India to Become Top Market for Radisson as Branded Hotel Supply Set to Boom

India's hospitality sector is poised for explosive growth, with branded hotel room supply expected to rise far beyond the current ~200,000 units in the coming years, according to Federico J González, CEO of Radisson Hotel Group and board director at Louvre Hotels Group.

González expressed strong confidence in India's long-term economic trajectory and its impact on the hospitality industry, citing high GDP growth, infrastructure improvements, and regulatory reforms as key growth catalysts.

Radisson's India Growth Vision

Radisson Hotel Group currently operates and develops nearly 220 hotels across India. However, González outlined an ambitious roadmap to expand to 500 hotels by 2030, positioning India as Radisson's largest global market.

"Everything seems to indicate that India is the right place to be," said González. "The current supply is well below what a country like India should have."

Key Highlights from Radisson's India Strategy

Economic Fundamentals Drive Hospitality Demand

González cited India's 6–7% annual GDP growth and its expected continuity as a major factor behind Radisson's bullish stance.

"If the country keeps growing at this pace and simplifies its permitting process, hotel supply will grow faster than current estimates of 7–10% annually."

India vs. Global Markets

While Radisson has seen stable performance in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, and healthy growth in countries like France, Spain, Italy, the UK, and the Nordic region, González noted that China's hospitality market has plateaued.

Strategic Model: Balance of Management & Franchising

Unlike competitors such as Marriott and Hilton, which are shifting heavily toward franchise-only models, Radisson sees value in continuing to manage hotels directly.

"We are better managers, and this gives us more space to grow," said González.

Tourism Growth: India Needs Targeted Accessibility

To boost foreign tourist arrivals, González recommended that India focus on select destinations and improve international accessibility through better infrastructure, simplified entry procedures, and destination marketing.

This strategic targeting, he suggested, can accelerate India's growth as a top global tourism and hospitality hub. The importance of destination marketing is evident in luxury properties like Raffles Udaipur's festive serenity approach and Raffles Jaipur's arts partnerships.

Summary: Radisson's Strategic Bet on India

Radisson's strong push in India reflects the country's enormous untapped potential in the branded hospitality sector. With a clear goal of becoming the largest market in Radisson's global portfolio by 2030, India is not just a growth geography—but a strategic core for the company's long-term global ambitions.

The hospitality sector's transformation is further supported by initiatives like Accor Live Limitless' fresh brand campaigns in India, highlighting the industry's collective confidence in the Indian market's potential.