India’s food and beverage (F&B) industry, a key employer of
unorganized labor, is facing an urgent crisis. In his latest book, India’s
F&B on Ventilator, Archit Singhal delivers a powerful analysis of the
industry’s sluggish growth, deep-seated structural inefficiencies, and the need
for immediate reform. Drawing from over a decade of experience, Singhal
presents an unfiltered perspective on the sector's challenges and provides
actionable solutions for building a more sustainable and respected industry.
Despite its vast potential, the hospitality sector remains one of the
most demanding yet underpaid industries. Workers face long hours, stagnant
wages, and rising financial pressures due to inflation. India’s F&B
on Ventilator highlights the glaring wealth disparity within the
industry, where only a select few enjoy financial success while the majority
struggle to survive. This book is both a wake-up call and a blueprint for
change, urging stakeholders to take responsibility and drive meaningful
reforms.
A Much-Needed Examination of a Neglected Industry
Singhal, an avid reader and seasoned industry professional, noticed a
gap in literature comprehensively addressing India’s F&B sector’s current
state. Motivated by this void, he documented his experiences and insights to
create a book that acts as both an industry reality check and a call to action.
The book examines several pressing issues, including:
- The slow salary growth and widening wealth gap
within the industry.
- The outdated curricula and insufficient
infrastructure in hotel management colleges.
- The struggles faced by IHM college graduates
in meeting industry demands.
- The migration of unskilled labor from smaller
towns to urban centers, only to be overworked and underpaid.
With India’s growing disposable income and an evolving food culture, the
hospitality sector is expanding rapidly. However, a lack of structured
training, education, and professional development continues to hinder
progress. India’s F&B on Ventilator sheds light on the
struggles of young professionals entering the field, many of whom quickly
become disillusioned by the limited opportunities for career growth and
recognition.
A Call for Leadership and Reform
One of the book’s most critical insights is the lack of strong
leadership in the F&B sector. Many industry players are focused on
short-term survival rather than long-term innovation, preventing the necessary
collective efforts toward progress. Singhal urges a shift in perspective,
advocating for a unified and structured approach to overcoming longstanding
challenges.
Divided into 15 chapters, India’s F&B on Ventilator methodically
explores industry gaps while providing in-depth analyses and practical
solutions. These insights serve as a valuable resource for industry
professionals, policymakers, and business leaders looking to create a more
prosperous future.
A Reality Check for Industry Stakeholders
This book is an essential read not only for aspiring professionals but
also for anyone currently involved in the F&B industry. By exposing the
sector’s major flaws, Singhal calls upon business owners, corporate leaders,
educators, and policymakers to take action and drive meaningful change.
Key takeaways from the book include:
- The urgent need for fair wages and improved
working conditions.
- The importance of modernized education and
training programs.
- The role of government policies in fostering
industry growth.
- The mental and physical toll of the demanding
work environment.
A Tribute to Industry Warriors
At its core, India’s F&B on Ventilator is a tribute
to the countless individuals who dedicate their lives to the hospitality
sector. Despite their resilience, discipline, and hard work, hospitality
professionals often go unrecognized. Singhal acknowledges their contributions
and urges them to be part of the change that will benefit the industry as a
whole.
Availability and Ordering Information
India’s
F&B on Ventilator is now available for purchase at https://architasinghal.com/home/ and on Amazon and Flipkart in
hardcover, paperback, and e-book formats.
About the Author
Archit Singhal’s career trajectory spans from finance to hospitality,
bridging two dynamic industries. With a B.Com (Hons), an MBA in Finance and
Business Management from IIM Lucknow, and a CFA charter, he has successfully
combined financial expertise with hospitality innovation. Singhal is the
visionary behind over 10 hospitality brands, including Cocktail Week, Beer
Week, Elixir Bar Solutions, To the Teaz, Chai Lelo, and the India Bartender’s
Guild.
Awarded the 2021 Economic Times Inspiring Leaders Award for
North India, Singhal is a prominent advocate for industry transformation. As
the President of India’s Bartender’s Guild, he played a crucial role in
securing India’s membership in the International Bartender Association. His
latest initiative, the IBG Bar Academy, provides training and mentorship to
aspiring bartenders from underprivileged backgrounds, elevating bartending to a
respected profession with standardized certification programs and fair pay.
Interview and Podcast Inquiries
Archit
Singhal is available for interviews and podcasts to discuss the challenges and
reforms outlined in India’s F&B on Ventilator. His expertise in
finance and hospitality, along with his commitment to industry improvement,
makes him an authoritative voice in F&B sector reform. To book Archit for
an interview, please reach out via mail architsinghal86@gmail.com .