MICE Generates Substantial Revenue For Us Followed By Weddings: Pavan Kumar, Pullman-Novotel New Delhi Aerocity

MICE and Weddings are bringing back profits for the hospitality industry in a big way. Post-pandemic, hotels across the length and breadth of the country have witnessed a phenomenal rise in revenues as far as these two streams are concerned.

While profitability driven by MICE and Weddings is a common factor, however, every brand has its own success story to share.

As part of our series on MICE & Weddings, we recently spoke to Pavan Kumar, Director Sales & Marketing, Pullman-Novotel New Delhi Aerocity, here are some excerpts from the interview.

Has the hospitality industry returned to its profitable phase post-pandemic, what has been the story of Pullman/Novotel?

Our industry is known for its resilience! We adapt to every situation easily while also managing to keep the ‘wow’ factor unscathed for the guests. The pandemic gave us an opportunity to innovate and engage even more with our patrons through newer avenues. Customers are back seeking their preferred homestays, resorts, hotels, and restaurants but this time with the expectation of contactless technologies for their safe stay. There is definitely an elevation in the hospitality industry and at Pullman, we are planning on re-gaining pre-covid revenue phase by integrating new-age technologies in every sphere, involving mobile apps, digital concierge services, automated check-in, and check-out and keyless entry systems to re-gain the pre-covid momentum. Gradually the industry is reinventing itself to meet new challenges and stay ahead of the curve. As travelers seek meaningful experiences, we will develop deeper connections and personalisation options that provide significant gratification.  

What are your differential offerings in the MICE segment?

At Pullman, we have 40,000 sq.ft. pillarless ballrooms with a clear height of 22 ft and different themes, which is the largest in Aerocity. The mystical peacock-themed decor banquet with the rain shower installations on the ceiling is our signature ballroom that serves as the perfect venue for grand weddings. With flexible usage, our property comprises rooms for differently abled people, breakout rooms, and co-meeting rooms to cater to the varied needs of the customers. From deluxe rooms to presidential suites, with 670 room inventory of Pullman and Novotel rooms comes in different categories in order to provide a democratised experience all under the same roof. 

What are your differential offerings in the Wedding Segment?

We believe weddings have always been special to our culture and therefore at Pullman,  our signature wedding concept remains a key focus in the business segment. There is a growing demand to create a unique and unforgettable wedding experience that is truly a reflection of the couple. Another important aspect that comes under this is the food and beverage segment where guests are always seeking new relevant and trendy dining experiences. We also serve as a location for pre & post-wedding ceremonies with our spacious outdoor setting. Our property is diverse enough to accommodate up to 500 guests and different venues that suit different occasions like mehndi, sagan, and reception.  

Between MICE & Weddings, which one is a bigger revenue generator for you?

MICE definitely generates substantial revenue for complex hotels throughout the year. It is a profitable source of business for many types of operators in the hospitality industry. Being the fastest growing segment in the travel sector, it is yielding millions of dollars in revenue every year. On the other hand, weddings are the second largest source of revenue as everybody spends a fortune on grand marriage ceremonies. There is always a trend to create and curate beautiful experiences when it comes to weddings and thus it is integral to our business. But from an overall perspective, MICE is an all-year performer for us. 

You have played a big role in unleashing the revenue potential at Pullman/Novotel, what is your vision for the group?

We always aim to strike a balance between various segments, that is, MICE, weddings, and basic seasonality in order to optimise revenue. Our focus is to enhance the meeting planners programme which helps us build loyalty and further develop a stronger brand recall. Pullman being a safe haven for business travelers and young entrepreneurs is what makes the brand purposeful. Our vision is to extend this very nature by building relationships with our target audience, thus creating a familial bond with our customers.  

What are the big challenges facing the hospitality sector today?

In my opinion, it's the changing expectations of guests vs marginally customised services which prevailed after the onset of Covid-19. The current challenge is that standardisation can no longer be the norm as it's becoming critical to personalise and tailor the services to the needs and preferences of the travellers. To curb this challenge, the idea is to create value and exploit technology as an accelerator for business. We believe that technology will be at the core of the hotel experience - right from the moment a customer checks in till they check out. This will eventually contribute to an even more individualised customer experience.