ITC Hotels Signs 50th Welcomhotel Property, Expands Footprint Across Key Indian Destinations

Introduction

ITC Hotels Limited (ITCHL) has reached a significant milestone with the signing of its 50th Welcomhotel property in India, reinforcing the brand’s steady expansion across business and leisure destinations. The latest additions in Shirdi and Bhubaneswar highlight the company’s continued focus on strengthening its midscale premium footprint across high-growth markets.

ITC Hotels Marks 50th Welcomhotel Signing in India

ITC Hotels Limited has announced the signing of its 50th property under the Welcomhotel brand in India, marking a key milestone in the brand’s growth journey. The expansion includes two new properties in Shirdi, Maharashtra, and Bhubaneswar, Odisha, further strengthening ITC Hotels’ presence in emerging and established travel destinations.

The Welcomhotel brand continues to position itself as a gateway to culturally rich locations, catering to both business and leisure travellers across diverse geographies.

New Agreements in Shirdi and Bhubaneswar

As part of this expansion, ITCHL has entered into definitive management agreements with Sandy Resort Private Limited. The partnership includes a 73-room Welcomhotel in Shirdi and an 84-room property in Bhubaneswar.

These signings reflect ITC Hotels’ asset-light growth strategy and its focus on partnering with regional developers to scale its portfolio efficiently.

Growing Portfolio and Pipeline Strength

With the addition of these two properties, the Welcomhotel portfolio now comprises 51 hotels with over 5,500 keys. Of these, 30 hotels are currently operational, while 21 are in various stages of development.

The brand’s pipeline underscores ITC Hotels’ continued emphasis on expanding its presence across tier II and tier III cities, tapping into rising domestic travel demand.

Recent Signings Across Strategic Locations

Over the past year, Welcomhotel has expanded across 16 destinations, including Ayodhya, Sarnath, and Vrindavan in Uttar Pradesh; Bodh Gaya in Bihar; Jaipur and Salasar in Rajasthan; Rajkot in Gujarat; Mysuru in Karnataka; Nellore in Andhra Pradesh; and Mohali in Punjab, among others.

Upcoming openings in Gangtok, Bhopal, and Gwalior are expected to further strengthen the brand’s presence in culturally and commercially significant markets.

Leadership Perspective

Anil Chadha, Managing Director, ITC Hotels Limited, described the milestone as a significant achievement for the brand. He noted that Welcomhotel has witnessed consistent growth across varied landscapes, including urban centres, leisure destinations, and pilgrimage circuits.

He added that the brand remains committed to delivering immersive guest experiences while continuing its expansion into new markets.

Partner Perspective

Sanjeev Kumar Patra, Managing Director, Sandy Resorts Private Limited, expressed confidence in the collaboration, highlighting the strategic importance of both the Shirdi and Bhubaneswar projects.

He noted that the partnership with ITC Hotels aligns with their vision to elevate hospitality offerings and reposition their properties under a trusted and established brand.

Conclusion

The 50th signing milestone reinforces ITC Hotels’ long-term growth strategy for the Welcomhotel brand. With a strong pipeline and expanding geographic footprint, the brand is well-positioned to capitalise on India’s evolving hospitality landscape, particularly in emerging destinations.