In this exclusive interview, Pratima Badhwar, Head of Commercial – India & South Asia at Accor, discusses the group’s dynamic expansion strategy across the Indian subcontinent. With the launch of Novotel New Delhi City Centre and Pullman Chennai Anna Salai, Accor is reinforcing its commitment to delivering high-quality hospitality experiences tailored to both business and leisure travellers. Badhwar sheds light on the brand’s ambitious plan to open 30 new properties, explore opportunities in Tier 3 cities, and elevate the premium hospitality segment—all while staying rooted in localisation, innovation, and sustainability.
With the recent launch of Novotel New Delhi City Centre which features 124 rooms and over 10,000 square feet of event space. How does this property sees Accor’s broader strategy for expansion in Delhi? and what unique offerings does it bring to both business and leisure travellers?
The opening of Novotel New Delhi City Centre is a strategic addition to Accor’s growing presence in Delhi ( NCR) region. With this addition, we currently have five successfully operating hotels across our brand portfolio.
Novotel New Delhi City Centre is thoughtfully designed to meet the needs of both business, leisure and MICE segment—offering modern event spaces for meetings and conferences, as well as comfortable, contemporary stays for those exploring the city. Its central location ensures great connectivity to commercial hubs and cultural landmarks, making it ideal for a wide range of guests. The hotel embodies Accor’s focus on delivering globally consistent standards with a touch of local flavour—from service and design to culinary experiences. It aligns with our broader vision of creating accessible, high-quality destinations that resonate with today’s discerning travellers while contributing to the dynamic hospitality landscape of New Delhi.
With Accor’s ambitious plan to open 30 more hotels in India over the next three to five years, totaling approx 5,500 keys, could you elaborate on the key factors driving this expansion and how Accor intends to differentiate itself in this competitive market of hotel chains?
India’s hospitality sector is rapidly growing and it is a key market for us. Our growth strategy is rooted in a balanced presence—expanding across diverse destinations to cater to both business and leisure travellers. With a strong and varied brand portfolio, we’re able to meet different guest expectations, offering everything from luxury to economy experiences under one global umbrella. We prioritise localisation, ensuring each property reflects the character of its surroundings while maintaining international standards. As we grow, our emphasis remains on innovation, sustainability, and developing talent, enabling us to deliver value consistently while contributing positively to the communities we serve.
You are also exploring opportunities in tier 3 cities, recognizing significant growth potential in Tier 3. What challenges and opportunities does Accor anticipate in entering these smaller cities, and how does the strategy differ from operations in major metropolitan areas?
Accor’s growth strategy covers the entire country because every city has its own unique story and resilience that we value. Whether it’s a destination known for leisure or a hub for business and meetings, we aim to offer experiences that cater to diverse traveller needs. Our approach focuses on understanding the local character and blending it with global standards.
Entering Tier 2 cities like Rajamundry, Indore, Dehradun etc. or emerging markets comes with certain challenges like infrastructure and resource availability, but we adapt by designing efficient operations and partnering closely with local stakeholders. This flexibility allows us to deliver consistent quality while respecting each location’s distinct culture. Ultimately, our goal is to provide seamless hospitality experiences across all cities—be it for work or leisure—making every property a meaningful part of the community it serves.
Can you tell more about Pullman Chennai Anna Salai, as it marks a significant addition to Accor’s portfolio in South India. How does this development of it reflects Accor’s commitment to serving to the premium travellers in the region, and what can guests expect from this property?
Pullman Chennai Anna Salai marks a significant step in Accor’s growth in South India, becoming the group’s 8th property in Chennai. This premium addition reflects Accor’s continued commitment to catering to the evolving needs of upscale travellers in the region. The hotel is strategically located on one of the key micro markets. Guests can expect well-appointed rooms, curated dining experiences, and modern amenities that align with the Pullman brand’s global standards. The launch strengthens Accor’s presence in Chennai’s dynamic hospitality landscape, offering travellers another sophisticated option while reinforcing the city’s position as a thriving destination for business and culture.
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