The Taj Group of Hotels

The Taj Group is delighted to introduce its two newly rebranded London hotels - St. James' Court, A Taj Hotel and Taj 51 Buckingham Gate Suites and Residences. The hotels will now be promoted within the Taj Group's portfolio of luxury hotels, resorts and palaces, and the Taj Group has sole ownership and management, as well as operational and marketing control of both properties.

Since opening its doors in 1902, St. James' Court has regularly hosted royalty and Heads of State. Bordered by Buckingham Palace and Green Park in the heart of Westminster, the hotel in centrally located in London. Rich in history and heritage, the hotel has introduced the quintessential Taj service through new offerings, amenities and service enhancements, combined with the famed Taj hospitality.

At St. James' Court, A Taj Hotel, some of the enhanced and differentiated experiences include in-room check in, signature welcome and signature fragrances. Guests will also have access to an extensive fleet of exclusive vintage and classic vehicles, including the Queen Mother's favorite Jaguar DS420 Daimler limousine 'Grand Princess' and Lord Mountbatten's vintage Daimler 'Silver Baroness'. Other experiences include unique dining experiences like the 24 Karat Gold Afternoon Tea and a customized Kids @ Taj program.

Meanwhile, Taj 51 Buckingham Gate Suites and Residences is further enhancing its luxury offering through bespoke experiences such as the Taj Royal Attache butler service, optional Jaguar airport transfers and exclusive horse and carriage rides. In addition to the two signature suites - the world's first Jaguar Suite and the uniquely designed Cinema Suite - the hotel is remodeling other suites. In 2014, it will welcome a new lobby and reception lounge, a new restaurant, tea and library lounges and an exclusive private dining area.

Guests at both of the hotels will benefit from complimentary WiFi, superlative Clefs d'Or (Golden Keys) Concierge service, tailored treatments at the Wellness Centre and a host of on-site dining options, including Michelin-star Quilon.

Commenting on the launch, Raymond Bickson, MD and CEO of the Taj Group, said: "This important re-branding comes at an exciting time for the increasing strategic links between India and the UK. We are delighted to have the opportunity to restore these iconic hotels that have more than a century of heritage."

Deepa Harris, Senior VP Global Sales & Marketing of the Taj Group added: "The success of our London hotels provided the impetus to consolidate our brand presence in the UK, being an important source market for Taj. St. James' Court, A Taj Hotel is positioned as an English classic, while Taj 51 Buckingham Gate Suites and Residences will offer authentic luxury experiences, reflecting the universally acclaimed warmth and personalized service that the Taj is celebrated for."

The developments at the Taj Group in London are particularly significant in the context of the importance and legacy of the Tata Group in the UK. The Tata Group has had a strategic presence in Europe and the UK for more than a century and the UK is Tata's leading international market. The Tata Group is UK's largest manufacturing sector employer and one of its largest foreign investors. This initiative by the Taj Group adds to the portfolio of iconic brands in the UK like Jaguar, Land Rover, Tata Steel Europe (formerly Corus Group) and Tetley Tea with Taj, one of Asia's largest and finest hospitality brands, renowned for its heritage, legacy, and warm service.

To celebrate the launch, St. James' Court, A Taj Hotel is launching a photo competition on its Facebook page, where there is a selection of prizes to be won. Visit facebook.com/sjctaj for more information.

About The Indian Hotels Company Limited

The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) and its subsidiaries bring together a group of brands and businesses that offer a fusion of warm Indian hospitality and world-class service. These include Taj – the iconic brand for the most discerning travellers and ranked as India's Strongest Brand 2023 as per Brand Finance; SeleQtions, a named collection of hotels; Vivanta, sophisticated upscale hotels; and Ginger, which is revolutionising the lean luxe segment.

Incorporated by the founder of the Tata Group, Jamsetji Tata, the Company opened its first hotel - The Taj Mahal Palace, in Bombay in 1903. IHCL has a portfolio of 300+ hotels including 90 under development globally across 4 continents, 13 countries and in over 100 locations. The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) is India's largest hospitality company by market capitalization. It is listed on the BSE and NSE.

Please visit: www.ihcltata.com; www.tajhotels.com;www.seleqtionshotels.com; www.vivantahotels.com; www.gingerhotels.com