Spread over 2’787m2 (30’000 square feet) the GVK Lounge showcases the richness of Indian design and hospitality, setting new global standards for first and business class passengers.
MUMBAI – GVK Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport’s (CSIA) Terminal T2 opened its all new, luxury lounge for first and business class travelers. The ‘GVK Lounge’ is the result of close cooperation between CSIA and the hospitality partnership of gategroup’s lounge service brand, Performa, with Travel Food Services. The inauguration was presided over by Dr. GVK Reddy, Founder, Chairman and Managing Director, GVK. The premium lounge is housed in T2, levels 3 and 4, and is capable of hosting up to 440 guests.
GVK Lounge will provide a luxury lounge experience to first and business class customers of all airlines operating at CSIA T2, and will be reimbursed directly by the airlines based on the number of passenger visits. The GVK Lounge offers guests the latest technologies and amenities in the form of concierge services, a smoking lounge and premium food & beverage services, including a live tandoori kitchen and sports bar. A full-service spa, shower area and relaxation zone, as well as a library and a business center complete the traveler’s comfort experience. The visual impressions and styles are consistent with the overall ambience and architecture of the new T2 terminal.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. GVK Reddy said, “At GVK CSIA, it has been our continuous endeavor to enhance traveler delight, and the new GVK Lounge at T2 will successfully take this effort to new heights. The lounge reflects a kaleidoscopic vision of the dreams of India and the pulse of Mumbai, and is themed to give travelers a blend of world class local ambiences at the airport. We are confident that travelers will relish the service experience offered in the GVK Lounge. Airlines can now offer a unique and luxurious lounge experience to their discerning passengers and the “pay per use” concept means no upfront investments and lower operating costs for airlines.”
CSIA awarded the lounge concession to a partnership between Performa, a gategroup company and a worldwide leader in designing, managing and servicing of airport lounges, and Travel Food Services (TFS), the leading food and beverage operator in the Indian travel sector. Beat Ehlers, Managing Director, Performa expressed his satisfaction with the successful partnership, “We are elated to be working together with our partners GVK and TFS. Together we have created an unrivalled customer service experience for premium travelers. Unique service, culinary excellence and an exceptional lounge concept deliver nothing but the best experience. Professional, personal interaction is at the heart of our concept, placing extra emphasis on a solid understanding of the guest mindset and a mastery of the product mix.”
Commenting on the occasion, Mr. Sunil Kapur, Chairman, TFS said, “We have worked closely with the team at GVK CSIA to embody the vision of the airport into our lounge experience for travelers, and are confident our partnership with Performa will create a true benchmark. Airlines flying from the airport will be able to offer their premium passengers an unmatched experience that will provide an inestimable value to their patrons. On entering the lounge, passengers will glimpse a combination of design and warmth of the highest international standard and which epitomizes the authentic character of Mumbai.”
Designed by India’s celebrated fashion designer Sandeep Khosla and Mumbai’s highly acclaimed architect Alfaz Miller, ABM, GVK Lounge is based on a concept by Softroom Architects, UK. A strategic lighting display draws inspiration from a rich palette of Indian light, filtered through the country’s nature, architectural environments and celebrations. Selective palettes of amber, red and gold, with elements suggestive of dusk and water gardens, have been interwoven to lend a cultural authenticity to the entire lounge space.
The lounge features three different categories – First Class, Premium Class and Business Class. Each segment will host its guests according to their expectations and will highlight personalized service, fresh meals, snacks and beverages, and an abundance of individual space. Highly trained concierge staff, each with a professional background in the hospitality industry, will ensure exceptional service for all passengers.
On this occasion, Sanjay Reddy, Managing Director of Mumbai International Airport said, “The GVK Lounge is another effort by GVK to set new global benchmarks in the airport business. The concept of the common luxury lounge, the design and the aesthetics all set new standards in airport lounges for the world. We hope the premium passengers will enjoy this experience”.
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