HBI Staff | Hyderabad 
The 19th edition of HICSA, hosted by Hotelivate, is set to spotlight “Savouring South Asia: Innovations in Food Tech and Design” showcasing the evolving hospitality ecosystem in South Asia. With a focus on food technological advancements, the conference which is scheduled on 3-4 April, aims to foster dialogue, investment exploration, and networking opportunities, shaping the future of the industry. Featuring global CEOs and exclusive interviews, HICSA 2024 promises to be a dynamic platform for exploring trends and best practices in the hospitality sector. From reducing food waste to promoting sustainable practices, the conference seeks to unlock the region’s culinary potential while addressing challenges such as food security and environmental impacts. The event will also feature panel discussions, keynote sessions, and awards ceremonies, offering a comprehensive experience for industry professionals and enthusiasts alike. Hospitality Biz reports…
Commenting on the 19th anniversary of HICSA, Manav Thadani, Founder Chairman – Hotelivate said “We are excited to bring HICSA 2024 again this year to the “Silicon Valley of India”. This year we are focusing on the aspect of technology in our business and no other city would be more appropriate than this one. India is the heart of South Asia’s thriving hospitality industry and this year’s conference promises to be a dynamic platform for exploring investment prospects, trends, and best practices, and to network with the industry’s brightest minds. We believe HICSA will set the stage for numerous investment ventures in this rapidly evolving region. We are extremely grateful for the support we have received from our delegates, patrons, speakers, and sponsors as we come together in celebration of all things remarkable in food, beverage, and hospitality.”
Vikram Lalvani, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited, expressed his thoughts on India’s contributions to food-tech innovations and their impact on the hospitality industry. He emphasised the importance of the HICSA theme on innovative food technology for a sustainable culinary future, highlighting its role in addressing challenges such as food security, environmental impact, and resource efficiency.
Lalvani stressed the need for solutions to reduce food waste, “I think food waste reduction and the use of smart solutions around this is not only the need of the hour but is imperative for a sustainable solution ahead. Real-time inventory management systems, smart packaging, and storage are some of the ways to tackle food wastage at every point of the value chain – from production to consumption. These are relatively easy implementable solutions in hotels and resorts,” he said.
He also mentioned that the promotion of organic farming in their resorts as a way to minimise wastage and offer a sustainable dining experience. Emphasising the progress being made by startups, he said, “From a national perspective, our country has a rich culinary heritage with a diverse agricultural landscape. For us to make significant progress in this space, the dynamic ecosystem of start-ups, entrepreneurs, farmers, and policymakers has started making headway for a more sustainable and inclusive food system.”
This year’s HICSA will feature the presence of three global CEOs at their prestigious conference, which brings together participants from the hospitality, real estate, and investment industries. The 19th Edition of the conference will have Sébastian Bazin, Chairman & CEO of Accor, Mark S. Hoplamazian, President & CEO of Hyatt Hotels Corporation, and Federico J. González, Executive Vice-President of Radisson Hotel Group, as speakers.
Accor promises nonstop potential and opportunities with its tagline – “Live Limitless”. In a thought-provoking keynote session at HICSA2024 titled “Live Limitless: Going ALL The Way”, Sébastian Bazin – Group Chairman & CEO – Accor,will talk about his vision in the ever-evolving hospitality scape. “We are proud to be partnering with Hotel Investment Conference South Asia for their 2024 event. HICSA is an incredible platform for the global hospitality industry, bringing us together in India – a country which is alive with endless potential for the travel sector and unique experiences. It is clear that India’s moment is now, actively shaping tomorrow’s journeys and paving the way for the future of hospitality. Our collaboration with HICSA reflects our commitment to India and our vision to become a true trailblazer in this vital market”, said Sébastian. He has a finance background and has held various leadership roles in the hospitality sector. He joined Accor’s Board in 2005, became its Chairman and CEO in August 2013, and chairs the Gustave RoussyFoundation’s Board. Additionally, Sébastien has been on GE’s Board since 2016 and took on the role of CEO for Accor’s Luxury & Lifestyle division in January 2023.
“We are proud to be partnering with Hotel Investment Conference South Asia for their 2024 event. HICSA is an incredible platform for the global hospitality industry, bringing us together in India – a country which is alive with endless potential for the travel sector and unique experiences. It is clear that India’s moment is now, actively shaping tomorrow’s journeys and paving the way for the future of hospitality. Our collaboration with HICSA reflects our commitment to India and our vision to become a true trailblazer in this vital market”, said Sébastian.
He has a finance background and has held various leadership roles in the hospitality sector. He joined Accor’s Board in 2005, became its Chairman and CEO in August 2013, and chairs the Gustave RoussyFoundation’s Board. Additionally, Sébastien has been on GE’s Board since 2016 and took on the role of CEO for Accor’s Luxury & Lifestyle division in January 2023.
On Day 1, the conference will feature some exclusive interviews and keynote addresses in an endeavour to make the event more content rich. The day will close with the ‘HICSA Hotels of the Year Awards’ presented by MakeMyTrip, that recognizes the most remarkable new hotel developments in the South Asian region. The nominations include hotels across six categories: Luxury/Upper Upscale Hotel; Upscale Segment; Upper Mid-Market Segment; Mid-Market Segment; Budget/Economy Segment; Boutique Hotel Segment. The winners will be shortlisted by a designated jury and then finally determined by the HICSA 2024 delegates through a voting process and announced as part of the conference program.The first full day of the conference will culminate into a ‘Culinary Carnival’ – a celebration of gastronomy, bringing together talented chefs, artisanal food vendors, and passionate hoteliers at the JW Marriott Bengaluru Prestige Golfshire Resort and Spa. In line with the theme this year, the focus will be on a gastronomic extravaganza. A diverse and mouth-watering array of dishes from celebrated restaurants, both standalone as well as in hotels, across India will showcase their cuisines, from street food classics to gourmet delicacies. Marriott International, ITC Hotels, InterContinental Hotel Group, Massive Restaurants, The Leela Hotels, Resorts & Palaces, Hyatt International and Atelier House Hospitality and would be some of brands showcasing their top restaurants.
Accor, a leading player in the hospitality industry, is gearing up to showcase its endless potential and opportunities at HICSA2024. Under the theme “Live Limitless: Going ALL The Way,” Sébastien Bazin, Group Chairman & CEO of Accor, will delve into his vision for the future of hospitality. The keynote session promises to offer insights into the dynamic and ever-evolving landscape of the industry, highlighting Accor’s commitment to innovation and excellence. With its tagline “Live Limitless,” Accor aims to inspire and redefine the boundaries of hospitality, setting the stage for a transformative experience at HICSA2024.
“We are proud to be partnering with Hotel Investment Conference South Asia for their 2024 event. HICSA is an incredible platform for the global hospitality industry, bringing us together in India – a country which is alive with endless potential for the travel sector and unique experiences. It is clear that India’s moment is now, actively shaping tomorrow’s journeys and paving the way for the future of hospitality. Our collaboration with HICSA reflects our commitment to India and our vision to become a true trailblazer in this vital market”, said Sébastian.
He has a finance background and has held various leadership roles in the hospitality sector. He joined Accor’s Board in 2005, became its Chairman and CEO in August 2013, and chairs the Gustave RoussyFoundation’s Board. Additionally, Sébastien has been on GE’s Board since 2016 and took on the role of CEO for Accor’s Luxury & Lifestyle division in January 2023.
In an exclusive interview, Manav Thadani – Founder Chairman of Hotelivate, will engage with Federico J. González – Executive Vice Chairman – Radisson Hotel Groupand CEO – Louvre Hotels Group in a conversation centered around “Happiness and Change”. Commenting on this edition of HICSA, Federico said “HICSA is a platform to explore and capitalize upon untapped growth opportunities within the multitude of destinations in India. As one of the largest international hotel groups in the country, Radisson Hotel Group remains committed to deepening its presence in this vibrant market. The engaging discussions at HICSA will provide an opportunity to not only address the challenges confronting the industry but also to collaboratively map out the areas of upliftment within the sector. At Radisson Hotel Group, we are actively driving change through industry-leading initiatives such as the Hotel Sustainability Basics and a commitment to Net Zero. Our diverse portfolio of country-specific brands as well as our growth strategy and recent accolade as ‘Best Hotel Chain – South Asia by Pacific Area Travel Writers Association (PATWA) International Travel Awards’ at ITB Berlin 2024 stand as a testament to our focus in India as well as our commitment to excellence.” Federico has extensive global executive leadership experience in hospitality, leisure, and FMCG. He was CEO of NH Hotel Group and Deputy GM of Disneyland Paris. He also held senior roles at Procter & Gamble. Federico is known for his marketing expertise and has authored three books. He advocates for ambitious profitability, purpose, and diversity in organisations.
On Day 1, the conference will feature some exclusive interviews and keynote addresses in an endeavour to make the event more content rich. The day will close with the ‘HICSA Hotels of the Year Awards’ presented by MakeMyTrip, that recognizes the most remarkable new hotel developments in the South Asian region. The nominations include hotels across six categories: Luxury/Upper Upscale Hotel; Upscale Segment; Upper Mid-Market Segment; Mid-Market Segment; Budget/Economy Segment; Boutique Hotel Segment. The winners will be shortlisted by a designated jury and then finally determined by the HICSA 2024 delegates through a voting process and announced as part of the conference program.The first full day of the conference will culminate into a ‘Culinary Carnival’ – a celebration of gastronomy, bringing together talented chefs, artisanal food vendors, and passionate hoteliers at the JW Marriott Bengaluru Prestige Golfshire Resort and Spa. In line with the theme this year, the focus will be on a gastronomic extravaganza. A diverse and mouth-watering array of dishes from celebrated restaurants, both standalone as well as in hotels, across India will showcase their cuisines, from street food classics to gourmet delicacies. Marriott International, ITC Hotels, InterContinental Hotel Group, Massive Restaurants, The Leela Hotels, Resorts & Palaces, Hyatt International and Atelier House Hospitality and would be some of brands showcasing their top restaurants.
Day 2 of HICSA will feature curated panel discussions and mini keynote sessions with industry leaders. Post the famous “Hot Seat: Leaders on Fire”, which will bring to light leadership dilemmas, the conference will ultimately conclude with the prestigious MakeMyTrip General Manager of the Year Awards 2024. While the Hotel Operations Summit India (HOSI) took a hiatus in 2023, our commitment to celebrating excellence in the hospitality industry remains steadfast. These awards have been seamlessly integrated into HICSA as a part of the main conference. These awards are a wonderful opportunity to recognize and highlight the hard work and outstanding performance displayed by the General Managers untiringly running the show. The closing dinner will be at Falak, The Leela Bhartiya City as the perfect end to this event. The 19th edition of HICSA promises to be a remarkable convergence of insights, innovation, and inspiration, offering an unforgettable experience that will leave a lasting impact.
Tags: 19th HICSA Accor Alan Watts - President - APAC Anuraag Bhatnagar - Chief Executive Officer Asia - Premium culinary innovations design Dimitris Manikis - President and MD EMEA Garth Simmons - Chief Executive Officer Hilton Hotelivate's Hotels and Resorts MakeMyTrip Marriott International Mid-Scale & Economy Rajeev Menon - President - APAC (excd. Greater China) Rajesh Magow - Co-Founder and Group CEO showcase South Asia's The Leela Palaces Wyndham Hotels & Resorts
