Author: Amit Mohile
The hotel industry in India had a breakthrough year in FY25, but some players were more significant than others. In a rate-driven recovery that increased revenues overall while rewarding strategic operators even more, Chalet Hotels, Juniper Hotels, and Lemon Tree Hotels stood out according to analysis by India Ratings & Research (Ind-Ra). It isnt that legacy operators have left behind as Indian Hotels Company Ltd. (IHCL) and ITC Hotels managed to maintain their position among the legacy by relying on scale, prestigious locations, new openings and premium pricing across luxury destinations. Chalet, Juniper Ride Rate Power to Outperformance According to…
A significant shift is underway in Maharashtra’s liquor market. This week, the state government approved sweeping changes to its excise policy, potentially transforming the alcoholic beverage landscape by favoring homegrown products over foreign-label bottles. Homegrown beer, wine, and Maharashtra-Made Liquor (MML) are positioned to gain market share from Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL), which has been the dominant force in the state’s alcohol trade for decades. This is not just a minor policy adjustment; it could lead to a major change in consumer preferences across India’s wealthiest and most influential alcohol market. For years, IMFL — including whiskies, vodkas, and…
The Indian Hotels Company (IHCL) is accelerating its expansion under its “Accelerate 2030” plan, having signed and opened five new hotels in strategic locations across India and South Africa in less than a month. Since May 20, 2025, IHCL has secured agreements for several new properties, including Vivanta Mysuru (signed on June 10), Gateway McLeodganj (signed on June 4), Taj Pushpabanta Palace in Agartala (signed on May 21), Taj Alibaug Resort & Spa (opened on May 20), and Taj Safari Lodges in Kruger National Park, South Africa (signed on May 29). Suma Venkatesh, Executive Vice President of Real Estate &…
By Amit Vijay Mohile, Contributing Editor, Travelbizmonitor.com, hospitalitybizindia.com In India’s vibrant cities, a shift in beer consumption is underway, fueled by an adventurous urban Generation Z and a surge of investment in the craft beer and microbrewery sector. With over INR 350 crore in recent VC and PE funding, microbreweries and artisanal brands are scaling fast. Despite regulatory hurdles, investors are betting big on India’s growing thirst for small-batch, flavorful, homegrown beers. The Money Trail: VCs Catch the Craft Wave What began as a niche pursuit is now a full-blown industry trend. India is currently home to over 300 microbreweries,…
