Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), the largest hospitality firm in India, has formally announced the signing of a 60-year sub-license agreement for a Ginger hotel at Manohar International Airport (MOPA) in Goa. This significant agreement was signed between GMR Goa International Airport Limited (GGIAL) and Roots Corporation Limited (RCL), a wholly owned subsidiary of IHCL.
The agreement underscores IHCL’s strategic growth plan to establish a presence in key transit hubs, aligning with the country’s expanding airport infrastructure. Managing Director & CEO of IHCL, Mr. Puneet Chhatwal, expressed the importance of this move, emphasizing its harmony with the nation’s airport development trajectory.
The forthcoming 300-key Ginger hotel, scheduled to open its doors in 2027, will mark IHCL’s third large-format hotel at an international airport, following similar establishments in Mumbai and Bengaluru. This development signifies a strategic partnership with the GMR Group, aiming to unlock synergies across IHCL’s hospitality ecosystem and GMR’s growing footprint in the airport sector.
Situated over two acres within a planned aero-city development, the hotel will feature Qmin, an all-day diner, and a well-equipped fitness center, catering to the diverse needs of both business and leisure travelers.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Puneet Chhatwal, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, IHCL said, “With the rapidly growing country’s airport infrastructure, the signing of a Ginger at the new Manohar International Airport, Goa is in line with IHCL’s growth plan of being present across key transit hubs. This will be the third large format Ginger hotel at an international airport after Mumbai and Bengaluru, catering to the growing demand that these nodal centres generate.”
He added, “This is the beginning of a strategic partnership with the GMR Group which will unlock synergies between IHCL’s hospitality eco-system of multiple hotel brands and businesses including QSR and air catering to GMR’s growing airport presence in the country.”
Speaking on this occasion Mr. Aman Kapoor CEO, Airport Land Development, GMR said, “GMR aims to develop the nation’s first Aerocity in the Western Hemisphere ‘GMR Goa Aerocity’. Signing of this strategic agreement kick starts a new chapter in urban lifestyle experience. GMR Goa Aerocity will be a one-stop solution for lifestyle entertainment, hospitality and shopping needs of the passengers from all over the world as well as the local populace of Goa. However, this is not the first Aerocity that GMR Group is developing. The success of the Delhi and Hyderabad Aerocities is a testament to the strategic brilliance and operational excellence of the Group.”
Given Goa’s status as a popular tourist destination, known for its sandy beaches, active nightlife, and World Heritage-listed architecture, the addition of this hotel is poised to enhance IHCL’s footprint in the region. Furthermore, Goa’s importance as an industrial and manufacturing hub adds another layer of significance to this strategic move.
With the inclusion of this hotel, IHCL’s portfolio in Goa will boast a total of 15 establishments, including four currently under development. This expansion solidifies IHCL’s commitment to catering to the diverse needs of travelers in this dynamic and vibrant region.
