IHCL's MD & CEO Puneet Chhatwal Unveils Ambitious Expansion: 45 New Properties Set to Open by FY26

In a strategic move to bolster its presence in the hospitality sector, Indian Hotels Company Ltd. (IHCL), the hospitality arm of the Tata Group, announced plans to open 45 new hotels by the financial year 2025-26. Currently managing a portfolio of approximately 280 hotels, IHCL aims to achieve this significant expansion under the leadership of Puneet Chhatwal, the Managing Director and CEO.

Chhatwal expressed confidence in the feasibility of surpassing the ambitious target, stating, “Currently, we have a total portfolio of around 280 hotels. We feel that opening more than 45 hotels in the next two to two-and-a-half years is achievable.” He further emphasized his positive outlook on the sector's performance in the near term, expressing confidence in IHCL's success on its home turf.

IHCL's portfolio includes traditional brands such as Taj, Vivanta, and SeleQtions, alongside new-age brands like amã Stays & Trails, Ginger, and Qmin. Chhatwal outlined the company's goal to maintain a balanced ratio of 50:50 between owned and managed properties in its portfolio by FY26.

In a bid to expand its global footprint, IHCL recently inked contracts for the opening of two hotels in Bhutan. Chhatwal revealed, “85-87 per cent of our business will remain in India. We have just signed two contracts in Bhutan, and two in Dhaka. So this fiscal year, we have had almost five signings for international hotels.”

As part of its expansion announcement, IHCL inaugurated Taj Taal Kutir in Kolkata, marking the third property under the Taj brand in the city. The property, featuring 75 rooms and suites, was developed by the Ambuja Neotia Group at an estimated cost of ₹160 crore, with IHCL set to manage the operations.

The ambitious expansion plan and recent international signings signify IHCL's commitment to solidifying its position as a major player in the global hospitality industry.

HBL