The second day of the Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI) annual convention, a vibrant hub of hoteliers, restaurateurs, and industry experts, delved into a range of critical topics shaping the future of India’s hospitality landscape. From sustainability and emerging restaurant trends to the burgeoning wedding tourism market, discussions centered on strategies for enhancing business operations and propelling growth within the sector.
The day commenced with a powerful message from the Honourable Minister for Road Transport & Highways, Mr. Nitin Gadkari, who expressed unwavering support for the hospitality industry. Highlighting its significant contribution to the Indian economy, he emphasized the government’s commitment to fostering tourism through the development of religious and tourist destinations, enhanced infrastructure, and the creation of new expressways and facilities. With the completion of 18 new tourist destinations on the horizon, the government is actively striving to attract both domestic and international visitors, contributing to job creation and economic growth.
The convention’s agenda then turned towards the evolving dynamics of the hospitality industry. Mr. Manav Thadani, Founder Chairman of Hotelivate, provided insightful perspectives on the sector’s post-pandemic recovery, emphasizing the changing needs and preferences of modern travelers. Mr. Chander Baljee, CMD of Royal Orchid Hotels, further underscored the importance of agility and digitalization in remaining competitive in the evolving marketplace.
Sustainability emerged as a central theme throughout the day, with a panel led by Mr. Gurmit Singh Arora exploring regenerative practices that balance guest satisfaction with environmental responsibility and profitability. Experts from ITC Hotels and Accacia shared their expertise and insights on how to implement sustainable practices across various aspects of the hospitality experience.
Ms. Mugdha Sinha, Director General of Tourism at the Ministry of Tourism, presented a compelling case for reimagining India’s approach to attracting international wedding tourism. She highlighted the need for seamless experiences for foreign guests, emphasizing the importance of direct flight connectivity, simplified visa processes, and curated, unique itineraries that showcase the rich cultural tapestry of India. With a significant market share of 54% of Indians spending over 10 lakhs on weddings, the ‘Big Fat Indian Wedding’ has evolved into a major economic force. This market, second only to China, presents unparalleled opportunities for growth in the hospitality sector. The convention’s focus on wedding tourism also emphasized the potential for promoting honeymoon packages and milestone celebrations, further solidifying India’s position as a premier wedding destination globally.
The convention also delved into emerging trends within the restaurant and wedding industries. A session on restaurant trends, led by Mr. Rahul Akerkar, shed light on innovations in dining experiences and the increasing role of technology in enhancing customer engagement. The rapidly growing wedding industry was another key focus, with Mr. Siddhartha Chaturvedi discussing how hotels can capitalize on the rising demand for luxury wedding venues, presenting substantial revenue opportunities for the sector.
FHRAI President, Mr. Pradeep Shetty, concluded the day by highlighting the industry’s unwavering commitment to addressing key challenges and embracing new opportunities. The discussions throughout the convention reflected the hospitality sector’s dedication to driving growth, creating jobs, and prioritizing sustainability while remaining competitive in a dynamic and evolving market. The event concluded with a sense of optimism, highlighting the Indian hospitality industry’s pivotal role in propelling India’s economic development and job creation, reinforcing its vital contribution to the nation’s growth story.