Marriott International, the largest hospitality chain in the world, and Hotelier India, India’s leading hospitality magazine, came together to create the biggest event in hospitality-design in India.
The two-day event saw the presence of renowned industry professionals from hospitality and design in a record number, and there was much bonhomie and excitement in the air as everyone mingled and looked forward to the events of the day…
The Global Design & Development Confluence 2024 brought to you by Marriott International and powered by Hotelier India, started off on a high note with Bibhor Srivastava, Managing Director, Events, ITP Media (India) Private Limited, welcoming the audience with a warm and dynamic opening address.
Ashwin Thomas, Senior Director of Hotel Development, South Asia; Mandar Zaware, Vice President, Design & Project Management, Global Design Asia Pacific Excluding China; and Ranju Alex, Area Vice President, South Asia, all from Marriott International, delivered powerful speeches, setting the tone for the day’s event.
Karen Kim, Vice President of Global Design Asia Pacific Excluding China, Marriott International, too, gave an insightful presentation on ‘Brand Building: Journey through Marriott’s Classic & Distinctive Brand Portfolio’, while Rajeev Menon, President, Asia Pacific Excluding China, Marriott International, delivered an impactful presentation revolving around ‘The Silver Lining: 25 Years of Marriott in India and Its Growth from 1 to 150’.
Post the Marriott leaders’ insightful addresses, the audience was treated to industry addresses by two hospitality stalwarts.
Syed Ishtiyaq, Group Chief Executive Officer and General Manager, Howell India, introduced Howell Protection Systems India Pvt Ltd, a leading name in providing cutting-edge technological solutions for the hospitality industry, and showcased the innovative offerings the brand has in store for enhancing guest experiences and operational efficiency.
This was followed by an industry address by Rajesh Mehra, Director and Promoter of Jaquar & Company Private Limited. Mehra emphasised Jaquar’s dedication to redefining bathroom and lighting solutions through cutting-edge technology and design.
Then started the knowledgeable panel discussions. The first one on ‘Profit By Design’ highlighted how strategic design can drive financial success. Discussions covered the integration of design thinking, real-world case studies, and methods for measuring design impact on profitability. Insights into future design trends also showcased how innovation can enhance business outcomes.
This discussion was moderated by Jaideep Dang, Managing Director, Hotels & Hospitality Group, India, JLL; and the eminent speakers on the panel were: Chris Singer RIBA, Managing Director of SCSY Studio; Karen Wang, Founder of Karen Wang Interior Consultant (KWIC); Ranju Alex, Area Vice President, South Asia, Marriott International; Sonica Malhotra, Joint Managing Director of MBD Group; and Suresh Singaravelu, CEO and Executive Director, Hospitality and Business Expansion, Prestige Group
Day 1 closed with the ‘Power Panel: Future of Hospitality’ steered by Bibhor Srivastava, Managing Director, Events, ITP Media (India) Private Limited, and comprising of speakers: Atul Chordia, Chairman of Panchshil Realty; Karen Kim, Vice President, Global Design Asia Pacific Excluding China, Marriott International; Zaid Sadiq, Executive Director of Prestige Group; Rahul Pandit, President and ED, Hospitality, Valor Estate (formerly DB Realty); Rajeev Menon, President-Asia Pacific Excluding China, Marriott International; Rohit Ravi, Managing Director, Appaswamy Real Estates Limited; Vachirapong DANNY Arthayukti, Senior Partner and Design Director, PIA Interior Co Ltd.
