Author: Khwaish Hingad
-KH News desk (editorial1@imaws.org) The India Cloud Kitchen Market is witnessing an unprecedented growth trajectory, with the latest market intelligence from IMARC Group and Research and Markets projecting a valuation of US$ 2.4 Billion by 2034. This represents a robust Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 12.28% between 2026 and 2034, signaling a permanent structural shift in India’s food services landscape. Cloud kitchens—also known as ghost kitchens or dark kitchens—operate exclusively for delivery, bypassing the high overheads associated with traditional brick-and-mortar dining. This model has become the cornerstone for both homegrown startups and international franchises looking to scale rapidly across…
-KH News Desk (editorial1@imaws.org) Nana’s, the latest venture by Ramkee Narayanan, marks a bold evolution in the traditional sweets and bakery space. Built on the 44-year legacy of Hotel Anandha Bhavan, founded by his father Mr. Narayanan, Nana’s is designed as a complete one-stop food destination. The 1,500 sq ft outlet at 87, Lawrence Road brings together multiple experiences under one roof — including traditional sweet and savoury counters, a chaat section, snack displays, extensive impulse counters, and dedicated sampling stations that invite customers to explore and taste. What sets Nana’s apart is its experiential approach. Customers can witness live…
-KH News Desk (editorial1@imaws.org) Arcor Hotels has officially announced the inauguration of Arcor Hotels Mysuru, marking a key milestone in the group’s journey to deliver refined and localized hospitality experiences. The property, which held its grand opening on March 28, 2026, is designed to reflect the architectural elegance and rich cultural heritage of Karnataka’s historical heartland. Strategically located just 7 km from the iconic Mysore Palace, the hotel is positioned to capture the growing influx of high-end domestic and international tourists visiting major regional attractions, including Chamundi Hills and Brindavan Gardens. Property Highlights & Guest Offerings: Upscale Accommodation: The hotel…
-KH News Desk (editorial1@imaws.org) Trance Hotels & Resorts, a fast-growing hospitality management firm headquartered in Hyderabad, has announced the successful takeover and rebranding of two prominent properties in Pune, Maharashtra. This strategic move marks a significant expansion into the Western Indian market, integrating the new assets into the group’s boutique portfolio focused on “lifestyle-led” hospitality. The two properties, now operating under the Trance umbrella, have been rebranded to align with the group’s core philosophy of blending local culture with contemporary design and personalized service. These acquisitions are part of Trance’s broader mission to establish a robust presence in Tier-I cities…
-KH News Desk (editorial1@imaws.org) Lemon Tree Hotels Limited has announced the strategic signing of its sixth property in Jammu & Kashmir, continuing its aggressive expansion into high-potential leisure destinations. The upcoming 60-key hotel, branded as Keys Prima by Lemon Tree Hotels, Srinagar, will be managed by the group’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Carnation Hotels Private Limited. Strategically located just 2 km from Srinagar International Airport and 11 km from the Srinagar Railway Station, the property is designed to provide unparalleled connectivity for both corporate fly-in travelers and leisure groups entering the Kashmir Valley. This signing brings Lemon Tree’s regional portfolio to a…
-KH News Desk (editorial1@imaws.org) Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, the world’s largest hotel franchising company, has announced the expansion of its footprint in India’s premier leisure destination with the opening of Riverside Goa, a Trademark Collection by Wyndham. This 110-key resort marks the third Wyndham-branded property in the state and the debut of the Trademark Collection in the Goan market. Located along the scenic banks of the Arpora River, the resort is strategically positioned to offer a tranquil escape while remaining within close proximity to the vibrant nightlife and beaches of North Goa, including Baga and Anjuna. The property is designed…
-KH News Desk (editorial1@imaws.org) In a move set to drastically reduce the compliance burden on India’s massive food and beverage sector, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has announced that food business licenses and registrations will now be permanent. This transformative policy marks the end of the traditional system that required food business operators (FBOs) to renew their permits every one to five years. The decision is aimed at supporting millions of businesses—from street vendors and home-based startups to large-scale manufacturers and luxury hotels. By granting “perpetual” status to these permits, the FSSAI seeks to eliminate administrative…
-KH News desk (editorial1@Imaws.org) Third Wave Coffee, one of India’s fastest-growing specialty coffee-first QSR chains, has officially entered the historic city of Agra. The launch of its first cafe on Fatehabad Road in Tajganj marks a strategic expansion into Uttar Pradesh, bringing the brand’s national footprint to over 220 outlets. Designed as a community-led space, the new Agra cafe aims to cater to both the local resident population and the high volume of international and domestic travelers visiting the city of the Taj Mahal. The outlet features the brand’s signature “coffee-first” experience, powered by its tech-enabled app that allows for…
The Indian hospitality industry is mourning the loss of one of its most transformative leaders. Param Kannampilly, Chairman and Managing Director of Concept Hospitality Pvt. Ltd. and the visionary founder of The Fern Hotels & Resorts, passed away on March 30, 2026. He was 76. Kannampilly, widely regarded as the “architect of sustainable luxury” in India, died peacefully in Mumbai surrounded by his family. His passing marks the end of a career spanning over five decades—a tenure defined by a radical shift in how the Indian hotel sector balances profitability with environmental stewardship. The “Ecotel” Revolutionary Long before “ESG” became…
-KH News Desk (editorial1@imaws.org) In a move that reshapes the landscape of Indian viticulture, Sula Vineyards Limited, India’s largest wine producer, has signed a definitive agreement to acquire the Chandon wine estate in Nashik from Moët Hennessy India. Spanning approximately 19 acres in the heart of Maharashtra’s wine country, this strategic acquisition is set to significantly bolster Sula’s production capacity and its rapidly growing wine tourism portfolio. The Chandon facility, known for its state-of-the-art sparkling wine production and minimalist architectural design, has been a centerpiece of international investment in Nashik. By integrating this premium estate, Sula aims to create a…