In a strategic leadership realignment, Zo World, the parent company of popular hostel chain Zostel, has elevated long-time executive Aviral Gupta to the role of Chief Executive Officer (CEO). This move comes as co-founder and outgoing CEO Dharamveer Singh Chouhan transitions into the position of Chairman, aiming to focus on the broader strategic vision and long-term goals of the company.
The leadership reshuffle is expected to strengthen Zo World’s positioning in the Indian and international travel and hospitality sector, as it continues to expand beyond just being a hostel brand to becoming a youth-centric lifestyle and cultural platform.
A Decade-Long Journey: From Project Manager to CEO
Aviral Gupta has been an integral part of the Zo World and Zostel journey since 2014, when he joined the company as a Project Manager. Over the last decade, Gupta steadily climbed the ranks, taking on key leadership roles including Chief Strategy Officer and Head of Human Resources. His deep understanding of hostel operations, strategy, and technology makes him well-suited to lead the company into its next phase of growth.
Speaking about his new role, Gupta said, “We are building Zo not just as a travel brand, but as a lifestyle and cultural identity for the next generation.” His vision aligns with the brand’s evolution from a budget hostel chain to a broader platform that caters to the aspirations of modern travelers and digital nomads.
Zo World’s Global and Lifestyle Ambitions
Zo World, under the Zostel brand, has been a trailblazer in India’s backpacker and hostel space, targeting millennials and Gen Z travelers. With a unique blend of affordable accommodation, community-driven experiences, and vibrant design, Zostel has built a strong brand identity among young domestic and international tourists.
The company is now eyeing global expansion and a move into the lifestyle and cultural space, signaling a shift in focus from just being a hospitality provider to becoming a youth lifestyle brand. Aviral Gupta’s leadership is expected to drive this transformation, with a renewed focus on technology, branding, and global partnerships.
Dharamveer Singh Chouhan: From CEO to Chairman
Co-founder Dharamveer Singh Chouhan, who has been associated with Zo World since its inception in 2013, served as CEO for more than four years. As per his LinkedIn profile, Chouhan’s leadership played a crucial role in shaping the Zostel brand and steering it through various phases of growth.
Now, as Chairman, Chouhan will guide the company’s long-term strategy and provide mentorship to the executive leadership. His move to a more strategic role reflects a maturing organization aiming to consolidate its brand vision while exploring new avenues of growth.
A New Chapter for Zo World
This leadership change marks a significant moment in Zo World’s journey. With Aviral Gupta at the helm and Dharamveer Singh Chouhan focusing on vision and strategy, the company is poised to redefine the next-generation travel and lifestyle experience.
As Zo World continues to innovate and scale, all eyes will be on how this leadership transition shapes the future of one of India’s most recognizable youth hospitality brands.
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