Minor Hotels CEO on Innovation, Wellness and Luxury: Skift Asia Forum Speaker Preview

Under the leadership of Dillip Rajakerier, Group CEO of Minor International and CEO of Minor Hotels, the company has strategically positioned itself as a pioneer in redefining what luxury hospitality looks like in Asia.

With a portfolio of over 560 properties worldwide, Minor Hotels is pushing boundaries in innovation, sustainability, and cultural immersion, offering transformative guest experiences that go beyond the ordinary.

Ahead of his keynote at Skift Asia Forum on ‘Reimagining Hospitality at Scale,’ Dillip Rajakerier shares insights into the future of travel, the evolving landscape of luxury, and how Minor Hotels is shaping Asia’s booming hospitality sector.

What is your company’s vision for the future of travel, and how are you leading or shaping it?

“Our goal at Minor has always been to be the best, not necessarily the biggest.”

“We see the future of travel as an opportunity to deepen cultural immersion, champion sustainability, and infuse every stay with wellness and innovation. Owning around 70% of our 560 hotels under our ‘asset-right’ strategy gives us a lot of freedom to test new ideas and implement them quickly. We’ve embedded technology and transformation as part of our strategy as we look to drive seamless travel experiences and tailor our services to each destination.”

Travel across Asia is accelerating – but where do you see friction or slowdown?

“Asia’s travel market is booming – thanks to younger, experience-seeking explorers and a strong demand for premium hospitality.”

Of course, infrastructure gaps, geopolitical issues, and rising costs can slow progress. However, with more travellers choosing Asia over traditional markets and a growing appetite for top-quality experiences, these challenges are more like minor speed bumps than real barriers.” 

“When you look at global travel and tourism spend, you see the numbers on the rise, with tourism becoming a key economic pillar for many countries in terms of GDP contribution. India, now our fourth-largest source market for AMEA right behind China, is a prime example of this new, vibrant traveller demographic that’s powering Asia’s momentum.”

How has White Lotus opened new opportunities for Southeast Asia to connect with global travelers?

“Southeast Asia’s reputation as a budget-friendly destination only captures one aspect of its story.”

“The region is evolving rapidly, and Thailand in particular has emerged as a leader in world-class luxury hospitality and wellness. The White Lotus – shot across several Minor Hotels properties in Thailand – has helped to showcase this to the world, shifting perceptions from low-cost travel to premium lifestyle escapes centered on wellness and cultural experiences.”

“This media spotlight has boosted bookings and rates at our Anantara properties and proven that high-profile cultural events – whether it’s The White Lotus or major concerts – can enhance a region’s appeal and fuel demand for everything from leisure vacations to destination weddings.”

What does “luxury” mean in 2025 – and how is that definition changing for your audience?

“Luxury today is all about context – it’s delivering exactly what you need at the right moment, whether that’s a streamlined business trip, a culturally rich family getaway, or a soul-soothing wellness retreat.” 

“Sure, comfort and opulence still matter, but increasingly it’s about ‘quiet luxury’ where substance, sustainability, and thoughtful service take the spotlight. We’re seeing a move toward experiences that tell a story – whether it’s through gourmet food, vibrant beach clubs, outdoor adventures, or deep local connections.”

“At Anantara, we’ve been ahead of this trend for some time, continuously broadening our offerings, launching fresh concepts like The Vietage, and blending tech-driven personalisation with a human touch.”

What’s one big bet you’re making on the future of travel in Asia?

“I wouldn’t call them ‘bets’ – we’re making solid, informed investments in what we know is the future of travel in Asia.” 

“We’re focusing on emerging secondary destinations and the booming wellness market with innovations like Layan Life by Anantara, while also entering or expanding our presence in key markets like India, Japan, and Singapore.”

“At the same time, we’re expanding our midscale and economy segments to meet a wider range of traveller needs. With a vibrant middle class on the rise and two of the world’s largest economies right at Asia’s doorstep, the region is set to become a powerhouse for travel and tourism, packed with diverse experiences and opportunities for growth.”

Hear More from Dillip Rajakarier at Skift Asia Forum

As Dillip Rajakerier will take the stage at Skift Asia Forum, his forward-thinking approach to hospitality promises to spark critical conversations about the future of travel. His leadership at Minor Hotels and Minor International is reshaping how we think about luxury, sustainability, and guest experiences. Join Dillip and other industry leaders at Skift Asia Forum to get the insights that will help you stay ahead.