Tatas hit back at OEH, seek apology

The Tatas seek an apology from Orient-Express Hotels for its outrageous comments about Taj Hotels, reports Gaurav Choudhury.

The Tatas have sought a “formal apology” from Orient-Express Hotels (OEH) for its outrageous comments about Indian Hotels, popularly known as the Taj Hotels.

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OEH chief executive Paul White had written to Indian Hotels vice-chairman RK Krishna Kumar, snubbing the Tatas’ bid for the global super-luxury chain. A tie-up with the “predominantly Indian” Taj would erode OEH’s brand image, White had said.

In his response, Krishna Kumar said: “The purpose of this letter is not to pursue a dialogue directly with you but instead to set the record straight on our intentions in approaching your company,” and went on to present a point-by-point rebuttal of White’s charges.

“We ask that OEH publish a formal apology to Taj Hotels. Taj Hotels is a proud Indian company, and it will persevere with its global expansion strategy. Indian companies will continue to play a meaningful role in... global economic integration and... will take their rightful place in the international arena,” Krishna Kumar said.