Suba Hotels expands footprint with seven new openings across India

April 7, 2026

Suba Hotels announced the launch of seven new properties across India on the occasion of its Founder’s Day on April 7, marking a significant milestone in its expansion strategy within the hospitality sector.

The newly opened hotels, introduced under multiple brands, include Comfort Inn Metropolis in Mumbai (34 rooms), Clarion Inn Greywall in Amritsar (48 rooms), Comfort Inn Kishore in Azamgarh (34 rooms), Click Collection Aster in Jaipur (42 rooms), Click Hotel in Hyderabad (48 rooms), Click Hotel in Chakan (32 rooms), and Quality Inn in Gurgaon (58 rooms).

Commenting on the development, Managing Director Mansur Mehta said, “The simultaneous launch reflects the organization’s continued expansion and commitment to strengthening its presence in the hospitality sector. This moment is not only a celebration of expansion but also a tribute to the vision, perseverance, and values of our founder that have shaped the organization over the years.”

Reflecting on the company’s journey, Mansur Mehta added, “My father started with a ten-room guest house in Mumbai, and today we have over 100 properties across more than 70 destinations.” This progression highlights the brand’s steady growth and deep-rooted legacy since its inception in 1994.

Meanwhile, CEO Mubeen Mehta emphasized the significance of the milestone, stating, “This is the first time in the history of the hospitality industry that a company has opened seven hotels in a single day across seven different cities. This reflects the company’s vision for growth, which has been made possible due to the foresight of our founder.”

In addition, the company continues to adopt a diversified operational strategy through five models—owned, leased, revenue sharing, managed, and franchise. The newly launched properties align with this approach, with Gurgaon, Mumbai, and Jaipur operating on management and revenue-sharing models, Hyderabad under a pure management contract, Amritsar and Azamgarh under franchise agreements, and Chakan positioned as an owned asset.

Furthermore, Mubeen Mehta noted that these openings reinforce the company’s ongoing commitment to expansion. He reiterated that Suba Hotels aims to build on its founder’s legacy while pursuing new growth milestones in the coming years.

Suba Hotels Limited has established itself as one of India’s fastest-growing domestic hotel chains in the mid-market segment. By offering a diverse portfolio spanning upscale to economy brands, the company continues to strengthen its presence, particularly across Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. Its strategic focus on asset-light growth models, combined with an emphasis on delivering quality guest experiences at accessible price points, has positioned the brand competitively in the evolving hospitality landscape.

Suba Hotels’ simultaneous launch of seven properties underscores its aggressive expansion strategy and operational agility. With a strong legacy, diversified business models, and a clear focus on scalable growth, the company looks forward to further consolidate its footprint in India’s rapidly growing hospitality sector.

TreeHouse Hotels & Resorts launches 60+ key property in Moradabad

BRL Editor

April 7, 2026

TreeHouse Hotels & Resorts launches 60+ key property in Moradabad — Jayant Singh, Managing Partner, TreeHouse Hotels & Resorts.

TreeHouse Hotels & Resorts has announced the launch of its latest brownfield hospitality project in Moradabad, widely known as the Brass City of India. Notably, the upcoming hotel, featuring over 60 keys, marks a strategic expansion as the brand strengthens its presence across emerging business and leisure destinations in India.

Furthermore, the company is developing the new TreeHouse Hotel as a contemporary, full-service property tailored to modern travellers. It aims to cater to business travellers, weddings, meetings, and leisure stays, while focusing on functional design, regional relevance, and essential amenities. As a result, the hotel will offer rooms and services designed to meet diverse and evolving travel needs.

In addition, the property will feature 60 rooms and suites, along with an all-day dining restaurant, banquet facilities, a rooftop casual bar, and dedicated event and meeting spaces. It will also include wellness offerings, thereby positioning itself to host corporate stays, weddings, and social gatherings with a strong emphasis on operational efficiency and functional hospitality.

“We are delighted to announce our brown field project in Moradabad, a city that holds immense cultural and commercial importance. As travel patterns evolve, we see strong opportunities in emerging cities where quality hospitality supply is limited yet demand continues to grow. This project reinforces our vision of expanding TreeHouse Hotels & Resorts into high-growth markets while delivering dependable and Dil-Se experiences,” said Jayant Singh.

Meanwhile, the owner of the property also expressed confidence in the brand partnership. “This is my first hotel, and I was quite impressed with the TreeHouse Brand, its commitment, sincerity, and its brand values, which truly resonate with me,” said Khan, Managing Director and Owner of the hotel.

TreeHouse Hotels & Resorts continues to capitalize on the growing demand for quality hospitality in emerging cities. By expanding into Moradabad, the brand is strategically positioning itself to tap into underserved markets while delivering consistent and experience-driven hospitality offerings.

Australian AI firm Firmus secures $505M, targets massive AI factory expansion

BRL Editor

April 7, 2026

Firmus, an Australian artificial intelligence company, announced on Tuesday that it has secured $505 million in a funding round led by Coatue Management. With this fresh capital, the company plans to aggressively scale its AI infrastructure platform across the Asia-Pacific region.

Notably, the equity round has valued Firmus at $5.5 billion post-money. In addition, leading AI chipmaker Nvidia also participated in the investment, further strengthening the company’s strategic positioning in the AI ecosystem.

Furthermore, Firmus stated that it will deploy the funds to accelerate its ambitious Project Southgate initiative. This project focuses on building a large-scale network of AI factories across Australia. Developed in collaboration with Nvidia and CDC Data Centres, the initiative is expected to reach a capacity of up to 1.6 gigawatts over the next three years.

Meanwhile, this latest equity funding follows a significant $10 billion debt package that the company finalized in February. The debt round was led by Coatue and global investment giant Blackstone, highlighting strong institutional confidence in Firmus’ long-term growth strategy.

Overall, Firmus is rapidly positioning itself as a key player in the global AI infrastructure space. As demand for scalable AI computing continues to surge, the company is well placed to capitalize on emerging opportunities across the Asia-Pacific market while strengthening Australia’s role in next-generation AI development.

Firmus’ latest funding round marks a significant milestone in its expansion journey. By combining strong investor backing, strategic partnerships, and large-scale infrastructure initiatives, the company is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of AI infrastructure in the Asia-Pacific region.

India’s REIT market gains momentum, emerges as strong investment avenue

BRL Editor

April 6, 2026

India’s Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) market is witnessing strong growth and is rapidly emerging as a competitive investment avenue both domestically and across Asia. According to a recent report by ANAROCK, released at EXCELERATE 2026 by NAREDCO Maharashtra NextGen, the sector is evolving into a mature asset class, driven by strong fundamentals, regulatory support, and rising investor confidence.

Moreover, the introduction of Small and Medium REITs (SM REITs) in 2025 has significantly expanded market access through fractional ownership. As a result, the segment has unlocked a potential monetisation opportunity of ₹670–710 billion. At the same time, Indian REITs have delivered nearly 9% five-year price returns, outperforming several Asian peers while maintaining stable distribution yields of 5–6%.

In addition, operational performance remains robust, with portfolio occupancy levels consistently exceeding 90%. Global tenants across sectors such as technology, BFSI, and consulting drive this strong demand. Furthermore, REITs accounted for over 20% of office leasing in Q2 FY26, supported by healthy re-leasing spreads and steady rental growth.

Since listing, REITs have delivered returns ranging from 12% to over 60%, alongside consistent income distributions. Consequently, tax efficiency continues to enhance their appeal among investors. Regulations mandate the distribution of at least 90% of net cash flows, while more than 65% of these distributions remain tax-exempt, thereby improving post-tax returns.

Looking ahead, the sector holds significant growth potential, with only 32% of REIT-worthy assets currently listed. Additionally, expansion into emerging segments such as logistics, data centres, healthcare, and residential real estate expects to further strengthen the investment landscape.

Notably, the Securities and Exchange Board of India introduced REITs in 2014 to formalise real estate investments by improving liquidity and enabling portfolio diversification. Currently, India has five listed REITs managing over 176 million sq. ft. of space, reflecting steady expansion supported by institutional capital and policy reforms.

Meanwhile, EXCELERATE 2026 brought together global and domestic stakeholders to discuss investment strategies, emerging asset classes, and the future of real estate financing in India. As a result, the event reinforced the sector’s growing role as a global investment destination.

India’s REIT market is entering a high-growth phase, with regulatory clarity, strong asset performance, and increasing investor participation driving this momentum. As new segments open up and accessibility improves, REITs will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of real estate investment in India.

Hyatt signs deals with Brigade Group for two new hotels in India

BRL Editor

April 6, 2026

Hyatt Hotels Corporation has announced the signing of management agreements with Brigade Hotel Ventures Limited and BCV Developers Private Limited, both part of Brigade Group, to develop two new properties in India—Grand Hyatt Chennai ECR and Hyatt House Bengaluru Devanahalli.

Firstly, Brigade Hotel Ventures Limited has partnered with Hyatt to develop Grand Hyatt Chennai ECR, a premium beachfront property along the scenic southeastern coastline in Chennai. Scheduled to open in 2029, the hotel will feature approximately 200 guest rooms and offer an immersive luxury experience. In addition, the property will include five dining venues—comprising a signature restaurant, specialty outlets, a pool bar, and a lobby lounge—along with wellness facilities and multiple sophisticated event spaces. Consequently, the hotel aims to cater to both leisure and business travellers while positioning itself as a preferred destination for weddings, staycations, and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions).

Meanwhile, BCV Developers Private Limited has signed a separate agreement with Hyatt to launch Hyatt House Bengaluru Devanahalli, a greenfield development in Bengaluru. Expected to open in 2027, the project will feature 135 serviced apartments tailored for extended stays and short-term visits. Moreover, the property is strategically located just 20 minutes from Kempegowda International Airport and will serve the rapidly growing Devanahalli tech corridor, which includes upcoming IT parks, the Aerospace Science Park, and the planned Financial City. Amenities will include an all-day dining restaurant, a bar, meeting spaces, a swimming pool, and a fitness centre.

“We are happy to announce our plans for Grand Hyatt Chennai ECR, a world-class hotel that will redefine the hospitality landscape in Chennai,” said Nirupa Shankar. “This will be our first hotel with Hyatt, and we are confident in Hyatt’s global expertise in managing large-format MICE hotels. Strategically located on East Coast Road, the property is poised to become a premier destination, appealing to business travellers, wedding guests, and leisure seekers alike. Brigade is committed to building landmark hospitality assets, and Grand Hyatt Chennai ECR is a significant step in that journey.”

“We are thrilled to be collaborating with Hyatt on this new project,” said Amar Mysore. “The Hyatt House brand is a perfect fit for the Devanahalli locality, offering a blend of comfort and convenience that meets the needs of today’s business and leisure travelers. Its proximity to the airport and upcoming tech parks makes it a prime location, and we are confident this hotel will set a new standard for extended-stay hospitality in the region.”

“We are excited to work with Brigade Group through the signings of Grand Hyatt Chennai ECR and Hyatt House Bengaluru Devanahalli,” said Dhruva Rathore. “Chennai and Bengaluru are dynamic markets with strong demand for hospitality, and these landmark developments align with Hyatt’s strategic vision of expanding our brand presence in key leisure and business destinations across India.” He added, “We are confident our guests will savor memorable moments whether they are traveling for business, with family, or gathering with colleagues to enrich connections.”

Furthermore, Hyatt continues to strengthen its footprint in India, aligning with its broader global expansion strategy. Headquartered in Chicago, the company operates over 1,500 hotels and all-inclusive properties across 83 countries as of December 31, 2025. Its diverse portfolio spans luxury, lifestyle, inclusive, and essentials segments, reinforcing its leadership in the global hospitality industry.

At the same time, Brigade Group, established in 1986, has built a strong presence across residential, office, retail, and hospitality segments in cities such as Hyderabad, Mysuru, Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, and GIFT City.

The dual signing marks a significant milestone in Hyatt’s India growth strategy while reinforcing Brigade Group’s ambition to develop landmark hospitality assets. As demand for premium leisure and extended-stay accommodations continues to rise, these projects can effectively capitalise on evolving travel and business trends across key Indian metros.

Wellness startup Aarus enters India with functional wellness products

BRL Editor

April 6, 2026

Wellness startup Aarus enters India with functional wellness products — Yagyesh Kanoria, Founder of Aarus

Direct-to-consumer wellness startup Aarus has officially launched in India, positioning its offerings around functional ingredients delivered through everyday formats such as cocoa drinks, sweeteners, and chewing gum. Notably, the company aims to provide an alternative to conventional pill-based supplements while improving long-term consumer adoption.

Moreover, incubated by the Kanoria Foundation, Aarus is targeting what it describes as the “adherence gap” in preventive healthcare. While many consumers purchase supplements, they often fail to maintain consistent usage. Therefore, Aarus embeds clinically formulated compounds into familiar daily formats, eliminating the need for users to build entirely new habits.

In line with this strategy, the company has introduced its first product, Drift, a nighttime cocoa blend designed to support sleep. The formulation combines botanical extracts, amino acids, and essential minerals, thereby aligning with existing post-dinner routines. As a result, Drift reframes supplementation as a habit-linked ritual rather than a clinical intervention. Additionally, the company revealed that early closed-cohort testing demonstrated improvements in sleep onset and overall sleep quality, with some users even replacing late-night snacking with the drink.

Initially, Drift will launch through a waitlist model before expanding into broader online distribution channels. This phased rollout allows the company to refine its product based on real user feedback.

“We are building products that people can adopt effortlessly by embedding them into their existing routines, rather than asking them to create new ones,” said Yagyesh Kanoria, Founder of Aarus.

“At a broader level, the challenge in preventive healthcare is not just access but consistency—people start with intent but often don’t sustain usage. Our focus is on improving adherence by designing formats that fit naturally into daily life. This approach aligns with a broader global shift, where markets such as the US and Europe are moving away from traditional pill-based supplementation toward products embedded within everyday consumption. We combine scientific rigour with familiar formats, while continuously learning from user behaviour to refine both formulation and delivery.”

Looking ahead, Aarus is building a diversified product pipeline. It includes a focus-enhancing low-calorie sweetener, a mineral-rich salt alternative aimed at reducing sodium intake, and a collagen-support chewing gum. Furthermore, Kanoria, who brings expertise in biochemistry and pharmaceuticals, emphasised that launch timelines will depend on ongoing consumer feedback. Over time, the company plans to expand across multiple wellness categories while strengthening its product-market fit.

Aarus is aligning itself with a growing global shift toward functional, habit-integrated wellness solutions. By combining scientific formulation with everyday consumption formats, the startup is well-positioned to address the critical challenge of consistency in preventive healthcare while tapping into the rapidly evolving D2C wellness market.

Spacetech startup SatLeo Labs raises $2.2M to scale thermal satellite intelligence platform

BRL Editor

April 6, 2026

Spacetech startup SatLeo Labs has raised $2.2 million in a seed funding round led by Unicorn India Ventures, thereby taking its total funding to $5.5 million to date. Notably, the round also witnessed participation from Merak Ventures, Java Capital, IIMA-CIIE, and investor Manish Gandhi.

Furthermore, the company plans to utilise the fresh capital to accelerate its thermal satellite mission while simultaneously scaling its AI-powered platform for thermal intelligence applications.

Founded by Shravan Bhati, SatLeo Labs develops satellite-based systems capable of capturing both thermal and visible data from low Earth orbit. Consequently, its platform enables a wide range of applications, including defence, agriculture, urban planning, and climate monitoring.

In addition, the startup has already developed its first thermal payload, TAPAS-1, and is currently preparing it for satellite integration. At the same time, it has initiated pilot deployments, including urban heat and air pollution monitoring projects in cities such as Ahmedabad and Tumakuru.

Meanwhile, SatLeo Labs has expanded its team to nearly 30 members and continues to strengthen its commercial pipeline. Importantly, the company has secured letters of intent exceeding $42 million, reflecting strong market interest in its offerings.

Looking ahead, the firm will focus on achieving satellite launch readiness, expanding its commercial footprint, and scaling its thermal data capabilities over the coming year.

SatLeo Labs’ latest funding round underscores growing investor confidence in India’s spacetech ecosystem. As demand for satellite-driven intelligence rises across sectors, the startup appears well-positioned to capitalise on emerging opportunities while advancing its technological roadmap.

Nykaa in talks to acquire majority stake in Deepika Padukone’s 82°E

BRL Editor

April 6, 2026

Beauty and fashion retailer Nykaa, operated by FSN E-Commerce Ventures and led by Falguni Nayar, is reportedly in talks with Deepika Padukone’s premium skincare brand 82°E to acquire a majority stake. This move comes as Nykaa continues to strengthen its House of Nykaa portfolio amid intensifying competition in the beauty and personal care market.

“The potential deal hinges on Nykaa’s market leadership position, cumulative beauty customer base of 42 million, and ability to build on repeat orders and scale, to help turn around the flagging 82°E,” one of the executives said.

Notably, Nykaa and Padukone already share a strategic relationship. The platform appointed the actress as its global brand ambassador in September last year, where she led marquee campaigns such as Pink Friday Sale and Nykaaland. However, both Nykaa and 82°E did not respond to queries regarding the ongoing discussions.

Meanwhile, 82°E is expected to retain a minority stake if the deal materializes. However, the brand has struggled to meet growth expectations. Its premium pricing strategy, with products averaging ₹2,500 for 50-ml jars, coupled with unclear positioning and rising competition from digital-first skincare brands, has weighed on performance. Consequently, the direct-to-consumer venture, launched in late 2022, reported a 30% decline in revenue to ₹14.7 crore in FY25, while losses stood at ₹12.26 crore, according to regulatory filings.

On the other hand, Nykaa continues to aggressively expand its footprint and portfolio. The company competes with players such as Reliance Retail’s Tira, Sephora, and Shoppers’ Stop Beauty. In line with its House of Nykaa strategy, the retailer has strengthened its offerings through acquisitions of brands like Nudge Wellness, Dot & Key, and Earth Rhythm.

Furthermore, the company has delivered strong financial performance. It reported a 156% year-on-year jump in net profit to ₹68 crore for the quarter ended December 31, 2025. At the same time, consolidated revenue rose 27% to ₹2,873 crore, driven by robust demand and improved margins. Additionally, Nykaa expanded its offline presence by adding 11 new stores and entering four new cities during the quarter, taking its total store count to 276.

At an industry level, a joint report by Nykaa and Redseer highlighted that India is the world’s fastest-growing beauty and personal care market. The report projected the sector to reach $34 billion by 2028, up from $20 billion last year. Moreover, e-commerce continues to lead growth within the segment, supported by increased access to global premium brands, rising discretionary spending, and strong demand from tier 2 and tier 3 cities, alongside a younger consumer base.

Nykaa’s potential investment in 82°E signals a strategic push to consolidate its leadership in India’s rapidly expanding beauty market. While the deal could provide 82°E with the scale and distribution it needs to revive growth, it also reinforces Nykaa’s long-term vision of building a diversified and competitive in-house brand ecosystem.

Himachal Pradesh to get Rs 180-Cr Five-Star Hotel in Kangra under ADB project

BRL Editor

April 4, 2026

Himachal Pradesh to get Rs 180-Cr Five-Star Hotel in Kangra under ADB project — R S Bali, Chairman of the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation

The Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation has announced plans to develop a major hotel project worth Rs 180 crore in the Kangra district under an Asian Development Bank-backed initiative, signalling a strong push to boost tourism infrastructure in the region.

Sharing details at a press conference, R S Bali confirmed that the board of directors approved the decision during a recent meeting.

He said, “This hotel will feature the state’s first musical fountain and will be constructed as a five-star property at the foothills of the scenic Dhauladhar range. The tender for this project, which is the largest in the state, will be finalised on April 6.”

Moreover, the corporation is also investing significantly in upgrading existing hospitality assets. In Shimla, it will spend Rs 45 crore on renovating the Hotel Holiday Home, for which it has already received approval from the central government.

In addition, renovation work is currently underway for three hotels in Manali. Furthermore, the corporation has allocated around Rs 20 crore for Hotel Hamir and Rs 35 crore for Jwalaji in Jwalamukhi, thereby strengthening its overall hospitality portfolio across key tourist destinations.

Alongside infrastructure upgrades, the corporation has also approved the establishment of a 24×7 call centre to enhance customer service and improve tourist engagement.

These developments reflect a comprehensive strategy by the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation to modernise infrastructure, elevate visitor experiences, and position the state as a premier tourism destination in India.

Planet Hotels & Resorts expands India footprint with strategic growth pipeline

BRL Editor

April 4, 2026

Planet Hotels & Resorts expands India footprint with strategic growth pipeline — Anand Chatterjee, Executive Director, Planet Hotels and Resorts

Planet Hotels & Resorts continues to strengthen its footprint across India by advancing a robust and strategically curated development pipeline. Under the leadership of Anand Chatterjee, who has led the company’s hospitality vertical for over a decade, the brand is steadily redefining premium lifestyle hospitality across key markets.

Since its early ventures in 2013, marked by the launch of the Planet Hollywood Beach Resort, the group has evolved into a dynamic hospitality player. Over the years, it has expanded its presence across high-growth destinations such as Thane, Powai, and Manali, thereby building a diversified portfolio across leisure and urban markets.

Moreover, flagship properties, including Planet Hollywood Thane City and The Beatle Hotel, anchor the brand’s urban portfolio and reflect its focus on design-led and experience-driven hospitality. In addition, the company strengthened its boutique segment in 2025 with the successful debut of its Manali property under The Beatle brand, catering to travellers seeking elevated mountain experiences.

Further advancing its premium positioning, the group announced the launch of Kings Mansion in early 2026. Located in North Goa, this exclusive property is designed as a refined retreat for ultra-premium travellers, combining privacy, bespoke experiences, and distinctive design elements.

Looking ahead, Planet Hotels & Resorts has outlined an ambitious expansion roadmap. The company plans to develop new properties across key destinations such as New Delhi, Tirupati, Udaipur, and Hyderabad, while also evaluating additional high-potential markets. Consequently, these developments align with the brand’s vision to establish a strong presence across India’s leading leisure, spiritual, and urban hubs.

Commenting on the company’s growth trajectory, Anand Chatterjee said, “Our expansion strategy is deeply rooted in identifying emerging lifestyle destinations and curating experiences that resonate with the evolving expectations of today’s traveller. As we scale across diverse markets, our focus remains on delivering design-forward environments, intuitive service, and immersive stays that define modern premium hospitality. This journey is not just about growth in numbers but about creating meaningful, differentiated experiences across every touchpoint.”

Planet Hotels & Resorts continues to scale its operations through a strategic mix of flagship, boutique, and ultra-premium developments. By focusing on experiential hospitality and expanding into high-demand destinations, the company aims to capitalise on India’s growing travel and tourism sector while setting new benchmarks in premium lifestyle hospitality.

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