From Shawl Business to Luxury Resort Ankush Kakkar’s Inspirational Journey

Ankush Kakkar’s journey from helping his father run a woollen shawl business to building a luxurious resort in Himachal Pradesh is a tale of resilience, determination, and entrepreneurial spirit. At the age of 13, he took on the responsibility of assisting his family due to unstable income, balancing his studies with the demands of the shawl business.

Early Struggles and Entrepreneurial Vision:

Ankush’s early years were marked by financial challenges, but his ambition to create a stable source of income for his family led to the inception of his entrepreneurial journey. In 2000, he and his father decided to start a small dhaba near Ludhiana bus stand, catering to bus and truck drivers. This venture provided a glimmer of hope, allowing them to expand and eventually purchase a 20-room hotel within a few years.

Scaling New Heights:

Ankush’s relentless pursuit of growth led him to acquire another hotel in Ludhiana in 2006. However, his entrepreneurial spirit didn’t stop there. In 2020, he achieved a remarkable milestone by opening Treeoise, a sprawling 33,000 square yards resort located in Baddi, Himachal Pradesh. This journey from a modest dhaba to a premium resort is a testament to his unwavering determination.

The Birth of Treeoise:

Treeoise Resort, conceived in 2019 and inaugurated on February 28, 2020, represents Ankush’s dedication to offering a unique and unforgettable hospitality experience. With an investment of approximately Rs 3 crore, funded from his years of savings and income generated from his Ludhiana-based hotels, Treeoise boasts 20 well-appointed rooms, four banquet halls, four cottages, a restaurant, a resto-bar, a café, a gym, a play zone, and an outdoor seating area.

Situated atop a hill in the healthcare industrial area of Baddi, Treeoise competes with established names like Lemon Tree and Sarovar Portico. The resort’s picturesque location and top-notch amenities make it a standout destination.

Navigating the Pandemic Storm:

The COVID-19 pandemic posed significant challenges for the hospitality industry. With the sudden lockdowns and travel restrictions, Ankush had to adapt swiftly to protect his business. Treeoise’s staff members were provided essentials and accommodations on-site during the lockdown.

To counter the adverse effects of the pandemic, Ankush turned Treeoise into a quarantine facility in collaboration with a nearby hospital. As restrictions eased, the resort gradually resumed operations.

A Glimpse into Success:

Despite the pandemic’s setbacks, Treeoise Resort began to thrive. As of March 2021, it reported sales of Rs 1.2 crore and a net profit of Rs 13.44 lakh. The resort has also gained popularity in the entertainment industry, becoming a sought-after location for shooting Punjabi music videos.

Ankush’s vision for the future includes expanding Treeoise Resort with the addition of a spa and a swimming pool. He also plans to open a shawl factory next year, scaling his father’s traditional shawl business.

In Ankush Kakkar’s entrepreneurial journey, one can find inspiration and a testament to the idea that nurturing small seeds of opportunity can lead to remarkable growth. His transformation from a young boy helping with a struggling family business to the owner of a thriving luxury resort exemplifies the power of determination and perseverance.