Marriott International Closes A Steller Year In South Asia With Over 100 Deals Signed, Driving 143% Increase Over The Previous Year

* 2025 marked a milestone year for Marriott International in the region as the company’s strengthened development pipeline underscores sustained market confidence in South Asia.

Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR, “Marriott”) today announced a stellar year in South Asia for 2025, signing a record of 102 deals, representing over 12,000 rooms, with India leading the growth momentum, accounting for 99 of total deals signed. Deals signed rose 143% year over year, and rooms signed increased 76%, marking the company’s strongest development year in the region.

The company delivered double-digit RevPAR growth in the region alongside its highest-ever annual deal signings in South Asia, reinforcing the region’s importance within Marriott’s global growth strategy, with India at the region’s core. RevPAR for the South Asia comparable portfolio increased 10% year-over-year, driven by ADR growth, reflecting sustained pricing power, premium demand trends, and strengthening brand preference across segments.

Marriott International’s President for Asia Pacific excluding China, Rajeev Menon believes India is poised to become the company’s third-largest market globally within the next three to five years, driven by the country’s strong and sustained growth in travel and hospitality demand. He stated, “India and South Asia are entering a structurally different phase of growth. What we are witnessing is not cyclical uplift; it is long-term demand transformation. Rising domestic consumption, rapid infrastructure build-out and increasing owner confidence are reshaping the hospitality landscape. The South Asia region’s record signings in 2025 signal deep conviction in Marriott’s brands, our Marriott Bonvoy platform, and our ability to scale with purpose across every segment of the market.”

Gateway Cities, Leisure Destinations and Emerging Hubs Drive Momentum

At the close of 2025, Marriott has 219 open properties across South Asia with over 36,000 rooms, of which 204 properties are in India, underscoring the country’s central role in the region’s expansion strategy.

Growth across the South Asia region reflects both scale and diversification. Major metros such as Mumbai, Delhi NCR, Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Pune continued to anchor base performance. At the same time, expansion momentum accelerated across secondary business hubs including Ahmedabad, Chennai, Kolkata, Coimbatore, Kochi/Trivandrum, Indore, Dehradun, and Surat. Leisure and mixed-demand destinations such as Goa, Jaipur, Udaipur, Rishikesh and Shimla recorded faster lifts, underscoring evolving travel patterns. The result is a more resilient and diversified growth profile: metros underpin earnings stability, while secondary and leisure markets expand footprint and unlock incremental upside.

Marriott’s development activity in South Asia remains strong, with a pipeline of 157 properties and more than 27,000 rooms across the region.

Disciplined Development and Balanced Portfolio Expansion

Conversions and portfolio agreements played a pivotal role in driving scale in the region, complemented by new-build developments that strengthened Marriott’s presence across established and emerging markets in South Asia. In 2025, 38% of rooms signed in the region were in Tier I gateway cities, reinforcing strength in core urban markets. The signings reflected a well-balanced brand mix, with 13% of rooms in the luxury portfolio, 31% in the premium segment, and the remaining 55% across select-service and midscale brands, underscoring broad-based demand across customer segments.

Marriott’s record development year in South Asia was further propelled by a significant demand in large, multi-property portfolio deals, which made up 25% of rooms signed, while conversion deals accounted for nearly 50% hotels signed in the region, reflecting strong momentum in brand conversions.

Portfolio deals signed across 2025, are set to introduce projects across seven brands, including the planned debut of The Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Sri Lanka, alongside The Ritz-Carlton, JW Marriott, Marriott Hotels & Resorts, Moxy Hotels, Courtyard by Marriott, and Fairfield by Marriott reflecting the depth and flexibility of Marriott’s brand architecture to meet different demand profiles. Together, these signings represent 2,488 rooms across key markets including Chennai, Thiruvananthapuram, Bengaluru, Varanasi, Pune, Gujarat and Navi Mumbai.

These portfolio deals reflect growing owner preferences to collaborate with a single hospitality platform and deep confidence in the company’s long-term ability to deliver value through scale, brand strength and meaningful expansion across South Asia.

Milestone Portfolio Expansion and Brand Debuts

The opening of The Westin Jaipur Kant Kalwar Resort & Spa signified Marriott’s 200th property in India, underscoring the company’s scale advantage in one of its most dynamic global markets. In Nepal, The Soaltee Kathmandu joined The Autograph Collection, marking a significant premium brand debut in South Asia. Meanwhile, Moxy Kathmandu opened in December 2025, introducing the lifestyle brand to Nepal, tapping into a growing demographic of younger, experience-driven travellers.

Marriott also introduced Series by Marriott™ through a founding multi-unit deal in India. The agreement resulted in the conversion of 26 hotels to the brand in a single day, adding approximately 1,900 rooms to Marriott’s portfolio overnight.

As of year-end 2025, Series by Marriott comprises 37 open properties (approximately 2,500 rooms) across 23 cities in India, operating as Fern Hotels & Resorts, Series by Marriott. The portfolio represents the brand’s inaugural global debut and showcases a collection of eco-sensitive hotels rooted in sustainability and regional charm, underscoring Marriott’s ability to scale locally resonant brands at speed while expanding access to the Marriott Bonvoy platform.

Looking Ahead: 2026 Luxury and Lifestyle Momentum

Marriott’s growth momentum across South Asia is set to be further strengthened in 2026 with plans to open over 50 hotels within the year including:

JW Marriott Ranthambore Resort & Spa – Expanding Marriott’s experiential wildlife and luxury resort portfolio.

Le Méridien Dehradun Resort & Spa – Deepening premium presence in an emerging Himalayan gateway.

New Delhi Marriott Marquis Aerocity – Introducing Marriott Marquis to the capital, enhancing large-format meetings and convention capabilities.

The St. Regis New Delhi Aerocity – Elevating ultra-luxury positioning in one of India’s most strategic urban markets.

Noor Mahal, Autograph Collection - A brand debut in India bringing Autograph Collection’s distinctive independent spirit to the country’s evolving travel landscape.

Together, these developments reinforce Marriott’s commitment to delivering distinctive luxury and premium experiences, while meeting the evolving expectations of travellers across South Asia.

Deepening loyalty and creating value maximiser for Marriott Bonvoy members

Marriott continues to deepen the value proposition of Marriott Bonvoy, its award-winning travel platform, across South Asia by extending loyalty beyond stays and embedding the brand more meaningfully into members’ everyday lives. In August 2025, Marriott became the first global hospitality company in India to collaborate with Flipkart, one of the country’s largest e-commerce and retail platforms. The collaboration marked a significant first-mover advantage in the market, enabling millions of consumers to engage with Marriott Bonvoy in new ways, seamlessly integrating travel rewards into everyday shopping behavior.

Building on this ecosystem, Marriott has forged a four-year strategic partnership with the International Cricket Council (ICC) from 2026 to 2029 as its official accommodation partner, positioning Marriott Bonvoy at the center of one of the region’s most powerful cultural and sporting platforms. The collaboration unlocks exclusive access, curated experiences and once-in-a-lifetime Marriott Bonvoy Moments for cricket fans and members, reinforcing emotional engagement while driving brand affinity at scale. Together, these strategic partnerships underscore Marriott’s strategy of building a loyalty ecosystem that combines global travel with culturally resonant, high-frequency engagement creating differentiated value for members while strengthening long-term brand connection across India and South Asia.

Looking ahead to 2026 and beyond, the company remains focused on purposeful expansion, deepening brand density across high-growth markets, and accelerating access to its Marriott Bonvoy ecosystem. Reinforcing its leadership in South Asia, Marriott offers a diverse portfolio of 219 open properties across 19 brands in five countries, catering to distinct traveler segments.

Tired Of Guessing What To Learn? Here Are 5 Skills Stacks You Need To Stand Out In Your Career: LinkedIn

* AI & Automation, Data & Analytics, IT & Cybersecurity, Business & Growth, and People & Leadership skills will help you stay competitive, according to LinkedIn Skills on the Rise 2026

For many young professionals, the hardest part of job hunting is knowing what to learn next. According to new LinkedIn data, 38% of Indian job seekers say they feel unprepared for how rapidly technology is changing the skills required for today’s roles. To help job seekers focus on what will actually improve their employability, LinkedIn’s Skills on the Rise 2026 spotlights five fast-growing skill stacks across organisations and industries – AI & automation, data & analytics, IT & cybersecurity, business & growth, and people & leadership.

LinkedIn data shows that 46% of recruiters across the globe now rely on skills data to fill roles. Yet, 74% of recruiters in India say finding qualified talent is harder than ever. Professionals who can work with AI tools, interpret and apply data, understand digital systems and drive operational efficiency are seeing stronger demand across industries. But technical capability alone is not the differentiator. As teams become more cross-functional and AI-enabled, collaboration, stakeholder management and project leadership are emerging as the people skills that turn technical knowledge into measurable impact.

Nirajita Banerjee, LinkedIn Career Expert and India Senior Managing Editor, said: “For years, young professionals were told to specialise. In 2026, that rule is changing. The candidates getting noticed today aren’t just specialists, they’re skill stackers. They know how to work with AI, make sense of data, improve how work gets done, and most importantly, collaborate across teams. That combination signals adaptability. And in a job market that is changing this quickly, adaptability is what gets you hired and promoted. If you want to improve your odds in this market, stop chasing isolated skills and build your unique skills stack and make it your competitive edge.”

AI & Automation: productivity is the new baseline

Professionals who can integrate AI into everyday workflows are better positioned to deliver measurable speed and scale. While skills such as workflow automation, LLMOps, AutoML and API integration are popular in engineering and IT roles, Prompt engineering now appears prominently across HR, marketing, sales and consulting, signalling that AI fluency is moving into core business functions.

Data & Analytics: insight must translate into action

Employers are prioritising professionals who can move beyond analysis to application by extracting insight, communicating it clearly and using it to guide real decisions. Data capability is showing up most visibly in the engineering function, where querying is rising as a core skill. In IT, data storytelling is seeing greater demand. Data-driven decision-making is also becoming a core skill across non-core-tech functions such as business development, sales, consulting, HR, education and marketing.

IT & Cybersecurity: scale requires resilience

As digital operations expand, professionals who can secure, monitor and strengthen technology environments are becoming central to sustainable growth. Cybersecurity is critical to engineering and information technology functions, while cloud infrastructure is gaining traction in consulting roles that support enterprise digital transformation. Alongside these, skills such as IT automation, incident management, real-time monitoring and threat detection reflect the growing emphasis on system stability as organisations scale AI and cloud platforms.

Business & Growth: efficiency drives competitive advantage

Employers are rewarding professionals who can drive growth while improving how work gets done. Relationship management is seeing growing demand in business development and sales, while negotiation remains a core capability in revenue-facing roles. Process optimisation is emerging across business development, sales, engineering, information technology, consulting and finance functions, signalling a wider shift toward operational efficiency. Visual storytelling is also gaining traction in marketing, arts and design, education and business development.

People & Leadership: collaboration multiples business impact

Collaboration is appearing consistently across business development, sales, engineering, education, arts and design, information technology, consulting, HR, finance and marketing. That breadth of job functions reflects a broader shift in how teams operate. As work becomes more AI-enabled and cross-functional, the ability to align people, manage complexity and deliver outcomes collectively is becoming a defining employability advantage.

To support professionals in building these in-demand skills, LinkedIn has made select LinkedIn Learning courses available for free, until March 31, 2026, which include AI agents for everyday professionals, learning data analytics, stakeholder management for leaders and managers, and more.

Here are this year’s Skills on the Rise in India:

AI & Automation

Prompt Engineering

Workflow Automation

Large Language Model Operations (LLMOps)

Automated Machine Learning (AutoML)

Application Programming Interface (API)

Data & Analytics

Querying

Database Optimisation

Data Analysis

Data Storytelling

Data Ethics

IT & Cybersecurity

Cloud Infrastructure

IT Automation

Incident Management

Real-Time Monitoring

Threat Detection

Business & Growth

Relationship Management

GTM & Growth Strategy

Operational Efficiency (or Process Optimisation)

Negotiation

Visual Storytelling & Communication

People & Leadership

Collaboration

Team Management

Stakeholder Management

Budget Management

Project Management

LinkedIn's career expert Nirajita Banerjee shares tips to help professionals unlock new opportunities:

Zoom out for a big-picture view of your skills: Take stock of all the skills you’ve built. Consider everything – from work to volunteering. You likely have more in-demand skills than you think, especially as human skills grow in value. If you find you’re lacking in skills that are in-demand or growing in a role/field you want to move into, make a plan to learn those skills.

Follow skills, not titles: Applying to roles where your skills align with the hiring manager's needs improves your chances. Use LinkedIn’s AI-powered job search to describe what you’re looking for in plain language, and check the job match feature on every posting to quickly see where you’re a high-quality fit.

Show, don't tell: Go beyond listing skills. To help hirers understand the skills and experience you have, be sure to explain how you used them, the impact you created, and the results you achieved on your LinkedIn profile and resume.

Get discovered with a complete Profile: Keep your profile updated with at least five relevant skills to increase visibility with recruiters. Tap into LinkedIn’s AI-powered writing suggestions to help craft engaging Headline, About and Experience sections. Adding a photo and verifying your info helps build trust early on and makes it easier to be found by hirers.

Methodology:
Skills on the Rise identifies the fastest-growing skills by analysing year-over-year growth patterns across two pillars – skill acquisition and hiring success – providing a comprehensive view of skill demand in the job market. Growth rates for all metrics are measured by comparing LinkedIn data from December 1, 2024 to November 30, 2025 to the same period in the previous year (December 1, 2023 to November 30, 2024).

Skill acquisition measures the growth of a given skill being added to member profiles.

Hiring success measures the growth of a given skill possessed by members who have been hired in the past year.

About LinkedIn:
LinkedIn connects the world’s professionals to make them more productive and successful and transforms the way companies hire, learn, market, and sell. Our vision is to create economic opportunity for every member of the global workforce through the ongoing development of the world’s first Economic Graph. LinkedIn has more than one billion members and has offices around the globe. www.linkedin.com / mobile.linkedin.com.

Le Méridien Dehradun Resort & Spa Debuts In The Foothills Of The Himalayas

Inviting Guests to Slow Down and Savour the Good Life

Contemporary design, captivating spaces and chic, signature programming await at this charming new destination in the Doon Valley

Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio of over 30 extraordinary hotel brands, today announced the opening of Le Méridien Dehradun Resort & Spa. Set along the tranquil Nun River, framed by the foothills of the Himalayas, the resort marks the brand’s arrival in Dehradun, an emerging leisure hub and key gateway to some of North India’s most sought-after hill destinations, including Mussoorie, Rishikesh, and Haridwar.

“Le Méridien continues to see strong affinity from both owners and guests, driven by its distinctive positioning and growing appeal among experience-led travellers. The brand’s steady expansion reflects that confidence”, said Kiran Andicot, Senior Vice President – South Asia, Marriott International. “With the opening of Le Méridien Dehradun Resort & Spa, we continue to make our mark in high-potential leisure and gateway destinations that are becoming increasingly important in India’s evolving travel landscape. We see tremendous opportunity ahead as we thoughtfully grow the brand across the country.”

Nestled within the serene Doon Valley, Le Méridien Dehradun Resort & Spa invites guests to embrace a slower rhythm. Designed for creative-minded travellers who value style, culture, and ease, the resort offers an unhurried setting to settle in and savour the moment. Dehradun is a sought-after leisure destination, with scenic landscapes, pleasant climate, and relaxed pace. The city is a gateway to Mussoorie, Rishikesh, and Haridwar, and also offers access to cultural landmarks, nature trails, and riverfront experiences. The resort is 45 minutes from Jolly Grant Airport and 15 minutes from Dehradun Railway Station, well positioned for both extended stays and onward journeys into North India’s most celebrated hill and spiritual destinations.

Rooted in mid-century modern design, the resort features a calm, purposeful aesthetic with natural tones, layered textures, and curated art inspired by Uttarakhand’s landscape and culture. Architectural elements reinterpret the iconic arches of the Forest Research Institute (FRI) in Dehradun through a contemporary lens, creating spaces that feel both distinctive and welcoming. The resort features 103 guest rooms and suites overlooking the river or surrounding hills, each designed with nature-inspired palette and modern amenities.

Culinary experiences at Le Méridien Dehradun Resort & Spa celebrate flavour and the pleasure of gathering. Riviera Café, the all-day dining restaurant, presents global favourites alongside regional specialties inspired by the tastes of Uttarakhand. A modern, vibrant coffee bar and gourmet bakery by day, Longitude transforms into a lively bar by night. At Aqua Current, the poolside bar, petit plates and refreshing beverages complement the natural surroundings. For a playful touch, Le Scoop by Le Méridien, the brand’s signature gelato programme, turns a simple treat into a daily ritual worth savouring.

The Explore Spa by Le Méridien draws on Himalayan botanicals and elemental traditions, with signature treatments such as the Chakra Art Massage and Himalayan Hot Salt Poultice designed to restore and rebalance. Guests can also recharge at the fully equipped fitness centre or unwind by the pool. Additionally, the Le Méridien Family Club, offers hands-on activities including pottery, pinecone painting, board games, and croquet, alongside shared family experiences, like the curated riverside picnics, inviting moments of simple pleasure and reconnection.

Le Méridien’s Unlock Art™ programme connects guests with local culture and creative communities. At Le Méridien Dehradun Resort & Spa, the programme includes a partnership with the Forest Research Institute (FRI), offering access to its museums, botanical collections, and historic forestry exhibits.

The resort also caters to events and gatherings, with over 24,000 square feet of flexible indoor and outdoor venues, including riverside lawns. These spaces are designed for destination weddings, social events, and corporate meetings, supported by intuitive service and thoughtful planning.

“Dehradun has long been celebrated for its natural beauty, cultural depth, and unhurried pace of life,” said Saurabh Khanna, General Manager, Le Méridien Dehradun Resort & Spa. “With Le Méridien Dehradun Resort & Spa, we envisioned a destination that reflects the character of the city while offering guests a refined, contemporary retreat. From locally inspired experiences and thoughtful design elements to curated moments that foster connection, every aspect of the resort has been crafted to honor Dehradun’s spirit, elevate the guest journey, and deliver the distinctive sophistication synonymous with the brand.”

For more information, visit: https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/dedmd-le-meridien-dehradun-resort-and-spa/

HELL ENERGY DRINK Returns As Official Sponsor Of Zee Cine Awards 2026; Powers ‘Viewers’ Choice Song Of The Year

HELL ENERGY DRINK, one of the world’s fastest-growing energy drink brands, proudly announced its return as an official sponsor of Zee Cine Awards 2026, marking it as the 2nd consecutive year of its association with one of India’s most celebrated platforms at the intersection of entertainment, youth culture, and high-energy experiences.

Strengthening its presence at awards, HELL ENERGY DRINK will also be owning the coveted ‘Viewers’ Choice Song of the Year’ category this year, celebrating the music that captured the nation’s imagination and furthering its engagement with audiences. By lending its name to this fan favourite award, the brand reinforces its commitment to moments that reflect popular sentiments and resonate directly with fans.

Zee Cine Awards has long been synonymous with cinematic excellence, unforgettable performances, and the glamour that defines the Hindi film industry. Through this association, HELL ENERGY DRINK continues to strengthen its engagement with entertainment platforms that resonate with young audiences, further positioning itself as a brand that fuels passion, performance, and cultural impact, and aligning seamlessly with the brand’s bold and dynamic global identity.

Commenting on the association, Unnikannan Gangadharan, Director, HELL-ENERGY PRIVATE LIMITED, said, “We are delighted to return as an official sponsor of Zee Cine Awards 2026 for the second consecutive year. Our sponsorship of the ‘Viewer’s Choice Song of the Year’ category makes this association even more special, as it celebrates the power of the audience and the music that unites them. At HELL ENERGY DRINK, we stand for passion towards music and iconic moments, and Zee Cine Awards brings all of that together in a truly powerful and entertaining way.”

Returning to the celebrated stage, HELL ENERGY DRINK reaffirms its commitment to creating high-impact brand experiences and engaging meaningfully with India’s vibrant entertainment ecosystem. As the brand continues to expand its footprint in India, this second year of collaboration further highlights HELL ENERGY DRINK’s long-term commitment to the market, leveraging marquee cultural platforms to strengthen consumer connect and build deeper brand affinity among young, aspirational audiences.

Voltas Introduces AI Enabled Split Air Conditioners That Bring Smarter And Personalized Cooling Comfort To Every Indian Home

Voltas, India’s No. 1 AC brand from the House of Tata, introduces its Summer 2026 portfolio led by the AI enabled Vertis Split AC series marking a decisive step forward in intelligent cooling designed specifically for Indian conditions.

AI Powered Cooling Designed for Indian Realities

At the core of the Summer 2026 range is the Voltas AI powered Inverter Split AC portfolio, engineered to move beyond manual temperature control to systems that continuously learn and optimise. The new Vertis AI series adapts to India diverse and intense climate conditions by intelligently sensing temperature, humidity and usage patterns.

AI Adaptive Cooling automatically adjusts cooling intensity to prevent over cooling while ensuring personalised comfort for every family member.

AI Energy Manager, integrated with the Voltas Intelligence app, allows users to set a monthly electricity consumption target. The AC then optimises its performance in real time to balance comfort with energy savings, directly addressing a key concern for Indian households.

AI Geofencing prepares the room as the user approaches home, ensuring instant comfort on arrival while avoiding unnecessary energy consumption when the space is unoccupied.

Ranbir and Neetu Kapoor share cool vibes with Voltas Intelligence

AI Adaptive cooling- https://youtu.be/__yG-MaIygY

Energy Manager- https://youtu.be/c50AGXao76c

Geofencing- https://youtu.be/BTut8uIYKuc

The Summer 2026 campaign brings this technological leap into a setting every Indian family recognises. Voltas reinforces multi-generational trust built through the real-life warmth shared between a mother and son. Featuring superstars Ranbir Kapoor and Neetu Kapoor, the film captures a light-hearted yet deeply familiar moment at home. Neetu fondly recalls how young Ranbir would always complain of feeling cold under the AC, leading to the classic back and forth of adjusting temperatures that plays out in households across the country. That everyday exchange becomes a powerful metaphor for how cooling has evolved.

With the Vertis AI series, the AC no longer depends on constant remote adjustments. It understands. It senses room conditions, learns user preferences and automatically balances comfort across generations, without compromise.

Behind this relatable story lies a deeper technological foundation. Every moment in the film is powered by AI engineered specifically for Indian climates, usage patterns and energy sensitivities. The intelligence showcased on screen is not conceptual but built into the very design of the Voltas portfolio — ushering in a new era of AI powered cooling designed for Indian realities.

Har Ghar Voltas: Summer 2026 Portfolio of Split ACs, Refrigerators and Washing Machines

· AI-enabled Vertis ACs with Adaptive Cooling, Energy Manager, Geofencing, voice control, and app-based insights

· Refreshed Voltas Beko appliances with premium frost-free refrigerators and advanced fully automatic washing machines

· Expanded Air Cooler lineup engineered for India’s hotter summers

New range of Split Air Conditioners

Intelligent Cooling: Vertis AI Series

Next‑gen intelligence with AI Adaptive Cooling, geo‑fencing, energy insights, and upgraded app features that automatically adjust comfort based on user location, usage patterns, and ambient conditions.

Stylish Cooling: Vertis Leatherette AI Series

Crafted to elevate contemporary living spaces, the Vertis Leatherette AI range features a premium leather‑finish design that brings a refined, luxurious aesthetics to the modern home and transforming the AC from a functional appliance into a sophisticated décor element. Beyond its striking looks, it delivers a powerful performance, enhanced efficiency and India‑mapped optimization for reliable cooling across diverse climates. It is a perfect union of style, strength and smart engineering, designed to complement the way India aspires to live today.

Extreme Cooling: Venus Luxe Series

Engineered for India’s extreme climatic conditions, full cooling capacity cooling in peak Indian summers even when the temperatures rise upto 55 degrees Celsius. The range also features long air throw for wider room coverage, larger indoor unit sizes for enhanced air flow and long piping flexibility. Together, these features create a compelling proposition of truly ‘Superior Cooling’, even in the most demanding conditions.

This new product range brings together engineering excellence and unmatched energy performance, further strengthening Voltas’ position as a leader in sustainable cooling and reinforcing its commitment to solutions that are both high‑performing and environmentally responsible.

Strengthened Air Cooler Portfolio 2026

Voltas introduces a more powerful, durable air cooler range designed for residential and commercial spaces; it includes:

· Residential Coolers:

Vajra 165L, upgraded Virat 80L & 100L, and compact Junior DX 15L & 25L — featuring Turbo Air Throw, Honeycomb Pads, and Motor Thermal Protection.

· Commercial Coolers:

Expanded LEO 25L & 45L models with industrial wheels and high-capacity spot cooling.

Voltas Beko unveils smarter, sustainable and user-friendly appliances

Ø Frost Free Refrigerators: Smart Cooling with Long‑Lasting Durability

· Expanded premium lineup featuring 10 new capacities including 2 new side by side models and 2 new multidoor models, designed for modern Indian kitchens with enhanced aesthetics and performance.

· VDE-Germany certified compressors offering an industry leading 25-year life, combined with a segment first AI powered smart algorithm that optimizes cooling efficiency and energy savings.

Ø Fully Automatic Washing Machines: Advanced, Hygienic & Energy‑Smart Laundry Solutions

· 7 new models powered by global laundry technologies, delivering superior wash quality, fabric care, and intuitive functionality.

· Innovative Hygiene+ wash system, intelligent programs, and energy‑ and water‑optimized performance, making them ideal for eco‑conscious families.

‘Har Ghar Voltas’ Mega Consumer Offers: Bigger Savings, Easier Access and Smarter Homes

In a continued effort to make premium cooling and home appliance solutions more accessible to consumers, this summer, Voltas has announced a series of attractive financing schemes across its flagship 5-Star Inverter Split ACs as well as Fully Automatic Washing Machines and Frost-Free Refrigerators.

Exciting New Finance Offers to Enhance Customer Convenience includes:

Fixed EMI Options Across Leading Financiers - Customers can now enjoy affordable and predictable monthly payments through Fixed EMI schemes starting at Rs. 2,888 applicable on the premium 5-Star Inverter AC range

Long-Tenure Schemes - For enhanced affordability, consumers can opt for extended 18-month EMI plans with major finance partners

Zero Down Payment Schemes - To ease upfront financial burden, customers can bring home their favourite appliances with Zero Down Payment.

Low Down Payment Schemes - For those seeking flexibility, Low Down Payment plans are available, ensuring affordability without compromising on choice.

These offerings highlight Voltas’ continued effort to understand customer needs, bringing premium technology closer to every household and making high‑performance cooling easier to own.

Leadership Commentary

Mr Mukundan Menon, Managing Director, Voltas Limited, said:

“For Indian families, all-round comfort is about managing extreme heat with confidence, keeping electricity costs predictable, preserving food reliably in demanding climates and ensuring hygienic, efficient laundry care for growing households. It is about solutions that quietly support everyday life without adding complexity.

At Voltas, we have always believed that technology must make everyday life simpler and more reassuring. As a full stack appliance company guided by our ‘Har Ghar Voltas’ vision and backed by the trust of the Tata Group, we are proud to serve Indian homes through an integrated portfolio that spans Voltas ACs and Voltas Beko Refrigerators and Washing Machines. With our AI enabled Vertis Split AC series, complemented by thoughtfully engineered Voltas Beko appliances, we are redefining intelligent, energy conscious and sustainable living for families across India.”

Mr Jayant Balan, Head RAC Business, Voltas Limited, added:

“The Summer 2026 portfolio has been thoughtfully crafted around the realities of Indian families and the intensity of our climate. Today, customers expect more than performance. They expect solutions that are intelligent, reliable and purpose built for India.

Our commitment therefore extends beyond innovation to strengthening our manufacturing capabilities and building scale with purpose. We are strengthening our domestic production capabilities, including the development of India largest air conditioning factory, as part of our continued investment in the Make in India movement. By designing and manufacturing in India, we ensure our products are closely aligned with local climate conditions, usage behaviour and energy priorities.

With AI Adaptive Cooling, AI Energy Manager and AI Geofencing, we are transitioning from conventional systems to intelligent solutions that learn, adapt and optimise in real time. The campaign brings this progress to life in a human and relatable way, while reinforcing Voltas leadership in smart, energy efficient solutions engineered and made for India.”

Distribution Reach & Market Presence

Beyond product innovation, Voltas strength lies in its deep and extensive reach across India. With over 30,000 touchpoints, 1750 service franchisees and 45 company owned service centres, the brand has built one of the most robust distribution and service networks in the country. This scale ensures that customers not only access Voltas products easily but also experience dependable after sales support wherever they live.

With strong penetration across Tier 2 and Tier 3 markets, Voltas has consistently taken advanced cooling solutions beyond metros, recognising that aspiration and need are not limited to large cities. The continued expansion of exclusive brand stores further strengthens this local connect, bringing intelligent and energy efficient cooling closer to Indian households.

Its joint venture, Voltas Beko, today stands as one of the fastest growing consumer durable brands in India, making strong inroads in the refrigerators and washing machine market. Driven by a strong portfolio of home appliances tailored to Indian usage patterns and evolving lifestyles, the brand is expanding rapidly across the organised retail landscape. With growing momentum across modern trade, general retail and e-commerce platforms, and a steadily strengthening network of retail partners, Voltas Beko has positioned itself as a formidable force in India rapidly evolving consumer durables market.

About Voltas:

Voltas Limited, founded in India in 1954 and part of the Tata Group, is a premier air conditioning and engineering solutions provider, projects specialist, and one of the leading players in the consumer durables category. Alongside its undisputed market leadership in Room Air Conditioners—with a footprint of over 30,000 touch points. Voltas has expanded into the home appliances segment through a wide range of innovative products under Voltbek Home Appliance Pvt Ltd. The Company’s portfolio also includes Commercial Refrigeration, Air Coolers, Water Heaters, Fans, Water Dispensers, Water Coolers, and Commercial Air Conditioning products, offering comprehensive cooling and comfort solutions.

Godrej’s Latest Campaign Featuring Deven Bhojani Spotlights Its ACs And Their Honest 5-Year Comprehensive Warranty

Youtube:

https://youtu.be/630IAEe_Qcw

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DU8IaIhDd6T/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

The Appliances Business of Godrej Enterprises Group reinforces brand focus on reliability and transparency with its latest digital film for its air conditioners featuring Deven Bhojani. The film highlights Godrej’s five-year comprehensive warranty on ACs and goes on to explain how it comes with no hidden costs* - no technician visit charges, no gas refill costs and no remote replacement costs.

Built on the simple insight that intelligently engineered air conditioners backed by comprehensive warranty coverage eliminates the need for unsolicited advice and hidden costs, the film unfolds in a relatable living room setting during a new AC installation. As the proud homeowner oversees the setup of his Godrej AC, an overconfident neighbour portrayed by renowned actor Deven Bhojani drops in with a stream of well-meaning but unnecessary suggestions. Bringing warmth, humour and authenticity to a situation many consumers instantly recognise, the narrative cleverly contrasts casual ‘expert’ opinions with brand’s credible engineering and warranty promise. The film ultimately reinforces how Godrej’s thoughtfully designed ACs deliver powerful, reliable cooling backed by a comprehensive 5-year warranty, offering consumers lasting assurance especially during the peak stress of Indian summers.

Speaking on this film, Swati Rathi, Head of Marketing, Appliances Business of Godrej Enterprises Group, said, “While buying ACs, consumers are looking for products that offer performance and peace of mind. The film interestingly captures a slice of everyday Indian life, where everyone has an opinion. Through the humour, we wanted to reassure consumers that with Godrej ACs, comfort doesn’t come with riders. Reinforcing Godrej’s commitment to trust, we offer not just thoughtfully designed products but also thoughtfully crafted and honest offers.”

Commenting on this, Sahil Shah, CEO - Dentsu Creative Isobar, said, "We rooted the idea in something deeply familiar, the everyday Indian neighbour. From the story to the choice of artist, every element was designed to deliver the brand’s message with relevance. When communication feels familiar, it naturally becomes more meaningful."

Links for the film:

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/14dgm73SHLE/

X:

https://x.com/GodrejAppliance/status/2024461465415999582?s=20

LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7430490742588047360

Punjab National Bank Launches “Digital Location Management Solution” (DLMS) To Strengthen Hyperlocal Digital Presence

Punjab National Bank (PNB), one of India’s leading public sector bank, has launched its Digital Location Management Solution (DLMS), a centralized hyperlocal solution designed to enhance the Bank’s digital visibility and seamlessly connect customers from online searches to physical branches, ATMs and BNAs.

Through dedicated microsites for every branch, ATM and BNA, accessible through https://locate.pnb.bank.in, DLMS ensures accurate, verified and uniform location information across various digital publishers such as Google, Google Maps, DuckDuckGo, Brave, Ecosia and Waze as well as AI-driven platforms and derivatives such as ChatGPT, Gemini and Perplexity etc. Individual branch, ATM and BNA’s microsite is integrated with the respective Google Business Profile (GBP). Each microsite serves as an authentic source for branch, ATM and BNAs details including but not limited to address, contact information, IFSC, business hours, directions and ongoing offers & schemes. To enhance accessibility and regional outreach, the microsites are available in eight languages enabling customers across India to access banking information in their preferred language.

With integrated QR-based review mechanisms and structured location data management, DLMS is set to strengthen customer engagement, improve online discoverability and reinforce PNB’s commitment to a seamless phygital banking experience..