The MRG Group stands as a shining example of vision, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, a legacy established by its founder, Dr. K. Prakash Shetty. Since its inception in 1993, the group has grown into one of India’s leading hospitality entities, operating 11 hotels across the country, all owned and managed in-house.
Over the years, MRG Group has forged strategic partnerships with global hospitality giants such as Marriott International and Hilton, solidifying its position in the luxury hospitality market. These collaborations have brought international standards of service to the group’s properties while maintaining the distinct charm and warmth synonymous with MRG’s brand ethos.
Today, under the dynamic leadership of Gaurav Shetty, Managing Director of MRG Group, the company has expanded its portfolio to include urban hotels, luxury leisure destinations, and fine-dining restaurants like the iconic Sana-di-ge. The group has also embarked on ambitious mixed-use projects, such as the Goldfinch City in Mangalore, which combines hospitality, retail, and commercial spaces to redefine the region’s urban landscape.
“We ensure each property under MRG Group has its distinct personality while maintaining the highest standards of hospitality,” says Shetty. “Profitability is driven by operational efficiencies, a guest-centric approach, and strategic investments, all while staying true to our brand ethos.”
MRG Group’s flagship Goldfinch Hotels has established itself as a prominent player in urban hospitality. With plans to expand into high-demand cities like Hyderabad, Chennai, Gurugram, Ahmedabad, and Pune, the brand aims to capitalise on both business and leisure travel markets.
“Goldfinch is well-positioned to meet the demands of urban travellers,” explains Shetty. “Our focus is on delivering premium hospitality experiences while optimising operational efficiencies to enhance profitability.”
The group’s urban properties cater primarily to business travellers with seamless services, strategic locations, and corporate tie-ups. On the other hand, their leisure destinations focus on immersive experiences and wellness offerings, aligning operational strategies to maximise occupancy and revenue across distinct market segments. “The approach to urban and leisure destinations differs based on guest expectations and market dynamics. In urban locations, we cater primarily to business travellers by offering seamless services, strategic locations, and corporate tie-ups. Leisure properties, on the other hand, focus on immersive experiences, wellness offerings, and destination-driven activities. By aligning our operational and marketing strategies with these distinct segments, we ensure sustained revenue growth and high occupancy rates.”
The group’s fine-dining brand Sana-di-ge has become synonymous with authentic and high-quality dining experiences. With plans to expand to metropolitan cities and introduce selective cloud kitchen initiatives, the group is focused on scaling this successful concept profitably.
“Our fine-dining brands, particularly Sana-di-ge, have built a strong reputation for authenticity and quality. We see tremendous potential for expansion in key metropolitan cities and are focused on growing the brand through a combination of flagship locations, and selective cloud kitchen initiatives,” Shetty states. “As we scale, our priority is to maintain exceptional dining experiences that stay true to the brand’s heritage.”
“Experiential dining is evolving rapidly, and we are continuously innovating to stay ahead. From immersive culinary journeys to interactive chef’s tables, we are elevating the dining experience beyond just great food. Personalisation and locally inspired menus are key focus areas, ensuring that we not only enhance guest loyalty but also maintain strong financial viability,” Shetty added. These efforts align with emerging trends, positioning MRG Group as a pioneer in the fine-dining space.
Beyond profitability, MRG Group’s social responsibility initiatives, such as the Sana-di-ge-backed ‘Ahara’ program, demonstrate its commitment to community welfare. “‘Ahara’ reflects our core values—compassion and community service,” says Shetty. “While not a commercial initiative, it strengthens our brand’s goodwill and enhances trust among guests and stakeholders.”
The Goldfinch City project in Mangalore is a testament to MRG Group’s forward-thinking approach. Combining hospitality, retail, and lifestyle amenities, this mixed-use development aims to transform Mangalore into a key investment and tourism destination.
“Goldfinch City is envisioned as a landmark development that will redefine Mangalore’s urban landscape. This mixed-use project will bring together hospitality, retail, commercial spaces, and lifestyle amenities, creating a thriving ecosystem for business and leisure. Our goal is to position Mangalore as a key investment and tourism destination, leveraging our expertise in real estate and hospitality,” explains Shetty.
While MRG Group’s current focus is on expanding its domestic footprint, the group is also exploring global collaborations. Strategic partnerships with Marriott International and Hilton for projects in Goa, Sakleshpur, and Chikkamagaluru underscore the group’s commitment to blending global standards with local cultural experiences.
“As of now, MRG Group’s expansion strategy is primarily focused on strengthening its presence within India. We have plans to increase our portfolio to over 3,500 keys by 2035, combining properties under Goldfinch brand with strategic partnerships involving international brands,” Shetty reveals. “This growth strategy includes developing properties under our Goldfinch brand and forming strategic partnerships with international brands like Marriott and Hilton. By diversifying our offerings and entering high-growth markets such as Hyderabad, Chennai, Gurugram (Delhi NCR), Ahmedabad, and Pune, MRG Group aims to tap into dynamic economic regions with increasing demand for premium hospitality services.”
MRG Group has a knack for weaving regional heritage into its luxury projects, catering to niche markets with unique cultural themes.“MRG Group has a history of blending heritage with luxury in its projects. For our hospitality ventures, we have successfully tied up with international chains such as Marriott International and Hilton for upcoming projects in Goa, Sakleshpur and Chikkamagaluru respectively. This collaboration aims to offer guests a blend of global standards and local cultural experiences. MRG Group’s emphasis on luxury, comfort, and innovation suggests a commitment to creating unique living experiences that may appeal to niche markets.”
The hospitality industry faces fluctuating demand, rising operational costs, and increasing competition, particularly in the luxury segment. MRG Group addresses these challenges with a demarcated strategy based on property size.
“For hotel assets with more than 100 keys, we collaborate with international brands to leverage global standards and broader market reach. For properties with
fewer than 100 keys, we operate under their own Goldfinch brand, allowing for more personalised service and operational flexibility. This approach enables our group to manage resources effectively and cater to diverse market segments.”
