Asmita Mukherjee | Hyderabad 
With plans to add 143 hotels globally by 2027, ibis has identified India as a key player in its ambitious expansion strategy. In an exclusive conversation with Asmita Mukherjee, Tejus Jose, Director of Operations for ibis & ibis Styles India, delves into the brand’s growth plans, focus on localisation, sustainability initiatives, and efforts to redefine guest experiences while maintaining its hallmark of value and quality.
ibis has plans to add 143 new hotels and 17,474 rooms globally by 2027. What role does India play in these expansion plans, and what are your specific goals for ibis India and ibis Styles in the coming years?
India plays a pivotal role in ibis’ global expansion strategy. As one of the fastest-growing economies, with an ever-expanding middle class and a burgeoning travel industry, India offers immense potential for growth. We are very clear on markets we wish to grow in and will pursue opportunities accordingly.
As the Director of Operations, how do you plan to balance brand consistency with adapting to local market needs, especially in a diverse and dynamic market like India?
As you rightly said the secret lies in the right ‘balance’. While brand consistency ensures our guests know what to expect at any ibis property, adapting to the unique preferences of Indian travelers is essential. Our design philosophy has evolved to embrace local culture, making sure each property feels connected to its surroundings. By staying in tune with guest feedback and market trends, we ensure that the ibis brand remains true to its essence while also reflecting the unique character of each location.
ibis has been a pioneer in sustainable practices and technology adoption. Could you share some upcoming initiatives in India to enhance guest experiences while aligning with sustainability goals?
Sustainability is an integral part of our ethos, and ibis India is continually working towards creating environmentally responsible and guest-centric hospitality experiences. To minimize single-use plastics, we have transitioned to recyclable materials for toiletries and stationery and have always used wall-mounted dispensers for shampoos and shower gels. Plastic bottles have been replaced with glass water bottles, supported by mineral water bottling plants at select properties.
In addition, several of our hotels feature electric vehicle charging stations, encouraging cleaner transportation options.
Energy efficiency is a high priority for us. Natural lighting is utilized in meeting rooms and restaurants, solar energy is leveraged for day-to-day operations and periphery lighting, and coal or gel fuels have been eliminated from most of our operations. In many of our hotels a large amount of the electricity is sourced from ‘green’ sources. We are also adopting sustainable food practices, prioritizing local and seasonal products, and introducing initiatives like food waste management systems.
These efforts collectively reflect our dedication to sustainability, enhancing guest experiences while reducing our environmental footprint.
With over two decades of experience, what do you identify as the biggest challenges and opportunities in the Indian hospitality market today? How is ibis addressing them?
The Indian hospitality market is at an important point right now. One of the biggest challenges is finding the right balance between affordability and quality, especially in the mid-range hotel segment. But this challenge also gives us a chance to think creatively and offer great value. At ibis, we focus on providing consistent quality, using technology to improve guest experiences, and staying flexible to meet the changing needs of travelers. Another challenge is the rising cost of running hotels, which we manage by being efficient with resources and using sustainable practices. But the real opportunity lies in India’s growing interest in unique travel experiences, and ibis is ready to meet this demand with local touches and memorable guest experiences.
With a rapidly growing mid-scale hotel segment in India, how does ibis differentiate itself from competitors, and what are the key drivers for your brand’s continued success?
What sets us apart is our ability to consistently deliver value without compromising on quality. ibis has earned its reputation as a reliable, modern, and guest-focused brand. Our commitment to innovation, whether through new technology or personalized service, helps us stay ahead of the curve. Key factors in our continued success include our strong brand, prime locations, and our ability to adapt to the changing needs of travelers. Additionally, our focus on sustainability and local offerings aligns with the values of today’s more mindful traveler.
How has ibis India adapted its operational strategies post-pandemic to ensure steady growth while maintaining a focus on safety, guest satisfaction, and profitability?
Since the pandemic, we’ve adopted a more flexible way of running things. We’ve made safety a top priority, with contactless services and strict hygiene practices now being a core part of the experience. We’ve also embraced digital tools to make our operations smoother and more efficient. On the financial side, we’ve focused on cutting costs where we can, without affecting the quality of service our guests expect. By putting guest well-being at the forefront and using technology to improve our processes, we’ve managed to rebuild trust and continue growing, even in a tough market.
