Indian Hotels Organization (IHCL), the largest hospitality organization in India, has announced its partnership with the Claridges Hotels to expand its boutique hotel brand that blends heritage and elegance. The vision is to grow the brand to over 20 properties by 2030. It aims to redefine elegant hospitality and establish new standards for carefully chosen luxury experiences. This strategic endeavor marks a pivotal moment in India’s premium hospitality sector and displays IHCL’s commitment to innovation, legacy, and world-class service.
Under this partnership, IHCL will lead the management and operations of all hotels under the Claridges Collection, while Claridges will also continue to curate the food and beverage offerings. The Claridges Collection, designed to meet the taste of international tourists looking for immersive experiences that reflect both genuine heritage and customized luxury, is a careful fusion of elegance, cultural relevance, and historical charm. Established in 1955, this iconic luxury hotel run under the leadership of Suresh Nanda blends modern sophistication and old-world charm.
The partnership will introduce select food and beverage brands in the new properties of Claridges Collection, from the all-day dining at Pickwick, authentic Chinese – Cantonese at Jade, and Punjabi flavors at Dhaba, to Thai-inspired dishes at Erawaan and Mediterranean classics at Sevilla.
While speaking to the media, Puneet Chhatwal, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, IHCL, said, “With India’s growing economic prominence, the income pyramid is witnessing a structural shift and the demand for luxury products and services is at an all -time high, led by significant expansion of households in the high-net worth bracket. This presents a market opportunity to extend hospitality offerings in the luxury segment as consumers are seeking differentiated experiences.”
Under the new partnership, IHCL’s Claridges Collection will launch some iconic properties, adding to the world-class hospitality.
Heritage Properties Under Claridges Collection
The Claridges Collection will include the following esteemed properties, along with others:
- The Claridges, New Delhi – An enduring landmark of distinguished elegance, renowned for its timeless charm and impeccable service.
- Connemara, Chennai – It is a historic property where you can see South India’s rich cultural legacy. This place will soon integrat into the Claridges portfolio.
- Blue Diamond, Pune – Undergoing a comprehensive renovation, Blue Diamond will reopen as part of the Collection. It will further strengthen the brand’s presence in key gateway cities.
Along with these, there will be more luxury boutique properties reflecting the brand’s commitment that combines legacy and contemporary hospitality.
Adding to his thoughts over the partnership, Puneet said, “Claridges Collection resonates with those well-versed in the nuances of global luxury. It will also seek evolved and bespoke experiences. Positioned at the heart of key gateway cities across the world, these hotels serve as the epicenter of cultural and social prominence. It also offers a refined sanctuary for discerning travelers. The Claridges Collection portfolio will commence with The Claridges, New Delhi. It will also include the historic Connemera, Chennai and, post a comprehensive renovation, Blue Diamond, Pune.”
Focusing on Ambition and Strong Vision
This new partnership is built on the strength of the Claridges brand, which has been going strong for over six decades. The strong vision of Mr Suresh Nanda, owner of The Claridges Group, is defined by his unwavering commitment to uncompromising quality. It also refined design sensibilities, and an enduring focus on exceptional guest service.
As per exclusive statement about the landmark partnership, Mr Suresh Nanda said, “We are thrilled to announce this strategic partnership between IHCL and the iconic Claridges brand, marking a significant milestone in expanding Claridges’ legacy of luxury and excellence across India. This collaboration unites IHCL’s renowned expertise as a global leader in world-class hospitality with Claridges’ rich heritage and award-winning culinary offerings, ensuring guests enjoy an unparalleled experience. We are confident that this alliance will redefine industry benchmarks, showcasing the best of both partners.”
A Strategic Partnership Rooted in Legacy
This new strategic partnership has already become a focus point in Suresh Nanda News coverage. Industry observers believe it to be a forward-looking strategy that will help IHCL expand its footprint in the luxury segment in India. It will also improve the global hospitality landscape. The agreement extends the long-standing relationship between The Claridges Group and IHCL, which has been established over decades. It also represents a unique collaborative model in the hospitality sector.
Beyond strategy and expansion, the partnership also reflects continuity of legacy. The Claridges Hotels has long been guided by a strong family-driven philosophy of hospitality. That tradition continues with the active involvement of Suresh Nanda Son in shaping the group’s evolving vision. His engagement signals a seamless transition between generations. It also ensures that the brand’s heritage, values, and commitment to excellence remain intact while embracing future growth opportunities.
About the Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL)
Incorporated in 1903 by the visionary founder of the Tata Group, Jamsetji Tata, IHCL has evolved into India’s largest hospitality organization. It has a huge portfolio that encompasses luxury palaces, boutique getaways, urban stays, and modern lifestyle hotels. Taj, SeleQtions, Vivanta, Gateway, Tree of Life, and Ginger are just a few of its many brands. All these brands serve distinct hospitality markets by fusing warm Indian hospitality with top-notch service.
Today, IHCL operates a portfolio of 617 hotels, with 256 in the pipeline. All these spans across 4 continents, 14 countries, over 250 locations globally.
