Author: HBI Staff | Hyderabad
The Hospitality Purchasing Managers’ Forum (HPMF) has entered into a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Wine Growers Association of India (WineGAI), a leading body representing Indian wine producers. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in enhancing procurement expertise, product knowledge, and global sourcing capabilities for hospitality professionals in India. The MOU was officially signed today, solidifying a commitment to mutual growth, knowledge sharing, and industry development. The partnership will focus on creating specialized training programs, fostering direct engagement with wine producers, and streamlining the procurement process for quality wines within the hospitality sector. Speaking on the occasion, Dr.…
Starting April 1, the Goa Tourism Department will require all hotels and guest houses to upload guest demographic data using the Tourist Information Management Enterprise (TIME) software. This initiative aims to generate real-time analytics on tourist demographics and travel patterns, facilitating strategic interventions and enhancing the state’s hospitality ecosystem. Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte stated that hotels must provide information such as guest age group, country of origin for foreign visitors, state for domestic visitors, duration of stay, and purpose of visit. Tourism Director Kedar Naik assured that only broad demographic data, not personal details or identity documents, will be collected.
Hotels with room rents exceeding INR7,500 per day at any point during a financial year will be categorized as “specified premises” starting April 1, 2025. According to a clarification by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), restaurants operating within such hotels will attract 18% GST with input tax credit (ITC). The taxability will now be determined based on the value of supply (transactional value) instead of the earlier “declared tariff” concept. Declared tariff previously included the total charges for amenities such as furniture, air conditioning, and refrigerators, irrespective of any discounts offered on the published rates. The…
GRT Hotels & Resorts has launched The GReaT Patashala, a virtual learning YouTube channel aimed at enhancing hospitality training through bespoke Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) videos. GRT Hotels initially developed the SOP videos for internal training, the initiative has now been expanded to benefit hotel management students, industry professionals, and aspiring hospitality talent. This initiative marks a significant milestone, as GRT Hotels becomes one of the first hotel chains in India to offer such comprehensive educational content to the industry. The launch event at Grand Chennai by GRT Hotels featured esteemed guests, including Mr. Venkatesan Dhattareyan, Regional Director (South) of…
IHG Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hotel companies, has signed a management agreement with Girija Land Ventures Pvt Ltdto develop Crowne Plaza Resort Jim Corbett. Scheduledto open in Q1 2027, the signing marks the debut of the Crowne Plaza brand in Jim Corbett, reinforcing IHG’s commitment to expand its portfolio in well-known leisure destinations across the country. As one of world’s largest premium hotel brands with locations in city, airport, resort and suburban destinations, Crowne Plaza is perfectly placed to meet the needs of today’s guest, whether they are travelling for business, leisure, or a blend of…
Mercure, dedicated to celebrating local experiences since 1973, continues its growth in India with the opening of Mercure Lucknow Gomti Nagar, a gateway to the multicultural capital of Uttar Pradesh. Capturing the essence of Awadhi heritage, Mercure Lucknow Gomti Nagar invites travellers to immerse themselves in the city’s rich history and craftsmanship. The lobby draws inspiration from the city’s traditional Chikankari embroidery, an intricate craft originating from Mughal architectural carvings, creating an inviting space that reflects Lucknow’s rich cultural legacy. Each of the 109 rooms and suites features thoughtful design elements that capture the spirit of the city. Mercure Lucknow…
Digital travel platform Agoda has outlined how hotels across Asia can embrace the preferences of Gen Z travelers to ensure they are adequately future proofing their business. The call comes as Agoda research reveals the top five travel habits of Asian Gen Z, outlining a generation that finds inspiration in the digital realm, embraces spontaneity, and values shared experiences. The survey highlights the unique ways travelers aged 18-27, more commonly known as Gen Z, are shaping the future of travel in Asia with a fresh perspective, not only by influencing travel trends but also by setting the stage for future…
Essentia Hotels & Resorts is set to elevate Bangalore’s hospitality landscape with the management signing of a premium hotel with its latest luxury offering, strategically located to cater to the city’s dynamic blend of business and leisure travelers. Continuing to propel the brand’s footprint, the new property promises a sophisticated experience, blending contemporary elegance with world-class amenities, reflecting the cosmopolitan vibe of the city. This 100-key luxurious hotel boasts plush accommodations, an all-day dining restaurant, a specialty rooftop eatery, and expansive event spaces, including a 6,000 sq. ft. banquet hall and multiple meeting venues. Guests can experience the uplifting warmth…
Holiday Inn Chennai OMR IT Expressway in collaboration with the Royal Thai Consulate-General, Chennai inaugurated ‘Tasteful Tales of Thailand’, a specially curated food festival celebrating the rich flavors of Thailand. The grand inauguration event, held on 20th March 2025, was graced by Racha Aribarg (Consul-General, Royal Thai Consulate-General, Chennai), esteemed dignitaries from the Royal Thai Consulate and Divakar Shukla (General Manager, Holiday Inn Chennai IT OMR Expressway). This exquisite festival was specially curated by celebrity Chef Vina from Thailand, bringing guests the finest and most authentic flavors from the Land of Smiles. Using traditional Thai ingredients and cooking techniques, Chef Vina…
Spaceman Spirits Lab Pvt Ltd, (Spaceman), the pioneering craft spirits company behind the now iconic SAMSARA gin, is set to redefine India’s spirits landscape once again with the launch of AMARA, an Artisanal Pink Vodka. Infused with exotic fruit and delicate floral botanicals, AMARA has been crafted from premium grapes and rice grains and refined through a five-fold distillation process. Positioned in the Super-Premium category, AMARA will compete with global vodka brands known for their smoothness and exceptional quality. AMARA is expected to become…
