‘If given the ‘Industry status’ it will help give the hospitality sector the boost to thrive in the long run’
We are hopeful that with the 2021 budget the government will extend its support towards our industry and will try to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 from it. The hospitality industry is one of the hardest-hit industries and business loss due to COVID -19 is unabsorbed. Today, Tourism and Hospitality as an industry accounts for 12.6 per cent direct and indirect jobs in the country. If given the ‘Industry status’ it will help give the hospitality sector the boost to thrive in the long run. Moreover, we are also anticipating that the government reworks on the GST rates for hotel room tariffs of `7500 and above 18 per cent and they review the Kamath Committee Recommendations which are very stringent and unfavorable for our industry.
Guests today are taking charge of their safety, health and wellness; hotels are responding with stringent SOP protocols with technological advancement to minimise human contact. Wellness is also taking on primary importance as guests want to know that it is safe to return to large group settings. Reduced density, increased sanitation stations and prepackaged meals could be the norm going forward.
We anticipate that the government in its upcoming Union budget enables the industry by bringing about some incentives that can boost revenue. We are expecting lowered GST rates on hotel room tariffs, better infrastructure and connectivity to destinations. ‘New age’ travellers will expect simpler, outdoor experiences with their near and dear ones. There will be an expectation for more private, roomy spaces and personal control over health and hygiene. Two encouraging trends you have noticed in the hotel industry are:
“Smart” Rooms are a priority. Along with the insistence for safety, hygiene and cleanliness being the first ask for every traveller, with the world getting digital and with ‘Work from Home’ being the new normal. All basic hotel conveniences in a room are becoming gradually becoming digital. Guests want concierge services, check-in/out, room services made easy with a push of a button (or tap of a finger) allowing for minimum contact catalyst.
Sustainable hospitality is the way-forward. Eco-friendly practices,
Secondly, the general opinion suggests that the domestic market is picking up faster than the international market as the local travellers are looking for a safe weekend getaway. Seeing the upcoming trend the Pride Group has already launched several Drivecations and Staycations packages. We have also designed a holiday package - ‘Pride Escape’, for families and kids who are longing for a fun yet safe vacation.
Due to the current scenario of social distancing and for the safety of our staff and guests, we needed new solutions to meet the requirements and yet stay competitive. At Pride Hotels we have rolled out enhanced technological measures like contactless check-in and check-out facility through apps to avoid unnecessary contact; contactless billing facility, and mobile-friendly dining menu. To provide our guests with an enhanced safe and hygienic environment we have deployed technology at every aspect of our services.
We have launched a few initiatives to keep our operation engaged and relevant like Co-Working & Corporate Spaces desks, the alternate office space for working professionals. ‘India Dekho with Pride’ campaign to boost domestic travel, tourism and hospitality industry which has been overall deeply impacted by COVID-19. Wedding at Pride initiative facilitates financial assistance to make sure that our guests’ dream wedding comes alive within the specified budget. We are also offering staycation facilities with financial assistance.