Le Meridien New Delhi has evolved into a masterpiece during the last three decades. The 5-star hotel is the pinnacle of world-class design, gastronomy and fashion. To know more about the hotel, we interviewed Ms Meena Bhatia – Vice President & General Manager of Le Meridien New Delhi.
Ms Meena Bhatia is a hotelier with over four decades of luxury hot
el experience. She started with Oberoi Grand, Kolkata and thereafter moved on to spearhead the sales as Associate Director of Sales in Hyatt Regency Hotel Delhi. At present, Ms Meena Bhatia is the Vice President & General Manager at Le Meridien New Delhi. She is the head of strategic planning, brand management and business development of the hotel and has been at the heart of driving transformational change in Le Meridien New Delhi from being a pure five-star property to an iconic luxury hotel.
Extremely conscious about the brand standards, she introduces and implements brand programmes and assesses and ensures that the brand standards are adhered to. She also handles all communications with Marriott International and has been on the Brand Advisory Board of Le Meridien.
How does Le Meridien New Delhi stand out amongst the competition around?
Le Meridien New Delhi stands out through its unique blend of contemporary elegance and timeless sophistication. Our hotel is renowned for its central location, iconic design and personalised service, which create an unparalleled experience for our guests. We have cultivated a reputation for being a hub of creativity, innovation and cultural experiences, which resonates well with both business and leisure travellers. The emphasis on art, culture and a unique perspective on hospitality sets us apart from the competition.
What are the USPs that your hotel offers vis-à-vis others in the market?
Our unique selling propositions include our strategic location in the heart of the capital, providing easy access to key landmarks such as the Bharat Mandapam, Central Vista, etc. Additionally, our dedication to art and culture, reflected in our curated artistic spaces within the hotel, offers guests a distinctive cultural experience. The combination of effervescent accommodations, award-winning dining options and state-of-the-art meeting and event spaces makes us a preferred choice for discerning travellers. Our personalised service, attention to detail and commitment to guest satisfaction further distinguish us from others in the market.
Is F&B (food and beverage) a big revenue earner for the property?
Yes, food and beverage is a significant revenue contributor for the hotel. Our diverse range of dining options, from fine dining to casual eateries, caters to a wide variety of palates. We pride ourselves on offering innovative and high-quality culinary experiences that draw not only our in-house guests but also local patrons. Our restaurants and bars have garnered a loyal following and consistently receive high praise, making F&B a vital aspect of our overall revenue strategy.
What is the marketing strategy you have adopted to promote your property?
Our marketing strategy is focused on highlighting the unique experiences that the hotel has to offer. We leverage digital platforms, social media and targeted campaigns to reach our audience, emphasising our cultural initiatives, culinary excellence and bespoke guest services. Collaborations with influencers, curated events and participation in industry trade shows also play a crucial role in our promotional efforts. Additionally, we maintain strong relationships with travel agencies, corporate partners and media outlets to ensure our brand is top of mind for travellers and event organisers.
How is Le Meridien New Delhi performing in terms of MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions) tourism?
Our hotel has established itself as a premier destination for MICE tourism. Our state-of-the-art conference facilities, versatile meeting spaces and professional event-planning services have made us a preferred choice for corporate events, conferences and exhibitions. The hotel’s prime location, combined with our expertise in delivering seamless and memorable events, has resulted in strong performance in the MICE segment. We continue to see a steady influx of business travellers and organisations choosing our venue for their important events.
What are some of the facilities that guests at Le Meridien New Delhi can avail?
Guests can enjoy a wide range of facilities designed to enhance their stay. These include well-appointed guest rooms, a fully equipped fitness centre, a rejuvenating spa and an outdoor swimming pool with stunning city views. Our dining options cater to diverse tastes and our concierge service ensures that every need is met with precision. Additionally, our business centre, high-speed internet and comprehensive meeting facilities provide everything business travellers need to stay productive.
What, according to you, is the latest trend in the hospitality industry?
The latest trend in the hospitality industry is a strong focus on personalised and experiential travel. Guests today seek more than just accommodation; they desire unique experiences that resonate with their interests and values. This includes everything from curated cultural experiences and wellness-focused amenities to sustainable practices and locally sourced dining options. At Le Meridien New Delhi, we are embracing these trends by offering tailored experiences that allow our guests to engage with the local culture and environment in meaningful ways.
What are the key challenges that lie ahead for you in the future?
One of the key challenges we foresee is the ever-evolving expectations of modern travellers. As the industry becomes increasingly competitive, we must continuously innovate and adapt to meet the changing demands of our guests. Sustainability is also a significant challenge, as there is growing pressure to implement eco-friendly practices without compromising the comfort that our guests expect. Additionally, staying ahead in the digital landscape, particularly in terms of online marketing and guest engagement, will be crucial as technology continues to reshape the hospitality industry.
