Restaurant India News: HRAWI Re-Elects Jimmy Shaw as President, Sets Agenda on GST and Hospitality Growth

The Hotel and Restaurant Association of Western India (HRAWI) has re-elected Jimmy Shaw, Managing Director of The Waterfront Shaw, Lavasa, as its President at the association’s 75th Annual General Meeting held on September 17, 2025.

The leadership team remains largely unchanged, with Nirav Gandhi continuing as Senior Vice President, Chetan Mehta as Vice President, and Pradeep Shetty as Honorary Secretary. Gurbir Singh Bedi has taken charge as Joint Honorary Secretary, while Paramjit Singh Ghai has been appointed as Honorary Treasurer.

Over the past year, under Shaw’s leadership, HRAWI has been active on several critical issues for the hospitality sector. These included GST rationalisation, reforms in excise duty, food safety measures, and industry-focused initiatives such as the ‘Empowering Hospitality’ Conclave & Awards.

“Being re-elected President during our 75th year is both an honour and a responsibility. Over the last year, we have built strong momentum on issues critical to the hospitality industry ranging from GST reforms to various processes under the Ease of Doing Business. I am grateful to our members and committee for their trust and support. Our collective achievements prove that when we speak with one voice, we can influence meaningful change,” said Shaw.

Looking forward, HRAWI has outlined its focus areas for the coming year. These include technology adoption, sustainability, and inclusivity, alongside preparation for the 20th Regional Convention in October 2025 at The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai. The Platinum Jubilee edition of the convention will spotlight hospitality’s role in “Viksit Maharashtra 2047” and its alignment with the national mission of “Viksit Bharat 2047.”

“As we look to the future, the Association will continue to work tirelessly to secure rationalised GST, ease regulatory bottlenecks, promote inclusivity and sustainability, and drive innovation. We will also work closely with State and Central Governments to streamline regulations and boost tourism competitiveness. The upcoming 20th Regional Convention will be a platform to showcase our industry’s resilience, chart our vision for Viksit Maharashtra 2047 and cement our role as the leading voice of hospitality in Western India,” concluded Shaw.