2 weeks Ago By DC Correspondent
Marriott International has recently transitioned six properties owned by SAMHI Hotels Ltd from franchise to managed operations. This strategic transitionstrengthens Marriott’s managed portfolio across India’s prominent cities. The conversion aims to deepen Marriott's partnership with SAMHI Hotels Ltd and promises to enhance visibility, revenue potential, and guest satisfaction in key cities.
Leading the sales and marketing efforts for this transition are Tarun Dutta and Shefali Sinha, the Cluster Directors of Sales and Marketing at Marriott International, who play pivotal roles in integrating these properties into Marriott's extensive global sales and distribution networks. Together, they oversee a portfolio of 17 Marriott-SAMHI hotels across ninecities and five brands,both business and leisure destinations, a significant undertaking that includes ensuring a smooth integration for the newly managed properties. In an exclusive interview with Deccan Chronicle, they shared strategic insights grounded in their deep market expertise and discussed their efforts to elevate each property’s presence within the competitive hospitality landscape.
As part of the managed portfolio, the six properties — Fairfield by Marriott Mahindra World City, Four Points by Sheraton Chennai OMR, Four Points by Sheraton Jaipur, Four Points by Sheraton Pune, Fairfield by Marriott Hyderabad, and Fairfield by Marriott Ahmedabad - gain access to Marriott’s extensive distribution channels. This includes visibility on Marriott’s global platforms, amplified by access to over 210 million Marriott Bonvoy members, creating valuable exposure to diverse and loyal clientele. According to the duo, whose expertise spans both hospitality and technology, the key to maximizing the value of each property lies in an adaptable revenue strategy.
By utilizing digital marketing, CRM systems, and data analytics, they are focused on optimizing sales efficiency and staying attuned to shifting market demands. “Our approach centers on data-driven insights while leveraging brand loyalty. By prioritizing high-impact, high-ROI projects, we are poised to enhance revenue and strengthen the competitive positioning across these markets,” Tarun explains.
His background in both fields allows him to seamlessly blend technology with hospitality, transforming these properties into high-performing assets. Shefali Sinha, who has previously spearheaded experiential offerings at IHCL, along with Tarun believes that modern travelers seek more than just a stay; they look forward to enhanced guest experiences. “Hospitality today is about creating memorable stays that are in line with travelers’ interests.
” Shefali shares. With a keen eye on consumer behavior trends, the duo incorporates insights from social listening and competitor benchmarking to shape initiatives that resonate with today’s discerning traveler. They emphasize on the significance of enhancing guest engagement, a priority across these newly managed hotels.
Focusing on key business and leisure destinations, these comfortable and value-driven accommodation options are all set to strike a perfect balance between work and relaxation As the sales & marketing masters continue to shape the transition, their leadership highlights the dual focus on strategic innovation and long-term brand impact. From Tarun’s goal-setting strategies, inspired by his passion for sports, to Shefali’s creativity fueled by her love of culinary arts and herevolved world outlook, both bring unique perspectives to the portfolio's objectives in India. In line with Marriott’s global standards, the six properties offer a unified yet distinctly local experience, balancing comfort with style.
This transition underscores Marriott’s commitment to delivering memorable stays, with access to the vast benefits of the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program..
