– KH News Desk (cbedit@imaws.org)
LaRiSa Hotels & Resorts and AM Hotel Kollection have officially announced a strategic merger under the unified LaRiSa Hotels & Resorts brand. This consolidated entity now encompasses a dynamic portfolio of 32 hotels, resorts, and villas across India, including 26 operational properties (totaling 950 keys) and 6 more in development (adding 120 keys), and exceeding ₹100 crore in annual operating revenue.
A Fusion of Complementary Strengths
LaRiSa Hotels brings to the table its legacy of owned and managed curated experiential stays, while AM Hotel Kollection contributes deep expertise in boutique and lifestyle property operations. The merger combines their strengths into one seamless powerhouse that is poised to set new benchmarks in India’s hospitality ecosystem.
Ambitious Growth Trajectory
Leadership anticipates a 20–25% growth in the coming years by augmenting the current portfolio through new acquisitions and management contracts. The merger is a gateway into the branded and co-branded ownership landscape and aims to elevate the group as a preferred property manager and employer.
Leadership and Brand Identity
The consolidated venture is led by Priya Thakur (Owner & Director, LaRiSa Hotels) and Randhir Narayan (Founder & CEO, AM Hotel Kollection). Their shared leadership vision emphasizes blending business strategy, employee culture, and distinctive guest experiences, aiming to enrich owner value and staff opportunities.
Introducing a Mid-Market Brand
To capture the growing market for curated, affordable stays, the group unveiled a new mid-market hospitality brand, offering rooms priced at approximately INR 4,000–9,000 (USD 50–100) per night. This move aims to reach budget-conscious travelers without compromising experiential quality.
Expanding Footprint and International Vision
Already underway are six newly contracted properties (120 keys) in the pipeline. The group is also exploring international expansion, particularly in destinations with direct flight connectivity to India—reflecting its ambition to grow beyond domestic boundaries.
Strategic Implications for the Hospitality Sector
This merger signals a pivotal shift in India’s hospitality environment. By merging asset-heavy operations with management prowess, LaRiSa Hotels & Resorts is laying the groundwork for a more agile, scalable model. Both boutique charm and operational depth are now housed under one roof, offering unmatched appeal to franchise partners, property owners, and guests alike.
Quotes That Define the Vision
Priya Thakur reflected, “This merger aligns two like-minded brands passionate about redefining hospitality. Our goal is to become the most experiential hotel company—for guests, employees, and communities. Together, we envision expansion and more transformative experiences.”
Randhir Narayan added, “Merging our strengths allows us to create the perfect synergy of strategy, culture, and guest delight. Now, under LaRiSa Hotels & Resorts, we can enhance owner value, enable staff growth, and scale our portfolio.”
