Starhotels, Italy’s leading private hotel group by revenue, has announced a strategic partnership between its I AM STAR loyalty program and Taj InnerCircle – NeuPass, the loyalty platform of the Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL). The collaboration aims to expand international travel benefits for members of both programs while strengthening customer engagement across key global markets.
The partnership supports the international expansion strategy of Starhotels’ I AM STAR program and comes amid growing travel between Europe and India, as well as the increasing importance of loyalty programs in influencing travellers’ accommodation choices.
Through the collaboration, I AM STAR connects with Taj InnerCircle – NeuPass, which has more than 13 million members worldwide. The partnership is designed to encourage cross-engagement between the two loyalty communities, offering members access to a wider hospitality network, enhanced travel experiences and exclusive benefits across both brands.
Commenting on the partnership, Elisabetta Fabri, President and CEO of Starhotels, said, “This partnership represents a significant step in the international development of our I AM STAR loyalty program across high-growth markets, offering our members the opportunity to enjoy increasingly valuable and rewarding experiences. Through our collaboration with IHCL’s Taj InnerCircle – NeuPass, we are further expanding the travel opportunities and benefits available to our members, while also strengthening I AM STAR’s ability to attract new customers by providing access to an international network of outstanding destinations and properties.”
The partnership brings together two hospitality groups that share a focus on guest-centric service, authentic hospitality and elevated travel experiences. I AM STAR members will gain access to IHCL’s global portfolio, which includes more than 640 hotels across 15 countries and brands such as Taj, Claridges Collection, Brij, SeleQtions, Clarks, Gateway, Vivanta, Tree of Life and amã Stays & Trails. This includes iconic properties such as The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai.
Meanwhile, Taj InnerCircle – NeuPass members will enjoy exclusive privileges at Starhotels’ portfolio of hotels across Italy, as well as properties in London, Paris and New York.
Puneet Chhatwal, Managing Director and CEO of IHCL, said, “India-Europe travel is on the rise, driven by strong outbound demand and increasing global interest in India’s cultural and leisure experiences. Through this partnership with Starhotels, Taj InnerCircle – NeuPass extends its presence into key European markets, enabling members to access a wider network of hotels and benefits that enhance their overall travel journey.”
Members of both programs will enjoy reciprocal benefits, including preferred room rates, dedicated dining privileges and wellness offers, all bookable through the respective brand platforms.
The partnership covers Starhotels Collezione and Starhotels Premium properties, along with selected hotels across IHCL’s global portfolio. Both companies said the collaboration reflects the growing role of loyalty programs in building long-term relationships with international travellers while enhancing travel experiences across their respective hospitality networks.
