Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality company, has formed a strategic alliance by signing definitive agreements to acquire a controlling stake in ANK Hotels Pvt Ltd and Pride Hospitality Pvt Ltd, while also establishing a distribution agreement with Brij Hospitality Pvt Ltd. This expansion grows IHCL’s portfolio to over 550 hotels.
Puneet Chhatwal, the Managing Director & CEO of IHCL, noted: > “India’s hospitality sector has witnessed sustained demand momentum over the last three consecutive fiscal years, reflecting the country’s growing economic prominence and rising discretionary spends. The outlook for the sector remains buoyant as demand outpaces supply, especially in the underserved mid-market segment.”
He added, > “This partnership is a multi-pronged approach addressing India’s heterogeneous market landscape and aligns with IHCL’s five-year roadmap ‘Accelerate 2030’ for unlocking tourism potential.”
By further establishing its presence in the midscale market, the partnership effectively doubles IHCL’s footprint with over 240 hotels, catering to the aspirational traveler. Brij’s strong brand equity adds experiential luxury options in India’s cultural centers.
The current portfolio includes ANK Hotels Pvt Ltd and Pride Hospitality Pvt Ltd, which manage 135 midscale hotels across 110 locations currently affiliated with The Clarks Hotels & Resorts. IHCL plans to integrate these hotels into its brandscape primarily under the Ginger brand. Meanwhile, Brij Hospitality operates 19 hotels in unique leisure destinations.
Ankur Dalwani stated that IHCL would fund the investment predominantly through internal accruals, allowing for the enhancement of current assets and further growth opportunities.
Anoop Kumar expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, recalling the heritage his family has in the hospitality sector since 1947, while Aryavir Kumar shared the vision of combining their rich hospitality legacy with IHCL, a member of the iconic Tata Group.
The joint aspirations aim to redefine India’s tourism industry through shared values, deep-rooted traditions, and exemplary experiences.
