Radisson, MBD Partner to Expand Luxury Hotels

Radisson Hotel Group earlier this week announced a long-term strategic partnership with MBD Group to expand its luxury and lifestyle hotel presence in India through a Master Franchise Agreement.

The collaboration focuses on strengthening the footprint of Radisson Collection and Radisson RED brands across key domestic markets, aligned with the group’s broader growth strategy in the country.

Under the agreement, MBD Group will support the development of Radisson Collection and Radisson RED hotels at mutually identified locations.

Key Highlights

• Radisson signs Master Franchise Agreement with MBD Group to expand luxury brands in India
• Focus on Radisson Collection and Radisson RED across key domestic markets
• 80% managed/franchised and 20% owned model supports asset-light growth strategy

Its role will span business development, hotel management, and franchising functions, complementing Radisson Hotel Group’s independent expansion initiatives and existing partner network in India.

Radisson Hotel Group noted that India’s premium hospitality segment is witnessing strong growth, driven by rising demand for contemporary, design-oriented lifestyle experiences among domestic and international travellers. The partnership will enhance the group’s ability to scale its upper-upscale and lifestyle brands while maintaining brand standards and guest experience consistency.

According to Nikhil Sharma, Managing Director and COO for South Asia at Radisson Hotel Group, MBD Group’s two-decade association strengthens expansion capabilities across key Indian cities. Sonica Malhotra Kandhari described the agreement as a strategic milestone aligned with MBD’s long-term hospitality growth vision.

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The portfolio will follow an 80% managed and franchised hotels and 20% owned properties mix, reflecting an asset-light expansion model for faster market penetration and optimized capital deployment. India remains a priority growth market, with rising demand in urban and emerging destinations.