?

Travellers are well informed and tech-savvy with a change in business. It requires a lot of attention to delivering quality service in no time. Some major work that is required to make the guest experience better is to build connectivity and ease of operation between traveller and Hotels.

What is the current ADR and RevPar of the hotel?

We are closing the year with five digits in ADR (Average Daily Rate) and upward growth of five percent over last year in RevPAR.

What is your vision for JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru, or your future plans?

JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru with an emphasis on world-class hospitality, signature brand programs and personalized service, will continue its focus on elevating the guest experience. With a strong focus on training and empowering the team, the hotel aims to create memorable moments for the guests.