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75 New Hampton by Hilton Hotels to Open in India – Image Credit Hilton
Hilton has signed a strategic licensing agreement with NILE Hospitality to open 75 Hampton by Hilton hotels in India. This marks a significant expansion of Hilton’s mid-market portfolio in response to the rising demand from the country’s growing middle class.
Hilton (NYSE: HLT) announced an ambitious expansion plan in India today through a strategic licensing agreement (SLA) with NILE Hospitality. The deal entails the opening of 75 Hampton by Hilton Hotels in India, contributing to over 3,000 hotels operating under the brand worldwide. This move reflects Hilton’s commitment to growth in India following a prior agreement in 2024 to bring 150 Spark by Hilton hotels to the country in collaboration with Olive by Embassy.
Alan Watts, President of Asia Pacific, Hilton, expressed that this significant development marks Hilton’s mid-market moment in India. He noted the role of macroeconomic growth, a rapidly rising middle class, and vast infrastructure development in fuelling demand for Hilton’s brands. Watts emphasized the agreement as an important milestone in Hilton’s growth acceleration in India and a new chapter of expansion in the Asia Pacific.
The first Hampton by Hilton hotels, part of the agreement with NILE Hospitality, will debut in Gujarat, Rajasthan, Punjab, and Bihar. The Hampton by Hilton brand caters to the upper midscale segment, marking an expansion of Hilton’s existing midscale category in India following the growth of the upscale Hilton Garden Inn and the forthcoming premium economy brand, Spark by Hilton.
Kevin Jacobs, CFO & President, Global Development, Hilton, asserted the value Hampton by Hilton brings to guests and owners. He noted the efficient design and consistent service approach the brand offers, which drive premium performance and scale. Jacobs opined that the present time is ripe for this brand to scale in India, given the significant opportunities to serve a rapidly growing customer base.
Hampton by Hilton, Hilton’s largest brand by hotel numbers, appeals to value-conscious and quality-driven travellers with its friendly and caring hospitality, known as ‘Hamptonality’. The complimentary hot breakfast, open-concept lobby, and modern design make it a popular choice for guests in over 40 countries. The brand has been ranked the number one lodging franchise for the past 16 years by Entrepreneur® magazine.
Vikram Singh Chauhan, Founder and CEO of NILE Hospitality, expressed his delight over the partnership with Hilton, which he said offers an extraordinary opportunity for NILE to tap into the country’s growing middle-income segment’s potential.
Hampton by Hilton has been adapted to the Asia Pacific market, successfully expanding in China over the last decade. Recent openings include Hampton by Hilton Hangzhou Lakeside Wulin Square, Hampton by Hilton Guangzhou Huangpu Sports Center, and Hampton Suzhou Guanqian Avenue.
Shruti Gandhi Buckley, Senior Vice President and Global Brand Leader, Hampton by Hilton, reinforced that the strategic licensing agreement enhances Hampton by Hilton’s global brand strength. She highlighted how owners value Hampton’s legacy of leadership and performance, while guests appreciate the signature Hamptonality service, modern design, and complimentary hot breakfast.
Founded in 2018, NILE Hospitality is India’s leading hotel management company. Known for managing full-spectrum hotel operations, delivering results, and creating memorable guest experiences, NILE has a strong presence across 14 states and a growing portfolio of 24 hotels.