The Wizard of Free Kick

In the annals of world soccer, yesteryear Dutch footballer Ruud Gullit is always remembered as an accurate free-kick taker. Halfway around the world in the Indian state of Kerala, a diehard fan of this versatile player is employing the same skills in the entrepreneurial arena. V.A. Ajmal, who climbed unconquered heights in the retail industry in Kerala and blazed a bright trail, has now set the ball rolling on an altogether new turf. In an exclusive interview with Unique Times, this Kochi-based business magnate opens up on his new voyage into the unexplored realms of the hospitality industry armed with his proverbial Midas touch.

- Ranjit L. Morris

An astute businessman and a dyed-in-the-wool fan of the Netherlands team in world soccer, Ajmal is all set to take the shot with confidence in the altogether new field of boutique resorts, a novel concept that is yet to become a fad in God’s Own Country. Zealously clinging to the adage that fortune favours the brave, he has taken the leap of faith by launching Alpz Properties to tap the vast unmeasured potential of the new vistas and trends in the hospitality industry.

Unlocking the Potential of Boutique Resorts 

Speaking to Unique Times, Ajmal said that his group is going to set up boutique resorts in major tourist destinations of south India to make the most of this trend that is bourgeoning elsewhere in India and abroad. They comprise small resorts that provide personalized, exclusive hospitality to a close-knit group of guests with all trappings of luxury. “Instead of going for big resorts, we go for a villa-style property with all top-notch amenities for one small group at a time—be it families, friends, or corporate gatherings,” he explained.

According to the veteran businessman, who began his innings as the uncrowned czar of the white goods and food retail segment at the dawn of the millennium, his Alpz Properties is investing Rs 250 crore in hospitality. His boutique resorts are slated to come up in picture-postcard locations such as Kuttikkanam, Vagamon, Munnar, Bekal, Alappuzha, Panangad, Varkala, Muthalamada and Wayanad in Kerala. He is planning to roll out six properties by the end of next year as part of Phase 1. Plans are also afoot to open the remaining within the next couple of years.