Home-grown mid-segment hotel brands have a competitive edge against international brands in India

Bangaluru, 10/December/2024: Hotelogix, a leading global provider of cloud-based hospitality technology, has released a comprehensive white paper examining the opportunities and challenges that home-grown mid-segment hotel brands face in competition with their international counterparts. The white paper reveals that domestic brands are not just surviving but thriving in a market dominated by global hotel brands. These young and dynamic properties capture around 60% of the total branded rooms in the country, demonstrating resilience and innovation within the competitive Indian hotel industry.

The white paper “The Rise and Rise of India’s Home-grown Mid-segment Hotel Brands” (download the white paper) is one of the few publications focusing on domestic mid-segment hotel brands. It provides valuable insights from leading hoteliers who have successfully established a niche in this segment. The paper aims to uncover opportunities and offer guidance on navigating challenges to create a unique identity while meeting the distinct needs of their guests.

According to the insights presented in the white paper, domestic mid-market brands with limited inventory are poised for significant growth in tier 2, 3, and 4 cities. This surge is driven by international brands’ considerable challenges in establishing operational capabilities in these regions, where a remarkable 80%-85% of demand comes from domestic sources. Echoing the same sentiment, Aryavir Kumar, Managing Director of The Clarks Hotels & Resorts, says, “In 2023, domestic mid-market brands accounted for about 66% of all hotels added. Of this, 53% were in tier 3 and 4 cities.”

According to Vikramjit Singh, Founder & CMD of Alivaa Hotels and Resorts, home-grown hotel brands capitalize on their strength over international players in drawing flexible contracts with suppliers with competitive cost structures, flexible agreements, and exit terms, which helps them with rapid expansion in tier 2, 3, and 4 cities. “In 2023, approximately 70% of hotels signed were domestic brands, with an average of 70 rooms per property,” says Vikramjit.

Philip Logan, Chief Operating Officer of Royal Orchid Hotels, explains that domestic brands have the flexibility to quickly utilize world-class, home-grown hospitality technology solutions. This gives an edge to domestic brands as these solutions are not only cost-effective but also better suited for Indian markets. Whereas international brands often face restrictions in their choice of technology due to the need for policy uniformity globally. “Access to cost-effective, made-in-India cloud-based solutions like Hotelogix is a significant advantage for home-grown mid-segment hotels,” says Philip.

“Hotelogix has a unique advantage in working with small, large, and growing domestic hospitality enterprises. It allows us to understand their opportunities and challenges while competing with international rivals. Our white paper aims to engage industry professionals and stakeholders in discussions about exploring innovative strategies to empower home-grown brands and help them flourish on a larger scale,” says Aditya Sanghi, CEO of Hotelogix.

Despite their success, challenges remain. Domestic brands face hurdles in attracting top talent, navigating complex regulatory landscapes, and brand perception that international players bring. They also need to up their game to compete with the established presence of international chains in tier-1 cities. “The allure of global brands poses a challenge for domestic players in terms of talent acquisition and retention,” noted Jaideep Ahuja, Managing Director & CEO of Ahuja Residency.

Yet, the outlook remains optimistic. Data shows a remarkable 70% surge in contracts for domestic hotel brands, with expectations that the Indian hotel market will reach USD 47.50 billion by 2030. The white paper ultimately positions domestic brands as not just participants but as future leaders in the evolving hospitality landscape.

Netplus Gains National Long Distance License, Poised for Nationwide Operations

New Delhi, December 10, 2024: Netplus, a leading broadband and internet service provider under the umbrella of the renowned Jujhar Group, has achieved a significant milestone by securing a National Long Distance (NLD) license. This license enables Netplus to operate on a Pan-India basis for Point-to-Point (P2P) and Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) services to deliver high speed broadband, smart telephony & OTT services, further cementing its position as a key player in India’s telecommunications landscape.

The NLD license is a testament to Netplus’s commitment to enhancing connectivity solutions and expanding its service portfolio. With this authorization, Netplus is now poised to offer high-speed, reliable, and secure connectivity solutions to enterprises, small businesses, and individuals across the country. The move is expected to drive digital transformation across industries, bridging the urban-rural divide and contributing to the government’s Digital India vision.

Mr. Arshdeep Singh Mundi, Executive Director, Netplus Broadband, expressed his enthusiasm about this milestone, stating, “Securing the NLD license marks a transformative moment for Netplus. This license not only strengthens our ability to provide strong connectivity solutions but also aligns with our mission to empower businesses and individuals with seamless internet services. With P2P and MPLS offerings, we aim to redefine how data and communication networks are accessed and utilized across the nation.”

“Netplus has always been synonymous with excellence and innovation. Obtaining the NLD license is a testament to the hard work and vision of our team. It motivates us to extend our services to every corner of the country, fulfilling our goal of becoming a trusted partner in India’s digital transformation journey.”

Since its inception, Netplus has carved a niche for itself in the broadband and telecommunications sector with its innovative services and customer-centric approach. The introduction of P2P and MPLS services on a Pan-India basis will further enhance Netplus’s ability to cater to diverse customer segments. P2P services ensure secure and dedicated data connectivity between two locations, meanwhile, MPLS services provide businesses with efficient and scalable solutions enabling seamless communication and data transfer between multiple locations.

The company’s focus on technology-driven solutions and its commitment to ensuring uninterrupted connectivity have been instrumental in its success. By leveraging the expertise of the Jujhar Group, Netplus has expanded its footprint across regions, maintaining a stronghold in key markets. As Netplus embarks on this new chapter, the company is optimistic about the opportunities that lie ahead.

Last Chance to Apply: Amrita University Ph.D. Admissions for January 2025 Intake

Hyderabad, 10th December 2024: Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham announces the closing of Phase 2 Ph.D. admissions for the January 2025 intake on 22nd December 2024. Aspiring scholars can explore research opportunities across diverse domains, including Engineering, AI, Humanities, Management, and Medical Sciences, supported by world-class infrastructure and access to globally renowned advisors.

Amrita offers exceptional benefits, including scholarships of up to ₹35,000 per month for full-time scholars, research funding worth ₹25 lakhs, and collaborations with prestigious international universities like the University of Buffalo and Politecnico Di Milano. Eligible candidates with a postgraduate degree (60% or above) can apply, with NET/GATE qualifiers eligible for direct interviews.

Solitario Expands into Malaysia with New Lab-Grown Jewelry Store in Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, 10th December, 2024 : Solitario, India’s premier luxury lab-grown diamond brand, has announced the grand opening of its first flagship store in Malaysia. Located within the prestigious Seibu shop-in-shop store at the TRX Exchange Mall in Kuala Lumpur, the 1000-square-foot space marks a significant milestone in the brand’s ongoing international expansion.

With the global jewellery market increasingly turning towards sustainable luxury, Solitario has rapidly positioned itself as a leader in the lab-grown diamond sector. The opening of this new store in Kuala Lumpur in quick succession to the brand’s successful operations in Dubai underscore this growing demand for ethically sourced, high-quality diamond, while opening new markets for the brand in the APAC Region.

Facilitating the strategic expansion, Shreya Gems has acquired the franchise rights for Solitario Diamonds in Malaysia. The Malaysian operations will be led by industry veterans Purav Shah and Krunal Mehta, who bring a wealth of expertise in luxury retail and contemporary jewelry design.

On the feat, Ricky Vasandani, CEO, Solitario, said, “We’re excited to introduce our lab-grown diamonds to Malaysia. The market here is exceptionally promising, and we anticipate a 100% increase in growth in the coming years. Our focus will remain on offering timeless designs and an unparalleled shopping experience that blends sophistication with sustainability. Our vision is to redefine luxury in the diamond industry, and Malaysia will play a key role in that journey.”

As consumer preferences shift, there is growing interest in lab-grown diamonds, especially among younger, eco-conscious consumers who prioritize sustainability without sacrificing quality or design. Solitario’s new Kuala Lumpur store is set to meet the demand for elegant, ethically sourced, and innovative jewellery.

Speaking about the franchise, Purav Shah, MD, Shreya Diamonds emphasized on the role of changing consumer preferences in driving the brand’s success, “There has been a steady shift in audience preferences towards lab-grown diamonds. Consumers today are not just looking for beautiful jewellery; they want pieces that reflect their values. Capturing this, Solitario’s designs embracing global contemporary trends, combining sophistication with sustainability. As the demand for lab-grown diamonds continues to rise, this strengthens our commitment to staying at the forefront of design and luxury.”

Solitario’s new Kuala Lumpur store will feature a curated collection of lab-grown diamond jewellery, from engagement rings to bespoke pieces, all crafted with the brand’s signature quality and craftsmanship. The store’s design promises an immersive, luxurious shopping experience, making every visit as special as the diamonds offered.

The 5 Dynamic Writers of 2024: Featuring Kalki 2898 AD, Laapataa Ladies, and More

Every series you binge. Every film you watch. Every episode you enjoy. One common thread binds your content consumption patterns. In the end…it’s the writing that strikes a chord! Good writers can turn the most ordinary of instances into a memorable moment. Luckily enough, 2024 was blessed with many such writing talents. Here’s a look at 4 wordsmiths who left an indelible impact with their craft this year:

Sneha Desai (Laapataa Ladies):

Laapataa Ladies was one of the rare films that not only shared a strong social message through its plot, but also managed to do it without ever sounding preachy. A large part of the credit must go to Sneha Desai, the maestro responsible for the film’s engaging screenplay and endearing dialogues. It was her nuanced sensibilities that ensured no scene in the film overstays its welcome and no line in the script seems unrealistic. The fact that the movie was also a commercial success goes on to prove that good cinema eventually does win at the end of the day.

Moni Singh (Pocket FM’s Devil Se Shaadi)

It’s not just films and shows, the audio format also found many admirers as it continued to witness massive growth. Blending edge-of-the-seat writing with interesting subjects, the audio world is truly changing how people engage with content. One such gifted personality who has written a widely loved audio series is Moni Singh. The artist behind Pocket FM’s immensely popular Devil Se Shaadi audio series, Ms. Singh lends a certain sense of originality and authenticity to her work. Hailing from a quaint town in Bihar, Moni has been empowered on a social and financial level through her writing exploits, and also built a loyal fanbase at Pocket FM.

Nag Ashwin (Kalki 2898 AD)

The man behind 2024’s most ambitious bet, writer-director Nag Ashwin gave India a movie that stands toe to toe with any international project in Kalki 2898 AD. One of the best parts was that the film never sacrificed good writing at the altar of big scale. May it be Amitabh Bachchan, Kamal Hasan, Deepika Padukone or Prabhas, the script gave each and every character an organic and relatable arc that tied in with the larger plot of the film. From stunning visuals, impeccable acting to stellar writing, Kalki 2898 AD proved that Indian cinema is now global in its vision and yet local in its heart.

Abhishek Chaubey (Killer Soup)

After brilliant dark comedies like Ishqiya and gut wrenching pieces like Sonchiriya, Abhishek Chaubey created a web series with his signature style of layered filmmaking. Starring an electric Manoj Bajpayee and an exquisite Konkana Sen Sharma, Killer Soup was an 8 episodic gem that would leave you chuckling with its black humor and shocked with its unexpected twists. Neatly tied up with an ending that leaves one stunned, Abhishek once again proved why he is an artist worth vouching for.

If one were to flash back to take a bird’s eye view of 2024, it would be clear that the year was underlined by great stories and powerful writing. Films, audio series or web shows, there wasn’t a single platform where the unique writing didn’t stand out. As we enter a new phase in 2025, here’s hoping many more such interesting talents come our way!

ThoughtSol Opens New Corporate Office in Noida to Boost Expansion

New Delhi, India – December 10, 2024 – ThoughtSol, a leading name in technology solutions, is thrilled to announce a defining moment in its journey, the launch of its brand-new corporate office at ATS Bouquet, Sector 132, Noida. What began years ago in a partner’s study room has now transformed into a state-of-the-art workspace—a reflection of the dedication, hard work, and unshakable belief of the ThoughtSol family.

The new office, spanning an impressive 9,000 square feet, has been thoughtfully designed to inspire creativity and collaboration for over 150 team members. Open floor plans foster teamwork, while private cabins provide a quiet space for focused work. There are four beautifully designed meeting rooms, including a high-tech conference room, alongside huddle spaces and breakout zones to keep ideas flowing. But it’s not all about work. The well-stocked pantry and inviting client lounge make sure employees and visitors feel at home. And with cutting-edge video conferencing tools and digital whiteboards, connecting with global clients has never been easier.

Employee safety has always been at the heart of ThoughtSol’s operations, and this office is no different. Key features include round-the-clock surveillance with advanced CCTV systems, biometric facial recognition for secure access, on-site security personnel for added peace of mind and top-notch fire safety measures, including smoke detectors and evacuation plans.

The launch event was a deeply emotional moment for the leadership and team, filled with pride and gratitude. Commenting on the same belief, the Founders stated:

Mr. Ratan Dargan, Co-Founder & CTO, shared, “This office stands as proof of our shared passion and resilience. From starting in a study room to building this incredible workspace, our journey has always been about collective strength. This is just the beginning.”

The new office is committed to the future. Designed to adapt to modern work trends, it features hot desks and remote conferencing pods, creating a flexible environment for hybrid teams.

Lastly, Mr. Vinet Kuumar, Founder & CEO, concluded, “Looking back on our journey from just four individuals to a family of 400 fills me with pride. Watching our freshers grow into confident professionals has been rewarding. To our customers and partners—thank you for trusting us and being a part of our story. When I see this office, I see our dreams brought to life. Every member of the ThoughtSol family has contributed to this milestone, and this new space is dedicated to them. Together, we’ll achieve even more.”

Looking ahead, ThoughtSol dreams even bigger: a unified 40,000-square-foot tower where the entire team can come together under one roof, ready to innovate, collaborate, and grow. This milestone isn’t just about a new address. It’s a celebration of the journey, the people, and the incredible future that lies ahead.

Asort Drives Co-Commerce Growth with Regional Focus in India’s Heartland

New Delhi, December 10th, 2024: Asort, India’s pioneering co-commerce platform, is revolutionizing how businesses, communities, and creators connect to build a sustainable and inclusive digital economy. Rooted in its mission to empower aspiring entrepreneurs—particularly the youth—Asort has transformed the commercial landscape of India’s heartland, making significant inroads into Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities.

 At its core, Asort is more than just an e-commerce platform. It is a thriving ecosystem that prioritizes collaboration, inclusivity, and community building. By bridging the gap between businesses offering high-quality products and services and the communities that resonate with them, Asort ensures unmatched reach and engagement. Through its unique co-commerce model, the platform brings together sellers, creators, and consumers into a unified ecosystem that fosters mutual growth and empowerment.

 Roshan Singh Bisht, Co-Founder & CEO of Asort.com, articulated the platform’s vision, stating, “At Asort, we believe that the true power of commerce lies in collaboration. Our regional focus enables us to tap into the immense potential of India’s diverse communities, fostering a spirit of inclusivity and empowerment. Co-commerce is not just a business model—it’s a movement towards creating a self-reliant, prosperous India.”

 Asort’s regional focus has been instrumental in its success, ensuring that the untapped entrepreneurial potential of India’s smaller cities and towns finds a supportive platform. By equipping the youth with tools, training, and a nurturing network, Asort enables them to achieve their entrepreneurial aspirations while gaining financial independence. This approach aligns seamlessly with the government’s vision of an ‘Atma-Nirbhar Bharat’ (self-reliant India), promoting self-sustained growth and resilience.

 The co-commerce model championed by Asort has become a beacon for economic transformation, emphasizing localized needs and fostering innovation at the grassroots level. With technology as its backbone and community collaboration as its cornerstone, Asort’s model is setting new benchmarks for commerce in India, creating opportunities for inclusive growth while nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit of the country’s youth.