Building an Empire: How The Gupta Group is Transforming Canadian Hospitality

From a modest beginning in 1971 with just $108, Dr. Steve Gupta founded The Gupta Group, a hospitality giant known for its innovation and commitment to exceptional guest experiences. Today, the Markham-based company boasts 25 hotels across Ontario and Quebec, positioning itself as a key player in the hospitality industry. Led by Ambassadress Reetu Gupta, the company continues to evolve, adapting to post-pandemic guest expectations by offering seamless, tech-driven services and immersive experiences that go beyond just a stay.

Over the past five decades, The Gupta Group has undergone a remarkable transformation, driven by the vision of its founder, Dr. Steve Gupta, and now by the leadership of Reetu Gupta. Starting from humble beginnings, the company has established itself as an award-winning, diversified hospitality and real estate firm known for its innovative guest experiences and sustainable operations.

A Dynamic Portfolio and the Guest Experience Evolution

The Gupta Group currently manages 25 hotels in Ontario and Quebec, working closely with top-tier brands such as Hilton and Marriott. According to Reetu Gupta, the hospitality landscape has shifted significantly post-pandemic, with guest demands becoming more focused on seamless service and meaningful experiences. In response, the company has introduced technologies like digital keys and online check-ins, enabling a quicker and more efficient stay. Beyond these conveniences, The Gupta Group places a strong emphasis on crafting immersive experiences, offering a range of activations that enhance guests’ overall journey within their hotels.

A New Era in Hospitality: Canopy by Hilton and Revery Toronto

In 2023, The Gupta Group launched the 184-room Canopy by Hilton Toronto Yorkville, marking the brand’s debut in Canada. Designed by the renowned Studio Munge, the hotel boasts an artistic yet nature-inspired aesthetic. With its warm oak features, copper accents, and collection of local art, the Canopy Central lobby serves as a communal space where nature and city life harmoniously blend. Guests can enjoy modern amenities like an indoor pool, fitness center, and upscale dining at Día and Virtu Café & Provisions, under the culinary direction of executive chef Justin Raponi.

The hotel’s impact was immediate—Canopy by Hilton Toronto Yorkville won Hilton’s Lifestyle of the Year Award for North America in its inaugural year, signaling the success of Gupta’s vision to offer more than just accommodation, but a holistic guest experience.

Following this achievement, The Gupta Group expanded further with the launch of the 224-room Revery Toronto Downtown, Curio Collection by Hilton. The Revery takes inspiration from the worlds of theatre and film, creating a unique space that melds cinematic artistry with modern luxury. Guests are welcomed into the Muse Lobby Bar, a stylish concession stand-inspired venue offering bespoke cocktails and coffee, while the check-in experience is transformed with Box Office pods featuring black-and-white movie scenes of Toronto’s past. The hotel rooms are equally theatrical, with curved mirrors and mood lighting designed to evoke the glamour of a vintage dressing room.

Future Expansion: The Distillery District Project

Looking ahead, The Gupta Group’s most anticipated project is in Toronto’s historic Distillery District. This ambitious development at 60 Mill Street will feature a 31-storey, 392-room hotel designed by IBI Group, with plans to integrate the Rack House D building into the project—a first for the neighborhood. The hotel will offer a rich blend of old-world charm and modern luxury, with amenities including a below-ground speakeasy, a rooftop bar and lounge, a 31st-floor restaurant, a spa, gym, and event spaces. The restoration of Rack House D will pay homage to the area’s industrial roots while elevating the Distillery District’s profile as a premier destination for both locals and visitors.

A Legacy of Innovation and Success

Reflecting on the company’s achievements and future aspirations, Reetu Gupta offers simple yet profound advice: “Success, for me, is happiness. It means following your heart and passion.” She encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to trust their instincts and follow their inner voice, believing that success naturally follows those who pursue their true calling. Under her leadership, The Gupta Group continues to build on its legacy while adapting to the ever-changing demands of the hospitality industry.

As the company expands its reach, its commitment to offering unique, guest-centric experiences remains at the heart of its operations. With the ongoing development of high-profile projects and a strong emphasis on sustainability and technological innovation, The Gupta Group is well-positioned to shape the future of hospitality for generations to come.

“We’re growing and diversifying,” says Gupta. “The goal is for this company to be multi-generational, and I believe we are laying the foundation for a legacy that will last.”