Detailed Narrative
Q3 FY26 Performance Highlights
Samhi Hotels reported a robust Q3 FY26, with total income growing 16% year-on-year to INR 342 crores. Same-store RevPAR increased by 13% year-on-year to INR 5,643, driven by a 15.9% year-on-year ADR growth, despite a slight 1.6 percentage point drop in occupancy to 73%. Consolidated EBITDA rose 13.2% year-on-year to INR 126 crores, with underlying EBITDA growth at a stronger 19% year-on-year. PAT attributable to SAMHI shareholders stood at INR 39.6 crores for the quarter.
GST Impact and Margin Management
The company's EBITDA margins moderated to 36.9% from 37.9% in the prior year, primarily due to changes in GST regulations. Management indicated a short-term impact of 150-200 basis points on margins, particularly affecting the mid-scale portfolio. However, they anticipate that the GST reduction will make hotels more affordable, leading to greater sales volumes and offsetting the impact in the long term. A recovery in margins is expected from February onwards, driven by strong revenue growth.
Strategic Growth Initiatives and Pipeline
Samhi Hotels currently operates 4,900 rooms and has an additional 1,900 rooms under development or rebranding, resulting in 1,450 net room additions. Key projects, including the 170-room W Hyderabad and the 220-room Westin block in Whitefield Bangalore, are progressing as planned. These developments are strategically aimed at shifting the revenue mix towards upscale and upper upscale segments, increasing their contribution from the current 42% to 60% upon completion, thereby enhancing long-term earnings quality.
Debt and Cash Flow Position
As of December 31, 2025, Samhi Hotels' net debt was INR 1,450 crores, maintaining a stable net debt-to-EBITDA ratio of 3x. The minor increase in net debt during the quarter was attributed to extension payments for the Navi Mumbai project. Management reaffirmed its commitment to the earlier guided INR 300 crores in debt reduction by 2030. The company's trailing 12-month free cash flow of INR 300 crores is projected to increase to INR 350-400 crores plus in the next 12 months, supported by earnings growth and stable interest costs.
Market Demand and Pricing Power
Management highlighted strong underlying market demand, fueled by India's economic growth and robust office absorption across core markets. They emphasized the company's significant pricing power, with hotels able to dynamically reprice rooms multiple times a day, especially during periods of high demand. This dynamic pricing strategy has allowed for strong revenue growth even in the mid-scale segment, demonstrating reduced dependence on fixed RFP prices and effective yield management.
Long-Term Outlook and Targets
Samhi Hotels is confident in achieving its long-term target of circa INR 3,000 crores in revenue by 2030. This growth is expected to be driven by a 9-11% CAGR in same-store revenue and incremental contributions from new upscale and upper upscale inventory. The company also projects total EBITDA accumulation of INR 3,000-3,500 crores over the next 4-5 years. Growth capex for new projects is primarily funded through internal accruals and capital-efficient variable leases, minimizing pressure on the balance sheet.