Sudipta Dev – Mumbai
Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts, which operates 98 properties and more than 500 restaurants and bars globally, including two hotels in India, has a strong focus on the India outbound market. The last few years have seen a positive growth from India with increasing interest from the social and weddings market, particularly from Tier II and smaller cities. “With higher spending power, and the perceived value of an overseas trip – many Indians are choosing to travel internationally for family events,” said Greg Ward, VP sales, Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts. One of the world’s premier hotel companies, the group provides increased choice across a variety of brands including Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts, Kerry Hotels and Hotel Jen.
Another key segment is the outbound MICE market. Shangri-La properties frequented by Indian travellers include Indian Ocean hotels in Mauritius and the Maldives which are in high demand. Middle East, Thailand, Hong Kong and Singapore properties are also popular in this market. “We see Sri Lanka as an emerging destination with the opening of Shangri-La Hambantota Resort and Spa as Sri Lanka’s premium resort soon to be complemented by Shangri-La Colombo opening in 2017, ensuring we are well placed for the Indian traveller meeting their needs and exceeding expectation,” mentioned Ward.
All hotels within the group’s expanding portfolio are catering to MICE and destination weddings, including Pudong’s Shangri-La Hotel (Shanghai), Singapore’s Shangri-La Hotel, China World Hotel (Beijing), and Muscat’s Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah (Oman). “Additionally with the increased growth in visitor numbers from India to the Philippines where we have six hotels including city centre and resorts we continue to provide increased choice from India,” stated Ward.
The Hong Kong headquartered leading hotel group has representation in Mumbai, Delhi and Bengaluru. Its Regional Liaison Office – India serves as the facilitator of Shangri-La’s business interests in the sub-continent. The office is led by Vivek Braganza, director of business development – India.
Talking about India properties Ward stated, “Shangri-La New Delhi has recently undergone an extensive renovation programme across all food and beverage outlets with excellent results. Additionally, we recently opened Shangri-La Bengaluru which is already an award winning hotel.”