The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality company, has announced a landmark strategic partnership to expand its portfolio by over 150 hotels across the country.
This multi-pronged agreement includes the acquisition of controlling stakes in ANK Hotels Pvt Ltd and Pride Hospitality Pvt Ltd, as well as a distribution partnership with Brij Hospitality Pvt Ltd, significantly strengthening IHCL’s presence in the midscale and boutique leisure segments.
Expanding the IHCL Footprint
With this move, IHCL’s total portfolio now exceeds 550 hotels and 55,000 rooms, doubling its midscale presence to over 240 hotels. The newly acquired properties, currently operated under The Clarks Hotels & Resorts will be gradually integrated into IHCL’s brandscape, predominantly under the Ginger brand. These hotels span 110 locations across India and are structured under capital-light management contracts and select operating leases.
Boutique Luxury with Brij Hospitality
The partnership with Brij Hospitality adds 19 boutique hotels to IHCL’s experiential leisure offering, including restored palaces and nature retreats. Ten of these hotels are operational, with nine in development. Brij’s focus on heritage, sustainability, and community engagement aligns with IHCL’s commitment to authentic Indian hospitality.
“Our partnership with ANK, Pride, and Brij Hospitality is a multi-pronged approach addressing India’s heterogeneous market landscape,” said Puneet Chhatwal, Managing Director & CEO, IHCL. “It supports our ‘Accelerate 2030’ roadmap and unlocks India’s tourism potential.”
A Union of Legacies
The promoters of ANK, Pride, and Brij Hospitality descendants of the Clarks Hotels family will continue to oversee operations, ensuring continuity and future growth. The partnership is described as a union of legacies, combining over 200 years of hospitality heritage with IHCL’s century-old tradition of excellence.
“Together, we will blend IHCL’s legacy with our experiential approach, creating journeys that honour our shared heritage and reveal India in its most beautiful and timeless form,” said Anant Apurv Kumar and Udit Kumar, Founders of Brij Hotels.
Financial Strategy and Future Growth
IHCL will fund the investment through internal accruals, leveraging strong cash flows. The capital will be used to unlock value in existing assets and fuel future expansion. The transaction was facilitated by Horwath HTL, a global leader in hospitality consulting.
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