Radisson Hotel Group Eyes 500 Hotels, 50,000 Staff in India by 2030

Radisson Hotel Group, headquartered in Belgium, has announced ambitious growth plans for India, targeting a portfolio of 500 hotels and a workforce of 50,000 by the year 2030. Elie Younes, Executive Vice President and Global Chief Development Officer, shared that the group currently has around 130 hotels open and over 70 under construction. They aim to expand to 250-260 open properties by 2026, with the total reaching 500 by 2030, comprising approximately 250-300 open hotels and about 200 under construction.

The workforce is also set to nearly triple from the current 17,000 to 50,000 by 2030. Mr. Younes emphasized that future growth will primarily come from Tier-II to Tier-IV cities and airport hotels. He also proposed measures to attract more foreign tourists, including simplifying visa regulations and enhancing airline infrastructure for better air travel. The group views the branded residences segment as a complementary, non-mainstream model for the next five years.

**Impact** This expansion signifies a major growth phase for the Indian hospitality industry, creating substantial employment opportunities and potentially driving economic development in smaller cities. It could also lead to increased competition and innovation within the sector. Rating: 7/10.

**Difficult Terms** Portfolio: A collection of assets, in this case, hotels owned or managed by the group. Tier-II to Tier-IV cities: A classification of cities in India based on population and economic activity, with Tier-I being the largest metropolitan areas, followed by Tier-II, Tier-III, and Tier-IV in descending order. Branded Residences: Residential properties, such as apartments or villas, that are developed and operated under the brand name of a hotel or hospitality company, often offering hotel-like services. Airport hotels: Accommodation facilities situated in close proximity to or within airport complexes, catering to travelers.