In today’s evolving hospitality landscape, where personalisation and purpose-driven collaborations are becoming paramount, Bengaluru Marriott Hotel Whitefield has embraced an innovative approach to corporate gifting. At the heart of this transformation is Anjali Naik, Director of Sales and Marketing, who has been instrumental in fostering meaningful partnerships with local organisations, such as Diya Innovations, to craft unique, socially conscious Diwali hampers. In an interaction with Hospitality Biz Naik shares the thought process behind this collaboration, how it reflects Marriott’s core values, and the broader impact of integrating hyper-local talent and sustainability into the hotel’s offerings.
Could you share the thought process behind Marriott Whitefield’s decision to collaborate with smaller hyper-local organisations like Diya Innovations for your Diwali hampers? How did this partnership come about?
Our intent is to give a platform to the truly deserving artists and give back to the society in our own way. This year, while brainstorming ways to make a meaningful impact, we decided to do more than just do the usual. We wanted to do something that will have a social impact and decided to partner with a NGO to include them in our efforts, spreading love and joy by supporting their cause through this collaboration.
How do you ensure that working with hyper-local vendors helps in bringing out the cultural nuances of the region in your offerings, especially in something as personal as festive hampers?
Each offering curated by the local NGOs carries a unique story, and we wanted these stories to reach homes across India making the receiver feel a part of a larger cause. We met with the artisans and had in-depth conversations to understand their history, background, and how creating these handmade toys brings them fulfillment and a sense of self-esteem and acceptance within the community.
In your experience, how important is it for hotels like Marriott to support local talent and organizations? What impact does this have on both the local community and the hotel’s brand image?
Diya Innovations is more than just a business; they are on a mission to empower individuals with intellectual disabilities by offering them opportunities in an inclusive environment.
While these Diyas and toys could have been sourced from wholesale dealers at a lower cost to boost profitability, we wanted to be part of something that is for the greater good this festive season. By supporting small businesses that uplift talented individuals we felt we have inched a little closer to Marriott’s core values, heritage and what the brand stands for.
Additionally, this partnership aligns with our focus on sustainability and reviving childhood memories through simple, handcrafted toys—now often overshadowed by technology.
Could you elaborate on the sustainability practices incorporated into your collaborations, especially with vendors like Diya Innovations? How do you balance luxury with sustainability in corporate gifting?
The growing awareness of our communities’ heightened vulnerability to climate change has inspired us to adopt eco-conscious practices, including the use of biodegradable and recycled materials, while moving towards a zero-waste approach. Diya Innovations use toxin-free raw materials, which align seamlessly with Marriott’s commitment to sustainability
How has the concept of corporate gifting evolved over the years, and how is Marriott Whitefield embracing this shift?
Corporate gifting is evolving every year, with a growing emphasis on meaningful and sustainable options that create a lasting connection and stand out. As experts in curating specialized and personalized hampers, we’ve successfully forged strong connections and have seen consistent year-on-year growth in our revenues in this segment
Do you see this initiative with Diya Innovations as part of a long-term relationship? How do such collaborations contribute to Marriott Whitefield’s overall ethos of creating meaningful partnerships?
Yes for sure as both the organisations believe in sustainability and supporting local artisans with special needs. Our people first culture, giving people from different communities with different abilities a chance to shine is what sets us apart and help create incredible stories year after year. At the hotel we have team members with special needs and are believers of being inclusive in our hiring programs. This synergy with Diya Innovations made us pick them as partners.
From your perspective, are you seeing a broader trend in the hospitality industry towards working with local artisans or organizations for events and gifting? How does this align with the changing expectations of today’s customers?
Yes, very much. The consumer today is experiencing an overload of technology and there is a disconnect with nature and emotions, which we all enjoyed during our younger days before technology took over our lives. Hence, with our personalised hampers, we are adding that special touch with the toys and Diyas which we feel will bring a smile and take people back to simpler times.
