Vikram Oberoi, CEO and managing director of the Oberoi Group, sat down with Skift to discuss the company’s future, competitive advantages, policies affecting hotels, accessibility, and what’s in store for India’s economy. He emphasized the importance of responding to guest feedback, focusing on quality over quantity, and considering employee needs as key factors in the company’s success. The Oberoi Group plans to open 50 new hotels by 2030, focusing on smaller properties in beautiful locations with a strong sense of place.
Oberoi believes that India’s hotel companies should consider raising their rates to better reflect the quality of their accommodations. He noted that while rates in India are often lower than elsewhere in the world, the country’s hotels offer world-class service and amenities. The Oberoi Group’s data reflects the growing affluence of Indian travelers, with average room rates for domestic guests often surpassing those for overseas guests. The hospitality and tourism industries in India should work collectively to promote employment opportunities, especially given the country’s young population in need of jobs to drive economic prosperity.
To keep up with the demand for hotels in India, Oberoi suggests that the state and central governments should consider granting industry and infrastructure status to the hospitality sector. This would provide businesses with cost savings through lower property taxes, better tariffs for electricity, and other benefits that could stimulate growth and increase supply. The Oberoi Group’s focus on quality and investing in employee growth sets it apart from other companies, with a commitment to providing exceptional service through personalized attention and ongoing learning and development opportunities.
As India’s middle class continues to grow, the country’s long-term economic prosperity and increased travel are likely to follow. The strengthening middle class has led to better education for children, greater spending power, and a willingness to travel and experience the world. The increasing confidence of Indians when traveling and exploring new destinations is seen as a positive sign of the country’s evolving economy and the potential for sustained growth. Overall, the Oberoi Group’s emphasis on quality, employee development, and understanding the changing landscape of India’s economy and hotel industry positions it well for success in the future.
