“In an exclusive conversation with Nikhil Sharma, Market Managing Director, Eurasia at Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, insights emerge on the brand’s notable growth in India, sustainability initiatives, strategic focus on the Indian market, and ambitious plans for expansion and development in the region.”
Q- Wyndham Hotels & Resorts has been in the news recently for a remarkable growth rate in India. Also, from the perspective of the setback of the industry during the COVID period, this is also an exemplary achievement for any hospitality brand. What has been the secret?
Wyndham remains committed to its goal of expanding to 150 hotels in India and bolstering its team in the country. Additionally, the company is actively connecting with independent hotels in tier three and tier four cities, recognizing that these establishments will eventually require an international brand within three to four years. This presents an exciting opportunity for Wyndham to establish its presence in these markets.
Q- The aspects of Eco-friendliness and sustainability in the sector are the most talked about subjects in recent times in terms of market demand as well as new norms in the industry. What is your opinion about this, and how are you ensuring the same for your brand?
At Wyndham, we are committed to protecting the environment and advocating for sustainability as integral parts of our fundamental principles. Through our global sustainability initiative, Wyndham Green, we actively strive to mitigate the environmental impact of our hotels. Our five-level comprehensive certification program focuses on improving energy efficiency, reducing emissions, conserving water, and minimizing waste.
The program has received an overwhelming response, with approximately 80% of our hotels in Eurasia participating. Out of the 43 hotels currently enrolled, 30 have already attained level 1 certification or higher. These accomplishments highlight the successful implementation of various measures, including utility monitoring, promoting recycling, adopting energy-efficient lighting, and introducing programs for towel and linen reuse.
Q- How important is the Indian market for you and what would be your major branding strategies for this market?
As one of the most popular tourist destinations in Asia with one of the fastest-growing economies in the world, incredible India is an important market for Wyndham and offers immense potential. This market plays a key role in our branding strategy with 6 brands in the market including Days Inn, Ramada, Ramada Encore, Hawthorn Suites, Howard Johnson, and Wyndham, we focus on raising awareness and telling our brand story. Over the years, Wyndham has invested more resources into branding and marketing in Eurasia and today we have a dedicated team in the region.
Q- If you could share with us your views on the road ahead in terms of new projects, expansion plans, and prospects?
India holds immense potential for us, making it one of our key focus markets. With a robust portfolio of over 50 hotels, we are further strengthening our presence with a pipeline of over 30 hotels. These strategic hotel signings align perfectly with our growth strategy for India, reflecting our commitment to enabling hotel travel for all. In line with this, we aim to expand our corporate team in India, transforming it into a prominent business hub supporting the wider EMEA Division.
Looking ahead to 2024, we have ambitious goals that involve reinforcing our midscale offerings in tier 1 and 2 destinations, investing in qualified professionals, and training our existing workforce. These efforts will enable us to better support our regional hotel partners and drive overall strategic growth.
