Brands
Le Méridien checks into Mumbai with runway-ready luxury and charm
MUMBAI: Suite dreams are set to land in Mumbai, as Marriott International and The Balwa Group ink a stylish new chapter with the upcoming Le Méridien Mumbai International Airport. Set just two kilometres from the airport, the hotel is slated for a January 2029 debut and promises to blend the city’s creative pulse with the brand’s signature mid-century modern aesthetic. The announcement marks Le Méridien’s grand arrival into India’s financial capital, a destination where tradition tangoes with modernity.
With 161 sleek rooms and suites on the cards, the hotel will cater to global travellers seeking timeless style and curated experiences. Guests can expect a specialty restaurant, patisserie, and the signature Le Méridien Hub, an elegant reinterpretation of the hotel lobby, where espresso meets aperitifs at the Latitude/Longitude Bar.
“Le Méridien has always inspired travelers to explore the world in style and savor the good life through the lens of its creative-minded spirit, and what better city to continue this journey than in the lively, ever-evolving city of Mumbai”, said Marriott International regional vice president for South Asi Ranju Alex. “The brand’s mid-century design, captivating spaces and chic, signature programming will offer a distinct stay experience to world travelers visiting the city. This signing marks a strategic step in expanding Marriott International’s lifestyle portfolio across the region, and we are excited to once again collaborate with The Balwa Group, ensuring delivery of the highest standards of hospitality, in line with our values.”
“We are thrilled to continue our relationship with Marriott International through the signing of Le Méridien Mumbai International Airport,” said The Balwa Group director and vice president Rafiq Balwa. “This marks the third hotel collaboration between the two groups, following the success of Fairfield by Marriott Mumbai International Airport and the soon-to-open The Ballard – A Tribute Portfolio Hotel. This hotel will be a landmark in our portfolio – combining global design sensibilities with the cultural richness of Mumbai. Le Méridien, a brand known for unlocking the charm of each destination through curated experiences and timeless style, will bring a fresh perspective to Mumbai’s hospitality scene. As we continue to expand our hospitality footprint, we are committed to creating iconic destinations that offer exceptional experiences and reflect our unwavering passion for excellence.”
The hotel is the third partnership between Marriott and The Balwa Group, following Fairfield by Marriott Mumbai and the soon-to-open The Ballard – A Tribute Portfolio Hotel.
The hotel will also house a 1,357 sq metre banquet area with expansive lawns and an open-air terrace making it perfect for everything from boardroom huddles to baraats. Leisure seekers can unwind in the open-air pool, spa, or at the fully equipped fitness centre.
As Mumbai’s skyline evolves, Le Méridien’s arrival is poised to add a new layer of elegance to its hospitality map with a brand that believes the journey should be just as beautiful as the destination.
Brands
Jubilant FoodWorks faces Rs 47.5 crore GST demand, plans appeal
Tax authorities flag alleged misclassification of restaurant services
MUMBAI: Jubilant FoodWorks Limited has landed in a tax tussle after receiving a GST demand of Rs 47.5 crore from the office of the additional commissioner of CGST and central excise in Thane, Maharashtra.
The order, issued under the provisions of the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017, relates to an alleged incorrect classification of certain services under the category of restaurant services. According to the tax authorities, this classification resulted in a short payment of goods and services tax for the period between the financial years 2019-20 and 2021-22.
The demand includes Rs 47.5 crore in GST along with an equal amount as penalty, in addition to applicable interest. The order was received by the company on March 13, 2026.
In a regulatory filing to the BSE Limited and the National Stock Exchange of India Limited, the company said it disagrees with the order and believes its arguments were not adequately considered.
The company is preparing to challenge the decision and plans to file an appeal. It added that once the redressal process is complete, the demand is likely to be dropped.
Despite the sizeable figure attached to the notice, the company said it does not expect any material impact on its financials, operations or other activities.
The disclosure was signed by Suman Hegde, EVP and chief financial officer, who confirmed that the company received the order at 19:06 IST on March 13 and has already initiated steps to contest it.
The development places the quick service restaurant major in the middle of a tax debate that could hinge on how certain restaurant-linked services are classified under GST rules. For now, the company appears ready to take the matter from the tax office to the appeals desk.
