In the competitive world of hospitality, Shubham Pille, founder of Stay Ukiyo, has demonstrated that success lies in putting the customer first. Starting at the age of 26 with ₹50 lakh, Shubham built a platform that guarantees verified, comfortable, and personalized stays, generating a GMV of ₹18 crores in just three years.
The idea was born during the COVID-19 pandemic when travelers’ priorities shifted. People were no longer satisfied with generic hotel rooms—they sought trust, homely experiences, and seamless service. Shubham realized this gap and envisioned a platform that offered curated homes with uncompromising quality, categorized as Classic, Luxe, and Elite.
Stay Ukiyo thrives on its customer-centric approach. Every property is vetted for comfort, cleanliness, and design. Guests can enjoy a range of add-on services, including private chefs, chauffeurs, and local experiences, ensuring every stay is tailored to individual preferences. This commitment to service has become the brand’s USP, alongside Ukiyo-verified properties, diverse listings, and dedicated human support.
Partnerships with brands such as Saffron Stay, Stay Elivaas, and Stay Vista help offer a wide range of properties. Guests no longer face uncertainty when booking—they know exactly what to expect. From families and couples to corporate retreats, the platform caters to a broad spectrum of needs.
Shubham’s philosophy is rooted in attention to detail and empathy. Small gestures—like ensuring the chef knows dietary preferences or the pool is immaculate—create lasting impressions. This focus has earned industry accolades, including 40 under 40 – Young Leaders, Big Impact 2025 and recognition from The Brand Story and The Classic Holidays.
Challenges have tested Shubham’s resilience. Managing teams, coordinating with multiple partners, and navigating personal loss required strategic thinking and support from mentors, family, and advisors. These experiences strengthened his leadership and reinforced the importance of networking and collaborative problem-solving.
Stay Ukiyo also benefits property owners and local communities. By listing homes on a verified platform, the company boosts tourism, creates jobs, and drives revenue, particularly in tier-2 and tier-3 cities. Guests, meanwhile, enjoy stress-free bookings, personalized attention, and consistent experiences.
Shubham believes that entrepreneurship requires patience, gratitude, and a continuous hunger for improvement. His advice to aspiring founders: work in the industry first, understand customer needs, leverage technology, and maintain a balance between diligence and enjoyment.
Ultimately, Stay Ukiyo is more than a hospitality platform—it’s a customer-first ecosystem that transforms how people travel. Through meticulous curation, personalized service, and trusted experiences, Shubham Pille has established a benchmark for excellence in India’s alternative stays market.
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