Yogesh Magar

Yogesh Magar, a prominent figure in the Indian hospitality industry, hails from the renowned Magar family of Pune, Maharashtra. His legacy is tied to the creation of Magarpatta City, a pioneering 400-acre development where over 120 farmer families came together to build a thriving community. Magarpatta City, a blend of residential, commercial and green spaces, is home to major IT companies like Amdocs, John Deere, and Accenture, as well as essential amenities including hospitals, schools, and shopping centers. The city’s green spaces and sustainable design are a testament to Magar’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

Sustainability is a cornerstone of Magar’s vision. Under his guidance, Magarpatta City incorporates rainwater harvesting, solar energy, waste segregation and water conservation technologies. These initiatives not only reduce the city’s environmental footprint but also set a standard for eco-friendly urban development. Magar’s leadership extends to Magarpatta Clubs & Resorts Private Limited (MCRPL), established in 2003. Through MCRPL, he has launched successful brands like Deccan Harvest, Megameals, Cocoon Hotel, and Wah! Marathi. Each of these brands reflects his dedication to luxury, convenience, and cultural authenticity. Deccan Harvest offers gourmet dining experiences, while Megameals produces thousands of meals daily. Cocoon Hotel redefines luxury accommodations, and Wah! Marathi celebrates Maharashtra’s rich cultural heritage.

Educated at IHM Mumbai and the International Management Institute in Lucerne, Switzerland, Magar has a deep understanding of the hospitality industry. His commitment to sustainability and market insight continues to influence the industry. Beyond business, Magar is deeply invested in the well-being of his staff and community. He has introduced affordable medical facilities for employees and initiated educational programs for underprivileged staff. These initiatives provide opportunities for learning and growth, fostering a supportive work environment. Magar also encourages talent through interdepartmental competitions and monthly appreciation events.

To address the demand for skilled professionals in the hospitality sector, Magar established the Magarpatta College of Hospitality. The college offers a cutting-edge curriculum that combines classroom learning with hands-on experience. It also serves as a research hub, developing innovative techniques in partnership with industry leaders. Magar’s achievements have garnered widespread recognition. He was honored with the ‘Times Inspiring Men 2021’ award for his contributions to food technology and named ‘Femina Pune’s Most Powerful’ in 2018-2019. His work with Wah! Marathi earned him a feature in the Indian Restaurant Book as the best Maharashtrian restaurant.

Yogesh Magar’s holistic approach to business, combining social responsibility with commercial success, continues to inspire entrepreneurs and hospitality professionals around the world. His focus on quality, guest satisfaction, and community welfare positions MCRPL as a leader in the industry, setting new standards for excellence and sustainability.

In your opinion, how will travel trends change this year? 

In 2023 the biggest travel trend was revenge travel. People embracing their holidays to the fullest extent in a bid to reclaim the time and experiences that COVID-19 stole from them. For 2024, we’re seeing sustainable travel remaining a priority for travelers who want a more fulfilling and meaningful experience. Within tourism, there are several significant travel trends and developments. A few factors that I think will be trending are

1. Health and Safety Prioritization: With ongoing concerns about public health and safety, travelers are likely to prioritize destinations and accommodations that prioritize hygiene and sanitation.
2. Business Travel: The business travel landscape continues to evolve in response to changing circumstances and emerging trends. The booming Indian economy has accelerated innovation and transformation in the way business travel is conducted, paving the way for a more resilient and adaptable future
3. Flexible Booking Policies: Flexibility will remain a key consideration for travelers, with many seeking out accommodations and airlines that offer flexible booking policies, free cancellations, and travel insurance options. This allows travelers to adapt their plans in response to changing circumstances, such as travel restrictions or health concerns.
4. Sustainable and Responsible Travel: There’s growing awareness and interest in sustainable and responsible travel practices, with travelers seeking out eco-friendly accommodations, carbon-neutral transportation options, and destinations that prioritize environmental conservation and community engagement. This trend is likely to continue as travelers become more conscious of their impact on the planet.
5. Digital Transformation: The pandemic has accelerated the adoption of technology in the travel industry, with travelers relying more heavily on digital tools for trip planning, booking, and communication. This trend is expected to continue, with increased investment in technologies such as contactless check-in, mobile payment systems, virtual tours, and AI-powered travel assistance.
6. Workation and Bleisure Travel: The rise of remote work has blurred the lines between work and leisure, leading to a rise in workation (working remotely while traveling) and bleisure (combining business travel with leisure activities) trips. This trend is expected to continue as more companies embrace remote work policies and employees seek opportunities to combine work and travel experiences.
7. Cultural and Culinary Tourism: Travelers are increasingly seeking authentic cultural and culinary experiences, including immersive cooking classes, food tours, and visits to local markets and artisanal producers. Destinations with rich cultural heritage and diverse culinary traditions are likely to attract interest from travelers seeking these types of experiences.

While these trends offer insights into potential changes in travel behavior, it’s important to note that the travel industry is highly dynamic and subject to various external factors. Adaptability and responsiveness will be key for businesses and destinations looking to thrive in this evolving landscape.

 

 What was the best advice you have ever received so far? 

I am blessed that I am always been surrounded by the most knowledgeable company. I have received a lot of advice depending on the circumstances, goals, and challenges. However, here is a timeless piece of advice that many successful leaders find invaluable.

“Surround yourself with talented and passionate people, and empower them to do their best work.”

 What is your advice to aspiring hoteliers and restaurateurs given that you are successfully managing several hospitality businesses?

As someone who has observed and analyzed various industries, including hospitality, I can offer advice to aspiring hoteliers and restaurateurs based on common best practices. Understand the hospitality industry, including its trends, challenges, and opportunities. Research different segments within hospitality, such as accommodation, food and beverage, event management, and tourism, to identify where your interests and skills align. Before starting your own hospitality business, gain experience working in the industry. Create a comprehensive business plan that outlines your goals, target market, competitive analysis, marketing strategy, financial projections, and operational plan. A well-thought-out business plan will serve as a road-map for launching and growing your hospitality business.

Focus on quality as this will create a brand standard and bard value for your company. Surround yourself with a dedicated and skilled team who share your passion for hospitality. Hire employees who embody your brand values and provide them with ongoing training and support to ensure they deliver exceptional service to your guests.

Leverage technology to streamline operations, enhance guest experiences, and reach a wider audience. Invest in a user-friendly website, online booking and reservation systems, social media marketing, and guest feedback platforms to stay competitive in the digital age. Last but not least hospitality businesses require significant upfront investment and ongoing financial management. Manage Finance wisely as that will generate a positive return on investment and contribute to long-term growth.

 

What makes Cocoon stand out from other hospitality brands in Pune?

 Established in March 2009, Cocoon Hotel stands as a timeless icon of sophistication and elegance nestled within the vibrant Magarpatta City in Pune. Strategically located in the heart of the buzzing Cyber Hub, Cocoon Hotel offers an unparalleled experience for business travellers and discerning guests seeking a perfect blend of convenience and luxury, utmost care and attention. Being situated in the heart of Magarpatta City, Cocoon Hotel offers unparalleled convenience to guests. Its location within Cyber City provides easy access to corporate offices, making it an ideal choice for business travelers.

‘Walk to Work’ The proximity to corporate offices allows guests to enjoy the convenience of walking to work, saving time and hassle associated with commuting. This feature is particularly attractive to business travellers looking for efficiency and ease during their stay.

The hotel’s unique selling proposition lies in its spacious room sizes, providing guests with ample space to unwind and rejuvenate. Cocoon Hotel distinguishes itself as the only hotel in Pune offering exclusively suite accommodations. This emphasis on comfort and luxury sets Cocoon Hotel apart from competitors in Pune’s hospitality scene. The hotel’s close proximity to malls, dining options like the DC Food Hub, Deccan Harvest, Corporate Offices, schools, and residential areas adds to its allure. Guests have easy access to a variety of amenities and attractions, enhancing their overall experience.

Was being a part of and investing in the hospitality industry something you always dreamt of?  

Though my family business is real estate I’ve been captivated by the magic of hospitality since an early age. As I grew older, this fascination only deepened, leading me to pursue a formal education in hotel management to gain a deeper understanding of the industry’s intricacies and best practices. Investing in the hospitality industry and opening hotels and restaurants was a natural progression for me, driven by both my academic background and my genuine love for the field. It wasn’t just about building businesses; it was about fulfilling a lifelong dream of contributing to an industry that thrives on human connection and hospitality.

Every hotel and restaurant I’ve opened has been a labor of love, meticulously crafted to offer guests an unparalleled experience that reflects my passion for hospitality and my commitment to excellence. While the journey has been challenging at times, the satisfaction of seeing guests enjoy our offerings and the positive impact we’ve had on the communities we serve has made it all worthwhile. My journey into the industry has been guided by a deep-seated dream to immerse myself in an industry that celebrates hospitality, creativity, and innovation. And I’m grateful every day for the opportunity to turn that dream into reality.

Future plans? 

 MCRPL which plans to explore expansion opportunities in Tier 2 and 3 cities, is transitioning to franchise and management contracts. This move will enable the company to operate hotels under various brands, further enhancing its adaptability and growth prospects. We are also looking for the expansion of our Wah Marathi franchise in many folds making sure that authentic Maharashtrian food reaches all parts of India.

Our plans are indeed ambitious and strategically focused based on market research and analysis. We will carefully select strategic locations within each city, considering factors such as accessibility, visibility, foot traffic, and local preferences. We will focus on developing and refining our brands to ensure they resonate with the diverse demographics and preferences of each city tier. This may involve adapting our offerings, menus, and service styles to cater to local tastes while maintaining our brand identity and standards.

We will prioritize the integration of technology into our operations to enhance guest experiences, improve efficiency and drive innovation. We are committed to promoting sustainability and social responsibility in our operations and properties. We will invest in recruiting, training and retaining top talent to support our expansion and ensure consistent quality across all our properties. Providing ongoing training and development opportunities will empower our team members to deliver exceptional hospitality experiences. By focusing on these key aspects and executing our expansion plans with diligence and strategic foresight, we are confident in our ability to achieve success and establish ourselves as a leading hospitality group.

When are you happiest? 

As I am from the hospitality fraternity, I find myself happiest when I see our guests enjoying themselves, creating memories, and having exceptional experiences at our properties. Knowing that our team’s hard work and dedication have contributed to their joy and satisfaction brings me immense fulfillment and happiness. Additionally, seeing our employees thriving in their roles and being recognized for their efforts adds to my happiness, as it reflects a positive and cohesive work culture within our organization. Ultimately, creating moments of joy and satisfaction for both guests and employees alike is what brings me the greatest happiness in my role.

At work, which is your most challenging activity?

I thrive on challenges and approach each day with a positive attitude. While every aspect of my role presents its own unique set of challenges, one of the most demanding activities I encounter is fostering innovation and driving change within our organization.

Innovation is crucial for staying competitive in today’s dynamic business environment, but it requires navigating through uncertainty, resistance to change, and the inherent risks involved in trying new approaches. Encouraging our team to think outside the box, challenge the status quo, and embrace new ideas can be a daunting task, especially in a large organization with established processes and traditions.

Despite its challenges, I approach this aspect of my work with enthusiasm and determination. I believe that by embracing innovation and driving positive change, we can unlock new opportunities, improve our competitiveness, and ultimately achieve our long-term goals.

What is the USP of Wah ! Marathi ? 

Wah! Marathi, is your ultimate destination for an unforgettable culinary journey. Nestled in the heart of Magarpatta City – Seasons Mall, our restaurant is a tribute to the diverse and mouth-watering cuisine that Maharashtra has to offer. At Wah! Marathi, we take pride in presenting the true essence of Maharashtrian cuisine. From the fiery spices to the subtle aromas, every dish on our menu reflects the state’s rich culinary heritage. Our USP is authentic Maharashtrian cuisine offering a diverse range of dishes from all the main regions of Maharashtra including Khandesh, Vidharba, Pune, Marathwada, and Konkan. This dedication to authenticity allows patrons to experience the rich and varied flavours of traditional Maharashtrian fare.

The restaurant ambiance is another UPS.It is designed to evoke a homely atmosphere, featuring elements such as red brickwork, wooden walls, and authentic artifacts. The other UPSs are our prime location in a Vibrant Mall, with food quality, and impeccable service. In addition to its main restaurant, Wah! Marathi also operates a Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) attached to the main establishment and the food court within the mall. This setup allows patrons to enjoy authentic food combos and signature dishes like the renowned Wah! Wada Pav convenient, whether dining in or on the go. Overall, Wah! Marathi’s USP lies in its commitment to providing an authentic Maharashtrian dining experience, coupled with a prime location, homely ambiance, emphasis on food quality, and convenient accessibility through its QSR presence in the mall.

 

What was the thought process behind coming up with a hospitality institute? 

The thought process behind establishing a hospitality institute typically involves several key considerations and motivations. The decision to establish a hospitality institute often stems from recognizing the growing demand for skilled professionals in the hospitality industry. I felt a huge gap in the demand and supply of trained resources in hospitality.

MCHF has modern and an updated infrastructure for learning. We have more than 40,000 sq.ft of facility that enables our students to experience the classroom as well as on-field training. It’s the right place for creating career pathways and fostering innovation. Institutes of hospitality often serve as hubs for innovation within the industry. They may conduct research, develop new techniques or technologies, and collaborate with industry partners to drive innovation and improve practices within hospitality.

Overall, the thought process behind creating a hospitality institute involves a combination of identifying industry needs, fostering skill development, ensuring quality education, and contributing to both individual career advancement and broader economic development goals.