"Merlin Group Collaborates with IHCL to Rebrand Kolkata Resort"

The Merlin Group, in collaboration with Tata Group's hospitality arm Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), is set to rejuvenate its longstanding resort in Kolkata, marking a significant development in the city's hospitality landscape.

With plans to infuse approximately ₹60 crore into the resort's enhancement and expansion over the next 14-15 months, the Kolkata-based Merlin Group aims to elevate the property's offerings near Joka. The partnership between IHCL and Merlin Group, formalized through a memorandum of understanding (MOU), entails IHCL assuming management responsibilities while Merlin retains ownership.

Sushil Mohta, Chairman of Merlin Group, expressed the company's intent to expand its presence in the hospitality sector, citing IHCL as the preferred collaborator for future endeavors.

Situated on Diamond Harbour Road in Kriparampur, a sought-after tourist destination, the urban resort IBIZA, an IHCL SeleQtions property, is slated to open its doors in October 2025. Boasting 130 keys, the resort aims to offer a seamless blend of luxury and comfort to patrons.

The addition of IBIZA bolsters IHCL's portfolio in Kolkata, bringing the total count to seven hotels under the Taj, SeleQtions, Vivanta, and Ginger brands, including those in the development pipeline.

Suma Venkatesh, Executive Vice President of Real Estate & Development at IHCL, hailed the MOU signing as a pivotal move towards expanding IHCL's presence in Kolkata. Recognizing the city's status as a bustling metropolitan hub, Venkatesh emphasized the resort's strategic role in catering to the rising demand for leisure and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) destinations within short driving distances from the city center.

The collaboration with Merlin Group, a prominent real estate entity in East India, underscores IHCL's commitment to enhancing hospitality experiences and catering to evolving consumer preferences in Kolkata's dynamic market.

HBL