HRAWI advises members on responsible festive season practices

Supports Maharashtra Government’s initiative for allowing hotels & restaurants to operate till 5 am for Christmas & New year’s eve

The Hotel And Restaurant Association (Western India) – HRAWI has issued a comprehensive advisory for its members to ensure smooth and lawful operations during the upcoming festive season. The guidelines, aimed at maintaining safety, compliance and guest satisfaction, encompass specifics including operational timings, promoting responsible bar tending and drinking, staff contribution transparency and adherence to noise and music regulations.

Members are reminded to comply with locally permitted hours and secure necessary licenses for special events; strict age restrictions for alcohol consumption through display of appropriate signage and initiatives like valet and ride-hailing services to deter drink-and-drive incidents. The advisory also instructs F&B establishments to adhere to permissible decibel levels and enforce music cut-off times and to obtain permissions for live events in advance.

HRAWI thanks the Maharashtra Government for allowing hotel and restaurant establishments in the State to operate till 5 am on the 24th, 25th and 31st of December 2024.

“Our goal is to ensure a festive season that is enjoyable for patrons while being compliant with local laws. Adhering to these guidelines will promote goodwill and maintain the integrity of the hospitality industry. Collaboration with local authorities is essential to preventing incidents and promoting safety during the Christmas & New Year’s Eve celebrations. We urge our members to proactively support initiatives like responsible bar tending and drinking including the right to refusal; provision of valet services and, following music and noise regulations,” says Pradeep Shetty, spokesperson, HRAWI.

HRAWI has further advised members to ensure service charges to be capped at 10 per cent, transparently communicated and fairly distributed among staff. The measure aims to safeguard customer trust and prevent any disputes. The advisory also highlights guest comfort and safety during winter, suggesting heating arrangements, staff training on winter-specific requirements and proactive safety measures.

“Transparency in service charges and a focus on guest comfort will enhance trust and loyalty among patrons. We are committed to ensuring a seamless festive period for the hospitality industry, balancing operational excellence with legal and ethical compliance. We urge all members to cooperate fully with local authorities and adhere to the guidelines. Let’s work together to ensure a safe, comfortable and enjoyable winter season for all patrons. For further assistance, members are encouraged to contact the Association,” concludes Chetan Mehta, Vice President, HRAWI.