French hospitality chief Accor is setting formidable targets for India. Currently holding the quantity three spot by room depend, Accor goals to turn into the second-largest worldwide resort operator in India throughout the subsequent 4 years, based on Duncan O’Rourke, Middle East, Africa & Asia Pacific, CEO of Accor.

Speaking to businessline, O’Rourke stated that he sees the numerous potential within the Indian market. He added, “We’re number one in almost every market except for North America and China. We will become among the top three in India in the next four years. The opportunity in India is significant. In France, for example, we have over 1,200 Accor hotels. In India, we only have 62. This represents a massive chance for growth across all sectors, not just budget-friendly options.” The firm plans so as to add 30 inns within the subsequent three to 5 years.

Accor’s present portfolio in India boasts 62 inns, catering to a various vary of vacationers with manufacturers just like the budget-friendly ibis and the luxurious Raffles. With 30 extra inns already within the pipeline, their progress technique hinges on a two-pronged strategy. One key component is the enlargement of present profitable manufacturers like Novotel and Grand Mercure, which have established a robust repute within the Indian market. O’Rourke elaborated on this technique, stating, “We see significant potential for further growth in these established brands within India. They offer a familiar and trusted experience for travelers, and we believe there’s room for significant expansion.”

The second pillar of Accor’s progress technique focuses on introducing new way of life properties like Tribe, 25 Hours, SLS amongst others. These inns cater to a youthful technology of vacationers in search of a extra customized and experience-driven keep. “The Indian travel market is evolving, and we want to be at the forefront of that change,” commented O’Rourke. “By introducing new lifestyle brands like Tribe, we can cater to this growing segment and offer a unique and memorable experience for our guests.”

Beyond simply constructing inns, Accor plans to leverage India’s distinctive strengths to gas its progress. This consists of the nation’s wealthy cultural heritage, expert workforce, and the booming outbound journey market, with a rising variety of Indians exploring the world. “India offers a truly unique opportunity,” stated O’Rourke. “We’ll focus on building a strong market presence while capitalizing on the growing number of Indian travelers. We believe our diverse brand portfolio and commitment to exceptional service will resonate with both domestic and international travelers in India,” he added.

This technique positions Accor for a head-to-head battle with the present quantity two participant, Radisson Hotel Group, which boasts over 115 inns below the Radisson, Park Inn, and Suites by Radisson manufacturers. However, the final word prize lies in dethroning the present chief, the US-based Marriott International, with its sturdy presence of 148 inns throughout 17 manufacturers in India. Accor’s formidable enlargement plans and numerous model portfolio may propel them to the coveted quantity two spot, probably pushing previous Radisson and giving Marriott a critical run for his or her cash throughout the subsequent 4 years. In phrases of the biggest resort chain in India, that place has been captured by homegrown IHCL with over 184 operational inns in India.

The rising common room charges (ARRs) in India additional bolster Accor’s technique, he stated. While ARRs stay decrease than these in main worldwide cities like Paris or London, O’Rourke emphasised, “India offers excellent value compared to more expensive destinations. The value provided here is just as good, if not better, for travelers seeking a high-quality hotel experience,” thus explaining the bullishness of the model.