Radisson Hotel Group (RHG) is setting the pace for global hospitality in 2025 with bold expansion plans. With a diverse brand portfolio, strong mid-market play, and commitment to sustainability, RHG is redefining hospitality by blending local authenticity with global standards. Nikhil Sharma, Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer, South Asia at Radisson Hotel Group, reveals the driving forces behind this momentum and where it is headed.
With nine distinct brands from Radisson Blu to Radisson RED and Park Inn & Suites, RHG offers a tailored hospitality experience across luxury, upscale, and mid-market segments. A strong partnership approach is at the heart of its growth, offering its owners flexible, cost-effective models built for long-term success.
For RHG, 2025 is shaping up to be a landmark year in its global expansion journey. Backed by a sharpened five-year strategy, the group is making bold moves in both established and emerging markets. Europe, the Middle East, and South Africa stand out as key regions of opportunity. In India, it continues to solidify its presence in major metros and tier 2 and 3 cities, ensuring a range of options for both business and leisure travel.
Powering Europe’s Tourism Revival
In Europe, the brand continues to be a preferred choice for those seeking authenticity and consistency in their travel experiences. According to Nikhil, business travel is steadily bouncing back, especially in key European cities, and Radisson’s centrally located hotels are meeting today’s professional demands of seamless service, co-working spaces, and flexible meeting areas. He says, “The reopening of the Radisson Collection Hotel in Berlin captures our approach to luxury, rooted in local culture, but elevated through thoughtful design and personalised service. We aim to create similar memorable, meaningful, and deeply personal experiences across all our properties.”
Expansion Strategy for India
India continues to be one of RHG’s most strategic and high-potential markets. Nikhil proudly shares the incredible milestone of crossing 200 properties in South Asia and credits this success to the trust of RHG’s partners and guests. Explaining the play behind the growth, he notes, “Our expansion strategy is focused on deepening our presence in both metro cities and high-growth tier 2 and 3 markets. Cities like Indore, Raipur, Amritsar, Puri, and Siliguri are seeing increased demand from leisure, business, wellness, and spiritual travellers, and we are ensuring our brands are well-positioned to meet these needs.”
The primary focus is the upper midscale and mid-scale segments through core brands, like Radisson, Park Inn by Radisson, alongside experiential brands like Radisson Individuals and Radisson Individuals Retreats. Nikhil asserts, “Wherever there is demand, we strive to be present, offering a consistent brand promise and a deep understanding of local sensibilities. This hyperlocal, guest-first strategy drives our momentum in India.”
Sustainability is Key
At RHG, sustainability is not an option; it is a responsibility. Every new hotel signing aligns with the group’s responsible business framework, focusing on sustainable design and community engagement. At its core is a commitment to net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, backed by initiatives like renewable energy use, water and waste reduction, and local partnerships to drive eco-conscious tourism.
“In India, we encourage our partners to adopt sustainable construction practices, integrate responsible procurement strategies, and work with local small businesses to promote community-driven development. Our ESG approach goes beyond the environment; we are focused on building inclusive teams, supporting local employment, and offering guests meaningful travel experiences. We believe that building a future-ready hospitality ecosystem means prioritising people and the planet alongside profitability,” shares Nikhil.
Mid-Market Play
As global hospitality players clamour towards the mid-market segment, RHG stands out with an experience-led brand architecture that caters to the evolving needs of today’s value-conscious yet experience-driven traveller. Brands like Park Inn by Radisson and Radisson RED, designed to deliver modern, functional comfort with a touch of personality, resonate deeply in both urban and secondary markets.
Nikhil notes, “Technology and operational excellence enhance our value proposition from streamlined check-ins to smart energy solutions. What truly differentiates us is our people and our signature Radisson ‘Yes I Can!’ service philosophy. In a crowded market, our mix of design, localised service, and reliability drives mid-market leadership.
Looking ahead, Radisson aims to be a key player in India’s rise as a global tourism leader by 2035. By staying aligned with evolving travel trends and national tourism goals and keeping sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity at the heart of its strategy, RHG is positioning itself to help shape the future of Indian hospitality.
 is setting the pace for global hospitality in 2025 with bold expansion plans. With a diverse brand portfolio, strong mid-market play, and commitment to sustainability, RHG is redefining hospitality by blending local authenticity with global standards. Nikhil Sharma, Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer, South Asia at Radisson Hotel Group, reveals the driving forces behind this momentum and where it is headed.){kind=link}