In a strategic move ahead of a potential IPO and to reflect its evolution beyond just a hotel chain, Oyo’s founder, Ritesh Agarwal, has announced plans to rebrand the parent company, currently known as Oravel Stays. Agarwal has taken to social media, inviting the public to contribute suggestions for a new corporate name.
Clarifying that this rebranding effort is for the overarching corporate entity and not the consumer-facing “Oyo Hotels” brand, Agarwal stated, “We’re renaming the corporate brand behind it all. Not the hotel chain, not a consumer product — but the parent company powering a global ecosystem of urban innovation and modern living. We believe it’s time the world had a new kind of global brand — born in India, but built for the world.”
Agarwal has specified that the ideal name should be a bold, one-word term with a global feel, not tied to a specific culture or language. It should also be tech-forward, sharp yet human and memorable, and broad enough to encompass growth beyond the hospitality sector, ideally with an available “.com” domain.
Sources suggest that the new name chosen through this exercise might also be considered for a separate app that Oyo is reportedly developing for its premium and mid-to-premium company-serviced hotels, a segment experiencing significant growth globally.
To incentivize participation, Agarwal has offered a prize of ₹3 lakh to the individual who suggests the winning name, along with an opportunity to meet him.
This rebranding initiative comes as Oyo reportedly prepares for a potential IPO, with discussions underway with investment banks. The company has also shown improved financial performance, reporting an adjusted EBITDA of ₹1,132 crore in FY25.
Summary:-
- Oyo’s founder, Ritesh Agarwal, is seeking public suggestions for a new name for the parent company, Oravel Stays, as part of a rebranding effort.
- The new name should be a bold, one-word term with a global, tech-forward, and memorable feel, suitable for a company evolving beyond hospitality.
- The chosen name might also be used for a new premium hotels app that Oyo is planning to launch.
- A prize of ₹3 lakh and a meeting with Ritesh Agarwal is being offered for the winning suggestion.