THE HOTEL BOOM THAT REFUSES TO SLOW DOWN

India's hotel sector may be entering a new era as it breaks the cyclical nature of its growth with record revenues, bold partnerships, and a new trajectory.

- SUMAN TARAFDAR

One of the enduring paradigms of Indian hospitality over the past few decades has been the strong sense of circularity. "2024 was great; we hope the trend continues," confided a hotelier off the record at the end of that landmark year, which saw record occupancies and signings. Well, the crest hasn't yet been reached. The first half of 2025 is not just holding up, but it will go down in history as a landmark period for the sector.

Not only have most markets held onto their occupancies and rates, but what has been even more remarkable is the number of deals. Whether mergers or acquisitions, partnerships or strategic alliances, even signings-there has never been such a bounty. The launch of Marriott's Series, an India-first brand for the hospitality major, in collaboration with CG Corp Global, who have extensive properties around India, was a huge step, arguably making it the largest hospitality brand in India.