IHCL Acquires 51% Stake in Brij Hotels to Boost Boutique Leisure Segment, ETTravelWorld
Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality company, has signed definitive agreements to acquire a controlling 51 per cent stake in Brij Hospitality, the owning company of the Brij Hotels brand. The transaction will give IHCL ownership of the Brij brand and deepen its partnership with the Clarks Group, reflecting IHCL’s continued focus on building India’s boutique leisure segment.
Commenting on the acquisition, Puneet Chhatwal, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, IHCL, said, “India’s hospitality sector is witnessing sustained demand growth led by rising disposable income and discretionary spends with a growing preference for experiential leisure. We are delighted to extend our partnership with the Clarks Group by furthering the marketing and distribution alliance to a majority shareholding in Brij Hotels, one of the country’s early entrants in the boutique leisure segment.”
He added, “With this acquisition, IHCL through its diverse brandscape consolidates its position as a frontrunner in India’s leisure tourism with market leadership in key cultural, spiritual and wildlife destinations. Brij’s presence in offbeat locations offers heterogeneity to IHCL’s portfolio in places such as Jaipur, Varanasi, Ranthambore, northern hills, the north east region and Goa among others. This takes IHCL’s portfolio to 610 hotels with 253 in the pipeline, well on course to meet our guidance of 700 hotels under Accelerate 2030.”
Founded by Udit Kumar and Anant Apurv Kumar, Brij Hotels is a collection of boutique luxury hotels and resorts across India, offering distinctive and immersive stays that celebrate regional culture, architecture, and nature. Its flagship property, BrijRama Palace in Varanasi, stands as a restored heritage landmark that embodies the essence of local craftsmanship and cultural heritage.
Commenting on the partnership, the co-founders said, “We are excited to partner with IHCL to shape the future of boutique hospitality. Brij Hotels, one of India’s leading boutique hotel chains, is recognised for creating immersive, locally rooted experiences that celebrate the country’s cultural diversity. IHCL’s legacy of presenting Indian hospitality to the world aligns deeply with our purpose at Brij. Together, we will bring IHCL’s tradition of excellence with Brij’s design-led approach to craft meaningful journeys and build the first truly global Indian boutique hospitality brand.”Brij Hotels currently operates 22 properties with 11 more under development, blending heritage aesthetics with contemporary comfort and personalised service. The acquisition supports IHCL’s ambition to expand its presence in high-growth leisure destinations and build leadership in experiential and boutique travel experiences.
