In an exclusive interview with Today’s Traveller, Sanjay Gupta, General Manager, Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel & Convention Center, speaks on strategies and innovations to make the convention centre a preferred choice for high-profile events and conferences in Bengaluru.
TT Bureau: As the General Manager of Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel & Convention Center, what is your leadership philosophy, and how does it influence your vision for the hotel and convention centre’s future?
Sanjay Gupta: My leadership philosophy is deeply rooted in the “Take Care” principle of Marriott International, a commitment to prioritizing the well-being and development of our associates. The core tenet of “Put People First” guides our actions, and we strive to fulfill our commitment to associates by providing them with meaningful opportunities, fostering a sense of community, and ensuring a clear purpose in their roles. Our vision for the future of the hotel and convention centre is intricately tied to this leadership philosophy.
By placing our employees at the forefront, we recognize that they are the driving force behind the success of our establishment.
TT Bureau: In a rapidly evolving hospitality industry, especially in a dynamic city like Bengaluru, how do you ensure that Sheraton Grand stays ahead of market trends and continues to meet the evolving needs of your guests?
Sanjay Gupta: Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel and Convention Center remains at the forefront by prioritizing service excellence and a genuine commitment to caring for our guests.
To ensure we stay ahead of market trends, we actively seek and value guest feedback through surveys, reviews, and direct interactions, using this information to adapt our offerings. Our staff is empowered through continuous training, keeping them well-versed in the latest industry trends and technological advancements.
By embracing an adaptable service model, we swiftly adjust our amenities and service delivery methods to align with evolving guest preferences. Personalized experiences are at the core of our approach. Technology integration, community engagement, and a focus on sustainability further contribute to our ability to meet the diverse needs of both local and international guests.
Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel & Convention Center is not only committed to keeping pace with market trends but also to setting new standards, providing unparalleled service that truly takes care of our guests.
TT Bureau: Sustainability is becoming increasingly important in the hospitality sector. Could you share some of the sustainable practices that have been implemented, and how they impact your operations and guest experience?
Sanjay Gupta: Some of the sustainable projects that we’ve adopted and are continuing to implement this year are promoting water conservation and a recycling program for various materials.
We have already invested in renewable energy sources. We are also using energy-efficient lighting and appliances, sourcing produce and utilities locally, and promoting sustainable tourism. We plan to continue to partner with local organizations, and implement a green purchasing policy.
Among these focus areas, a few highlights from Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield’s key initiatives towards sustainability goals are as follows:
- The usage of cage-free eggs by Q3 2023 reflects Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield’s dedication to animal welfare and ethical sourcing practices. The hotel prioritizes the production of healthy eggs while upholding its values of compassion.
- Adopting a farm-to-fork concept, Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield prioritizes locally sourced ingredients, reducing food miles and supporting local farmers. From herbs-infused beverages to exotic salads, the hotel’s culinary offerings showcase the richness of regional produce, fostering a sustainable food ecosystem.
- Food waste tracking on the Mesh platform enables Sheraton Bengaluru Whitefield to analyze and optimize its waste management practices. Through recycling, composting, and waste reduction initiatives, the hotel minimizes its environmental impact while promoting a circular economy.
- The utilization of renewable energy, exemplified by the installation of solar panels, further solidifies Sheraton Bengaluru Whitefield’s commitment to sustainable operations. By harnessing solar power, the hotel reduces its reliance on fossil fuels, contributing to a cleaner, greener future.
- While touching upon the importance of guest engagement in driving sustainability initiatives, the linen and terry reuse program empowers guests to participate in water and energy conservation efforts, fostering a culture of environmental responsibility among visitors.
- The installation of EV chargers and the phase-out of single-use plastic for hydration underscore its dedication to sustainable transportation and plastic reduction, respectively.
- Implementation of residential bath amenities wherein bath products are installed in large dispensers in guest rooms, gym and spa to preclude the use of single-use plastic bath gel, shampoo and hair conditioner bottles.
TT Bureau: As a prominent venue for events and conventions, walk us through the strategies and innovations implemented to make the convention centre a preferred choice for high-profile events and conferences in Bengaluru.
Sanjay Gupta: The success of Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel & Convention Center as a preferred venue for high-profile events and conferences in Bengaluru is underpinned by strategic initiatives and innovative offerings.
Our convention center stands out with its expansive and versatile event spaces, encompassing state-of-the-art meeting rooms, elegant ballrooms, and advanced conference facilities.
This diverse range of venues allows us to cater to events of varying sizes and formats, providing flexibility for customization. To better serve distinct market segments, we have tailored our services for convention associations, aligning our offerings with the specific needs of different industries and professional groups.
A key aspect of our success lies in the delegation of dedicated resources to handle event confirmations and logistics, ensuring seamless coordination and clear communication. This streamlined approach, coupled with personalized event planning services, positions us as a reliable and efficient partner for event organizers.
Our commitment to incorporating the latest technology, coupled with strategic marketing initiatives and a focus on fostering networking opportunities, solidifies Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel & Convention Center’s positioning.
As a hotel, we take pride in hosting weddings and we understand the significance of these celebrations not just as personal milestones but as contributors to the broader economy.
Our wedding services extend beyond providing luxurious venues; we actively collaborate with local vendors, artisans, and talent to curate unique and unforgettable experiences.
With 64,620 sq. ft. of pillar-less space, 10 event spaces that can be further broken out into 16 venues and a capacity to host over 3000 guests it is one of India’s largest convention hotels.
Our convention center is a perfect destination for hosting a grand wedding, a full-scale trade show, a closed conference, a private event or a small gathering.
With an unobstructed height of 50 feet across 64,620 sq ft, we have the city’s largest premium meeting and conference destination featuring 7180 sq. mt. of total function space, including 1650 sq. mt. in the adjoining convention center.
Moreover, conducting weddings within India allows us to showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes. Our wedding offerings are designed to incorporate elements that celebrate the beauty of Indian traditions while providing a world-class experience.
Read more: Today’s Traveller Interviews
