TMS. What was the driving force behind Encalm’s creation, and how do you envision the brand evolving in airport hospitality?
Vikas Sharma. The creation of Encalm Hospitality was driven by the recognition of a gap in the airport experience—a need for elevated, seamless services that transcend traditional offerings. As air travel continues to grow exponentially, passengers increasingly seek curated experiences that combine efficiency with luxury. Encalm was conceived to redefine airport hospitality by delivering services rooted in the ethos of Atithi Devo Bhava (guest is god), blending Indian warmth with world-class standards. Our vision is to evolve as the benchmark for luxury airport experiences, leveraging cutting-edge technology, and personalized services. Future developments include expanding our Privé luxury lounges to key metropolitan hubs, introducing innovative transit services, and eventually venturing into international airports. By continuously adapting to emerging travel trends, we aim to lead the way in reshaping global airport hospitality.
TMS. With several players in the airport hospitality space, what sets Encalm apart? How do you ensure that Encalm offers a unique, top-tier experience compared to other premium lounges and services?
Vikas Sharma. Encalm stands apart by seamlessly integrating technology, personalization, and sustainability into every aspect of the traveler journey. Our lounges, including the flagship Privé at Delhi International Airport, are designed to be sanctuaries of relaxation, offering amenities like live cooking stations, wellness zones, sleeping pods, fitness centers, and curated entertainment. What truly differentiates us is our commitment to anticipating traveler needs. Through data-driven insights and real-time guest feedback, we offer tailored experiences that blend luxury with efficiency. Additionally, our Atithya Meet & Greet services provide an extra layer of convenience and care, ensuring that every guest, from high-end corporate travelers to leisure tourists, feels valued and well-catered to.
TMS. Personalization, wellness, and sustainability are growing trends in the travel industry. How is Encalm responding to these demands, and what steps are you taking to cater to the evolving needs of today’s travelers?
Vikas Sharma. At Encalm, we are proactively responding to these transformative trends:
1. Personalization: Our upcoming CRM integration will enable us to deliver hyper-customized services, from bespoke lounge experiences to personalized meet-and-greet assistance.
2. Wellness: Features like spa services, wellness zones, and healthy dining options ensure a holistic approach to traveler well-being.
3. Sustainability: Initiatives like biodegradable packaging in Enwrap services and eco-conscious amenities in our lounges reflect our commitment to reducing our environmental footprint. We are also exploring energy-efficient solutions for our operations.
4. These efforts ensure we stay aligned with the expectations of today’s travelers while setting the stage for a sustainable, guest-centric future.
ES. In your opinion, how have travelers’ expectations around airport experiences changed in the past few years, particularly with the rise of business and leisure travel?
Vikas Sharma. Travelers today view airports not just as transit hubs but as integral parts of their journeys. There’s a growing expectation for services that offer comfort, efficiency, and enrichment. Business travelers prioritize fast-track access and seamless connectivity, while leisure travelers seek relaxation, wellness options, and unique experiences that enhance their trips. The pandemic has also amplified the need for contactless solutions, hygiene standards, and sustainability, prompting airports to adapt rapidly. Encalm addresses these evolving expectations by offering state-of-the-art lounges, wellness-focused amenities, and efficient, technology-driven services.
ES. Could you share how your signature service, Atithya Meet & Greet, is enhancing the overall airport journey, especially for high-end and corporate travelers?
Vikas Sharma. The Atithya Meet & Greet service embodies the spirit of Indian hospitality, offering a seamless, stress-free airport journey. From personalized assistance at check-in and security to baggage handling and fast-track services, every detail is thoughtfully curated. For high-end and corporate travelers, this translates into saved time, exclusive access, and a hassle-free experience that allows them to focus on their priorities. This service not only enhances convenience but also elevates the emotional connection between Encalm and its guests, leaving them with lasting impressions of care and excellence.
ES. Transit by Encalm in Hyderabad is an innovative concept for long-layover travelers. Could you share more about the services you offer there, and how they cater to the specific needs of passengers with extended transit times?
Vikas Sharma. Transit by Encalm at Hyderabad International Airport caters to travelers with extended layovers by providing a sanctuary of comfort and convenience. The facility offers 57 rooms and suites designed for rest, along with amenities like 24/7 dining, spa services, and a fitness center. Travelers can choose from tailored packages that include rest pods for short stays or fully serviced suites for longer durations. This innovation bridges the gap between traditional lounge services and hotel stays, ensuring travelers remain rejuvenated and productive during their transit.
ES. The MICE market is a significant segment of the travel industry. How does Encalm cater to MICE travelers, and what services are specifically tailored to their needs?
Vikas Sharma. Encalm is uniquely positioned to cater to the MICE segment by offering tailored solutions that prioritize efficiency and premium services. Our lounges provide meeting spaces equipped with high-speed connectivity and modern amenities, ideal for business travelers and group bookings. The Atithya Meet & Greet service adds a layer of seamless coordination for MICE groups, from fast-tracking arrivals to baggage handling.
ES. Looking ahead, what are your plans for expanding Encalm’s footprint across India, and do you have any plans to venture into international airports or new services that cater to the evolving traveler?
Vikas Sharma. Our immediate plans include expanding the Privé luxury lounge concept to Hyderabad and other key Indian airports. We are also enhancing our offerings at Delhi with additional premium lounges and spa facilities. On the horizon, we envision entering international markets, bringing Encalm’s unique blend of Indian hospitality and modern luxury to a global audience.
We are also exploring innovative services such as AI-driven guest personalization, eco-friendly initiatives, and curated transit experiences. These expansions will enable us to remain at the forefront of redefining airport hospitality, catering to the dynamic needs of modern travelers.
