In a thrilling development for Nagpur’s tech industry, HotelKey, a homegrown startup with global acclaim, has signed a groundbreaking partnership with OYO, the hospitality giant that needs no introduction. The collaboration was announced at a prestigious event attended by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, who enthusiastically encouraged OYO’s founder, Ritesh Agarwal, to expand operations into scenic locations near Nagpur, such as Ambhora and Tadoba. Agarwal, ever the visionary, expressed keen interest in making this suggestion a reality, envisioning new OYO properties along India’s burgeoning highway networks.
HotelKey’s story is nothing short of extraordinary. Starting humbly a decade ago in a small 400 sq. ft. office in Shankar Nagar, Nagpur, the company has scaled unimaginable heights, now offering ERP solutions to over 18,000 hotels globally and managing an impressive 1.25 million rooms. While its main operations are anchored in Nagpur’s IT Park, HotelKey’s headquarters in the United States and offices spanning multiple continents highlight its meteoric rise on the global stage.
Ritesh Agarwal didn’t hold back on the impressive numbers either. OYO recorded a profit of ₹270 crore last year, with an ambitious target of ₹500 crore for this year. He also hinted at the possibility of a much-anticipated IPO in 2025, which has already begun to stir excitement among investors. Meanwhile, Agarwal assured stakeholders of OYO’s unwavering commitment to safety and quality, addressing issues of brand misuse and emphasizing strict KYC protocols for all properties.
The event wasn’t all business, though. Agarwal took a refreshing stance on the much-debated topic of work-life balance, firmly opposing the idea of a 90-hour work week and advocating for employees to prioritize family time alongside their professional pursuits. It’s a message that resonated deeply, highlighting a more human side of corporate leadership.
This partnership isn’t just a win for HotelKey and OYO—it’s a shining moment for Nagpur. It places the city firmly on the map as a burgeoning hub for tech innovation, with companies like HotelKey leading the charge. For OYO, this collaboration means infusing their hospitality expertise with cutting-edge technology, paving the way for a future that’s as innovative as it is ambitious.
As HotelKey and OYO embark on this exciting journey, the world will undoubtedly watch with anticipation. What started as a humble dream in Nagpur is now poised to redefine hospitality technology on a global scale. This partnership is a testament to what happens when vision meets opportunity—and it’s only the beginning.