IHG Opens First Holiday Inn Express Hotel in Cartagena

New hotel is the fifth Holiday Inn Express property in Colombia

Cartagena, Colombia – 09 April 2015 – InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) announces the opening of the Holiday Inn Express Cartagena Bocagrande hotel in Cartagena, Colombia. The new-build, 200-room hotel is the second IHG property in the city of Cartagena and the 12th property in Colombia. The Holiday Inn Cartagena Morros hotel is currently open, and the InterContinental Cartagena de Indias hotel will open later this year. The new Holiday Inn Express hotel is conveniently located in Bocagrande, the most modern area of Cartagena, which is home to numerous leisure attractions such as hotels, shops, restaurants, nightclubs and art galleries. The hotel is also near the city’s most famous tourist activities, which include the Old City, The Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, Rosario Islands and Cerro de La Popa.

Holiday Inn Express Cartagena Bocagrande

Gerardo Murray, Regional Vice President, Distribution and Commercial Marketing, Mexico, Latin America and The Caribbean, IHG said: “We are very pleased to introduce the Holiday Inn Express brand to Cartagena in conjunction with Grupo Contempo. Cartagena is now the fastest growing city in Colombia and is currently experiencing an influx of tourism. Known for providing guests an efficient stay with memorable, yet uncomplicated service, the Holiday Inn Express brand will certainly meet the needs of both business and leisure travelers in the city.”

Spanning 14 floors, the property is proud to be an IHG Green Engage hotel. The hotel offers guests a comfortable, yet affordable stay with innovative, preferred guest upgrades to ensure a pleasurable experience with amenities that include a 24-hour fitness center with views of the Old City, two outdoor swimming pools, complimentary high-speed Internet access, a business center, meeting spaces and complimentary parking. The complimentary Express Start™ breakfast bar features a full range of breakfast items, including regional and local dishes, a rotation of egg and meat selections, breads, yogurt, juices, fruit, pastries, cereals and coffee.

Located on the northern coast of Colombia, Cartagena, one of the oldest cities in the Americas, was founded by the Spanish conquistador Pedro de Heredia in 1533. It is Colombia’s fifth-largest urban area with a population of more than 1.2 million, and a key financial hub and tourist destination. Cartagena’s old town is a UNESCO World Heritage site – a maze of cobbled alleys, balconies covered in bougainvillea and massive churches. Its unique old world charm and modern infrastructure center has made Cartagena one of Colombia’s most successful cities.

IHG brings its Hotel Indigo brand to Bath, UK

Bath, UK – 09 April 2015 – InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) today announces the signing of Hotel Indigo Bath, United Kingdom. The hotel will operate under a franchise agreement with St James’ Hotels Group, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Somerston Group, a longstanding IHG partner.

This will be Somerston’s first Hotel Indigo property and forms part of a larger portfolio of Hotel Indigo hotels being developed by the group – a clear vote of confidence in the brand. The hotel is expected to open towards the end of 2016.

The 121-room property will be rebranded from two existing hotels and a restaurant all located in a Grade 1 listed historic Georgian building on South Parade. It will feature a restaurant, bar and gym.

Hotel Indigo Bath will be located right at the heart of Bath city centre, close to Bath Abbey and to the famous Thermae Bath Spa. The hotel will be perfect for those wanting to explore and discover the many historic and cultural experiences offered by this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Every Hotel Indigo property is designed to reflect the local neighbourhood and Hotel Indigo Bath will be no exception. From the exterior architecture to the hotel’s interior design and locally inspired menus; every Hotel Indigo is unique to its surroundings, and no two hotels are the same.

Anna Corkill, IHG’s Development Director for the UK, said: “The boutique hotel market is the fastest growing segment in the industry and our pioneering Hotel Indigo brand is leading the field in Europe. We’re thrilled to have found such a perfect site in Bath and we’re looking forward to working with St James’ Hotels Group to open a brand-defining Hotel Indigo property.”

Shaun Robinson, Managing Director of St James’ Hotels Group said: “Hotel Indigo and Bath are the perfect fit. I am very excited to be bringing the brand to a place that enjoys a world-wide reputation as a ‘must-see’ city drawing guests from every continent, keen to experience the architecture, the culture and the history.”

In January 2015, the Hotel Indigo brand’s new locally crafted food and beverage philosophy was launched. Restaurants and bars are the heart and soul of any good neighbourhood so the philosophy brings the best artisans from the local community into Hotel Indigo properties to offer a truly authentic local flavour. The result is a landmark food offering that can be enjoyed not just by guests but by the locals themselves.

Last year the Hotel Indigo brand celebrated its tenth anniversary with the opening of its 60th hotel globally – Hotel Indigo® Paris Opera. IHG’s global expansion has accelerated over the past three years, with the portfolio of open hotels outside of the US more than tripling in size as the brand continues to attract high quality opportunities in new gateway cities*. In Europe, there are 17 Hotel Indigo properties open with a further 12 hotels signed into IHG’s development pipeline. Of those, eight Hotel Indigo properties are open in the UK and a further seven are in the pipeline. There are currently seven IHG hotels in Bath.

IHG announces locations of first two Hualuxe Hotels and Resorts properties

Shanghai, China – 28 January 2015 – InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) today announces the locations of its first two Hualuxe Hotels and Resorts properties in Greater China. Hualuxe Hotels and Resorts is the world’s first international luxury hotel brand specifically designed for Chinese consumers.

– Hualuxe Nanchang High Tech Zone is located in Nanchang, the capital of the Jiangxi Province and a key catalyst to the economic growth in Southeast China. The hotel is situated in one of the city’s tallest buildings with a sky lobby overlooking the city. Operating on the 39th to 56th floor, the hotel has 281 guest rooms with 21 club rooms and deluxe suites, 3 distinctive restaurants and best-in-class banquet facilities, including an 800m2 pillar-less ballroom. Owned by Shanghai-based Greenland Group, a leading real estate developer in China and one of IHG’s long-standing strategic partners, Hualuxe Nanchang High Tech Zone will open as a new landmark for Nanchang.
– Hualuxe Yangjiang City Centre is located in the heart of Yangjiang, a fast developing leisure and business destination in China’s Guangdong Province. With enviable views of Yuanyang Lake, the hotel features 282 deluxe rooms, including 76 club and deluxe suites, the largest pillar-less ballroom in the city and a range of restaurants offering local and international cuisine. The property will also be the coastal city’s first hotel to be operated as part of an international brand family.

Richard Solomons, Chief Executive Officer of IHG commented: “This is a very important milestone for IHG as we announce the locations of the first two Hualuxe Hotels and Resorts properties in China. The brand was built on over three decades of market insight, experience and leadership in China and epitomises the finest elements of China’s world-renowned hospitality. The brand has been well-received in the market since its launch in 2012 and we are on track with our vision of taking it to 100 cities in Greater China over the next 15 to 20 years. The first two hotels, in Nanchang and Yangjiang, are located in China’s heartland and working with our trusted owners, we are confident they will be welcomed by both Chinese and international consumers.”

IHG has ambitious plans for Hualuxe Hotels and Resorts in Greater China and internationally. Since IHG first announced the launch of the brand in 2012, it has signed 24 hotels into the pipeline in 20 cities across China including Beijing, Shanghai and Chengdu. All 24 hotels are due to open over the next 3 to 5 years. As Chinese outbound travel continues to grow and gain momentum, IHG also plans to introduce the brand into key international destinations, such as London and New York, to meet the specific requirements of the Chinese travellers wherever they may be.

Woven into every detail of the luxury brand’s service and design is an acknowledgement of Chinese culture and heritage, with particular emphasis on the Chinese values of etiquette, rejuvenation in nature, recognition of status and enabling space. Adhering to these values means that Hualuxe Hotels and Resorts is able to satisfy the demands of Chinese business and social interaction and is the first international hotel brand to do so.

IHG and Carr City Centers Announce Plan to Develop a New InterContinental Hotel in Southwest Washington, D.C.

Carr Hospitality Expands its IHG Hotel Portfolio with Landmark Property

Washington, D.C. – 27 January 2015 – IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) and Carr City Centers announce  a new InterContinental Hotels & Resorts property in Washington, D.C. The 278-room new build hotel will be part of The Wharf, a world-class, mixed-use waterfront development located on the historic Washington Channel.  IHG, Carr and Clark Enterprises partnered together to form a joint venture with Wharf Master Developer Hoffman-Madison Waterfront to develop and own the InterContinental.

The new InterContinental hotel will complement the iconic Willard InterContinental Washington D.C. hotel – also part of the Carr portfolio – in catering to business and leisure travelers seeking a luxury guest experience. Expected to open in Q2 of 2017, the hotel will feature a signature restaurant, spa, rooftop pool and bar, 17,000 square feet of meeting space with water views, and a sky view lounge with breathtaking views of D.C. and the waterfront.

Joel Eisemann, Chief Development Officer, The Americas at IHG commented: “This new InterContinental hotel will add to and enhance the momentum of the brand’s growth in high profile international cities and resort destinations. Carr Hospitality and IHG have had an extremely successful long-term relationship, and we look forward to continuing to grow and expand our partnership.”

The new IHG-managed hotel will reflect the contemporary style and commitment to sustainable design at the brand’s flagship city destinations – InterContinental New York Times Square and InterContinental San Francisco. The Washington D.C. property will apply for LEED Silver certification, contributing to the overall LEED-ND Gold status of The Wharf.

Austin Flajser, president of Carr Hospitality: “The new InterContinental hotel on the southwest waterfront is an exciting opportunity to develop a marquee property as part of a first-class redevelopment in such a highly visible gateway to the city. We are creating a unique property with waterfront views and amenities unlike anything else offered in Washington, D.C. We currently have several hotel projects with IHG across its portfolio of brands, including the Crowne Plaza® Hotels & Resorts, Hotel Indigo and Holiday Inn Hotels & Resorts brands, and this new hotel further strengthens our relationship.”

Monty Hoffman, PN Hoffman CEO and managing member of Hoffman-Madison Waterfront: “We are pleased to be working with Carr, Clark and IHG – best-in-class partners that will create an exhilarating waterfront hotel at The Wharf.”

InterContinental Hotels & Resorts has grown to be more than twice the size of any other competitor luxury brand globally. With about 180 hotels open worldwide and more than 50 hotels in the global development pipeline, IHG continues to expand the brand’s portfolio in the most sought-after destinations around the world. In late 2014, the company announced the opening of the InterContinental Sydney Double Bay and the signings of six new hotels across the U.S., Europe, Australia, and south Asia, including the new 900-room InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown property, which will become the largest InterContinental hotel in the Americas.

IHG opens Crowne Plaza London Battersea

London – 22 January 2015 – InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) today announced the opening of Crowne Plaza London – Battersea. The rebranded 78 room hotel is owned by Fabiano Hotels LTD and managed by IHG. It is located close to Clapham Junction, one of the UK’s busiest railway stations with easy connections to both the centre of London and Gatwick Airport. Given this high volume of passengers the hotel is a great location for guests on the go.

Crowne Plaza London Battersea – Room

For those travelling on business the hotel features 200 m2 of meeting space, free wifi and ample car parking.  What’s more, being adjacent to London Heliport, it’s also ideal for those travelling from afar for high-level meetings. For leisure guests the area has many busy nightlife locations and is in easy reach of many of London’s top attractions.

Guests can take advantage of the Verta Spa and gym facilities followed by a relaxing drink in the Terrace bar which overlooks the River Thames.  For dining, the Riverside Grill Restaurant serves a British grill with a twist and diners can watch the chefs in action.

Paul Watson, General Manager Crowne Plaza London – Battersea said: “We’re delighted to have opened Crowne Plaza London – Battersea in this bustling hub of London. We look forward to welcoming guests to our hotel and helping them have a comfortable and productive stay. ”

Harry Mohinani, Director of Fabiano Hotels Limited said: “We’re thrilled to open up our first property with one of the most reputable hotel companies in the business. Crowne Plaza London – Battersea is the perfect location for guests travelling to London on business or leisure.”

Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts is the second largest upscale hotel brand globally, at nearly 400* hotels in more than 60 countries worldwide, with amenities and services designed to help guests be productive when traveling for work. It has been a recognised and reputable meetings hotel brand for the last 30 years offering guests relevant and effective solutions through its signature meetings programme.

IHG signs two InterContinental Hotels in Europe

London – 18 December 2014 – InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) announced the signing of two InterContinental Hotels in two focus markets in Europe. InterContinental Dublin will bring iconic luxury to Ireland, and InterContinental Baku represents the brand’s debut in Azerbaijan.

From 1 January, 2015 InterContinental Dublin will operate under a franchise agreement with Ballsbridge Hotel Limited, an affiliate of London & Regional Properties. It will be located in the former Four Seasons Hotel Dublin, one of Ireland’s top-rated hotels.

Situated in Dublin’s prestigious neighbourhood Ballsbridge, the hotel features 197 guest rooms inclusive of 58 suites, an indoor swimming pool, spa & fitness centre, two restaurants and two bars. It also boasts impressive meeting and event space with two ballrooms totalling more than 15,000 square feet (over 1,400 square meters).

Meanwhile InterContinental Baku, due to open in 2016, will operate under a franchise agreement with AZ-ORS LLC.  The hotel will be managed by The Ceylan Group – owners and managers of the highly successful InterContinental® Istanbul, Turkey.

The new build hotel will include a total of 105 rooms featuring a number of junior and executive suites and one presidential suite.  InterContinental Baku will be located in the heart of the Azerbaijani capital’s shopping district on BulBul Avenue and Zarifa Aliyeva Street, near the famous seaside promenade Baku Boulevard.

Robert Shepherd, Chief Development Officer, Europe, IHG said: “We are thrilled to have signed two flagship InterContinental hotels in two important markets; and both properties are going to be fantastic additions to our portfolio. InterContinental Hotels & Resorts continues to remain relevant to owners and guests as it expands across Europe, further cementing its position as the largest luxury global hotel brand.”

IHG’s InterContinental Hotels & Resorts has hotels in more than 60 countries worldwide, with local insight that comes from 67 years’ experience. There are currently 178 InterContinental Hotels and Resorts globally and 53 in the pipeline.

IHG agrees to acquire Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants to create the world’s largest boutique hotel business Kimpton hotels & restaurants

London – 16 December 2014 – IHG has agreed to acquire Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants for $430 million in cash. Kimpton is the world’s largest independent boutique hotel operator and a sophisticated food and beverage operator. Kimpton is a fully asset-light business that manages 62 hotels in the most attractive cities and resorts in the US with a further 16 hotels in the pipeline. It operates 71 hotel-based destination restaurants and bars – Acquisition makes IHG the clear market leader in the boutique segment, the fastest growing segment in the industry. Highly complementary with IHG’s Hotel Indigo and EVEN Hotels brands; creates a leading boutique and lifestyle hotel business, with over 200 open and pipeline hotels across 19 countries. Significant opportunities identified for IHG to accelerate the growth of the Kimpton brand within the US and to launch it globally. Compelling financial rationale with Kimpton EBITDA expected to double by the end of 2017. The transaction will be earnings enhancing in its first full year and achieve returns above IHG’s cost of capital by year three.

Watch hotel report on HOTELIER TV: http://www.hoteliertv.net/international/ihg-acquires-kimpton-in-430-million-deal/

Richard Solomons, Chief Executive Officer of IHG, commented: “Kimpton is a well-established and highly successful business that has built an industry leading position in the US.  It has created a portfolio of world-class hotels and destination restaurants, and the distinctive and innovative Kimpton brand will fit perfectly into the IHG brand family.  Adding Kimpton to our portfolio of preferred brands creates the world’s largest boutique hotel business.

The acquisition is another step in IHG’s well-established asset-light strategy of investing in high-quality growth, building on a strong track record of developing iconic global brands.  We will use our scale, network of owner relationships, and powerful digital platforms to accelerate Kimpton’s growth both within the US and internationally.

The hugely talented Kimpton team will continue to be led by Mike DeFrino, currently Kimpton’s COO, and I am delighted to welcome all of Kimpton’s associates and owners to the IHG family. The culture and values of both companies are well aligned and Kimpton will bring a wealth of expertise and specialist skills to IHG.”

Mike Depatie, Chief Executive Officer of Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants, commented: “Kimpton is a unique business with a strong track record of excellence in everything from design and innovative hotel concepts to financial and operational performance.  It also has enormous potential for growth, both in its home market of the US and globally.  IHG is the ideal partner for Kimpton and has absolutely the right experience and specialist capabilities to help the business move to the next phase of rapid growth.  Kimpton and IHG have many things in common, not least our shared values and approach to building brands.  As an owner of a significant number of Kimpton hotels through our real estate investment funds, I am committed to developing additional Kimpton hotels and I look forward to seeing Kimpton go from strength to strength as part of IHG.”

Kimpton Overview
Kimpton was established in 1981, and is the largest independent boutique hotel and restaurant business in the US.  It manages 62 hotels (11.3k rooms) across 28 cities in the US in attractive urban and resort locations such as Boston, Chicago, Florida, Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, Seattle and Washington D.C.  There are a further 16 hotels in the development pipeline (3.0k rooms), of which 10 are under construction.  Kimpton also operates 71 hotel-based destination restaurants, bars and lounges across the US.

Kimpton caters for a broad and varied range of guest needs, including ‘Mixing Business with Pleasure’, ‘Short Break Experience’, ‘Romantic Getaway’ and ‘Wellbeing’ at an upper upscale price point.  It also has a well-established and sophisticated member loyalty programme, Kimpton Karma Rewards, which has approximately 1.6 million members.

Significant Opportunity to Accelerate Growth
Adding Kimpton to IHG’s portfolio of preferred brands, alongside its highly successful Hotel Indigo and EVEN Hotels brands, will create a leading boutique and lifestyle hotel business, with over 200 open and pipeline hotels across 19 countries.

The boutique hotel segment has been the fastest growing in the hospitality industry over the last four years, with demand, supply, and RevPAR growth for boutique hotels in the US each significantly outperforming the overall industry.

IHG will capitalise on its scale, powerful global owner networks, digital platforms, and specialist capabilities of building preferred brands to enhance Kimpton’s growth globally.  In particular, there is a significant opportunity to expand the brand in Europe and Asia where there is strong demand for boutique brands.  IHG will also benefit from Kimpton’s strong track record in operational excellence, food & beverage and design, to add value across its current brand portfolio.

The Kimpton Real Estate Investment Funds, which are run by four existing Kimpton executives, expect to make future investments in Kimpton branded hotels.  The Funds own approximately 30% of Kimpton’s existing and pipeline properties and intend to raise additional funds to acquire, develop and redevelop boutique hotels.  As part of this investment platform, the Funds expect to have a meaningful and on-going relationship with the Kimpton brand.

Financial Performance
Kimpton has a strong track record of operational and financial performance, achieving 4.0% per annum growth in system size and 7.7% average growth in comparable same store RevPAR in the last five years.  Kimpton’s EBITDA is expected to be approximately $20 million for the year ended 31 December 2014, and IHG expects to be able to deliver future growth in Kimpton EBITDA to approximately $39 million by 2017 from the opening of hotels in the pipeline and the achievement of certain back office and technology savings.

Transaction Overview
The Transaction will be financed through existing cash resources and new debt facilities, and is expected to close during the first quarter of 2015 upon satisfaction of certain customary conditions, including Hart-Scott-Rodino anti-trust clearance and Kimpton shareholder consent.

For US tax purposes, the transaction constitutes an asset sale for both the vendor and purchaser, and IHG is entitled to amortise the assets acquired.  It is anticipated that the relief associated with this amortisation will reduce future taxes by approximately $160m. BofA Merrill Lynch acted as financial adviser to IHG.

IHG Signs Crowne Plaza Hotel in Medellin – Hotel adds to IHG’s growing footprint in Colombia

Medellin, Colombia – 21 November 2014 – InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) announces the signing of a new-build, 199-room Crowne Plaza hotel in Medellin, Colombia. The Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts brand is one of the fastest growing hotel brands in the world, with nearly 400 hotels open across more than 60 countries. The hotel will be located in Medellin’s upscale “El Poblado” neighborhood, occupying one of two towers in the Palmanova luxury, mixed-use development and connected to the Palma Real Multiplaza. This will be IHG’s third property in Medellin, joining the InterContinental Medellin and the Holiday Inn Express Medellin. There are nine hotels open and seven hotels in the development pipeline in Colombia across IHG’s InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, Crowne Hotels & Resorts, Holiday Inn, and Holiday Inn Express brands.

Slated to open in 2018, the Crowne Plaza Medellin hotel is owned by Grupo Contempo S.A.S., which also owns the Holiday Inn Express Bogota. Grupo Contempo plans to develop several other IHG-branded hotels, including three Holiday Inn Express hotels expected to open by 2015 in Bogotá’s Zona Financiera, Cartagena and Barranquilla.

Joel Eisemann, chief development officer, the Americas at IHG commented: “Colombia is an important market for IHG in Latin America. We have solidified our presence in Colombia by partnering with outstanding groups such as Grupo Contempo. This is the fifth project we have signed with Grupo Contempo, and we are looking forward to continuing to grow with them. We are extremely enthused about this Crowne Plaza project, which will feature a modern design that is in line with the new, fresh image and direction in which the Crowne Plaza brand is going.”

The Crowne Plaza Medellin is situated at the foothills of the mountain range and offers sweeping views of the city, including a 360° view from the pool bar located on the top floor. The hotel will feature a ground floor restaurant and lobby bar, a flexible 4,500 sq. ft. ballroom and about 1,000 sq. ft. of meeting space, as well as signature amenities such as the fitness center, business center and the Crowne Plaza Sleep Advantage program that encompasses the entire sleep experience – from services provided by a well-trained staff to innovative products that create a restful environment.

Alvaro Diago, chief operating officer, Latin America and the Caribbean, IHG said: “We are committed to offering business travelers staying at Crowne Plaza hotels the high-touch amenities and services that enable them to be productive while on the road. We are excited to have a new hotel to meet the needs of these guests, providing them with a well-recognized hotel brand that delivers a consistent guest experience near to Medellin’s domestic and financial entities, manufacturing and production facilities and other businesses.”

IHG signs two hotels under its eighth multiple development agreement in Germany

Berlin, Germany – 03 November 2014 – InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) announces the signing of two Holiday Inn hotels under its eighth multiple development agreement (MDA) in Germany. The two hotels – Holiday Inn Dresden – City South and Holiday Inn, Villingen-Schwenningen are the first to be signed with new owner partner FFF Group.  The MDA will see five IHG branded hotels developed in total.

Holiday Inn Dresden – City South (formerly FFF City Hotel Leonardo), is due to open next year. The 93-room hotel will feature the brand’s signature Open Lobby, as well as an all-day dining restaurant and four conference rooms.

Dresden is regaining its cultural importance as a centre for art, architecture and music and is growing in popularity as a destination for business and leisure guests.  This historical city is home to the Saxon State Opera, several museums and over 13,000 listed cultural monuments. The hotel occupies a great location nearby Dresden University of Technology on Bamberger Street.

Holiday Inn Dresden – City South will strengthen IHG’s presence in the area as it joins Holiday Inn Dresden and  Holiday Inn Express Dresden – City Centre.  Holiday Inn Dresden – Am Zwinger is also due to open in the city in 2015.

Meanwhile Holiday Inn Villingen-Schwenningen will be a new-build property opening in 2016. The hotel will feature 178 rooms, a gym, an Open Lobby and extensive conference facilities with more than 500 square metres of conference space.

Located between the Villingen and Schwenningen municipalities, Holiday Inn Villingen-Schwenningen is the first IHG hotel to be developed in the area.  It is conveniently located right next to one of the new and leading hospitals and research institutions on Schwenninger Street and is only four kilometres away from Villingen-Schwenningen train station. The district’s stunning surroundings – the Black Forest, the mouth of the River Danube and Lake Konstanz (Bodensee) – attract a steady flow of domestic and international travellers.

Martin Bowen, Associate Vice President of Development, Germany, IHG said: “We’re delighted to have signed our eighth MDA in Germany and look forward to working with FFF on these projects. MDAs are proving to be a key driver in accelerating our growth and that of our owners’ in Germany.”

Dirk Feid, Managing Director and Founder of FFF said: “We’re excited about these new developments and believe they will perform very strongly. Holiday Inn is the most recognised hotel brand in the world so we’re delighted to debut the brand in Villingen Schwenningen. Equally we know Holiday Inn Dresden –City South will add further value to Dresden’s hospitality market and provide guests with a comfortable stay in a friendly relaxed atmosphere.”

Every Holiday Inn features signature bedding that includes a pillow menu, as well as meeting and on-site business facilities, free breakfast and a Kids Stay and Eat Free programme.  There are currently 283 Holiday Inn hotels & Resorts in Europe with a further 33 in the pipeline.

IHG launches the Holiday Inn Express brand in Russia

Moscow, Russia – 22 October 2014 – InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) today announces the launch of its Holiday Inn Express brand in Russia, the CIS and Georgia. In cooperation with Regional Hotel Chain (RHC), Russia’s rapidly growing hotel property developer, IHG is pleased to introduce Holiday Inn Express Voronezh – Kirova which marks the debut of the brand in the region and will open its doors in just a few weeks’ time. The opening comes only months after IHG brought its Hotel Indigo brand to Russia for the first time, with the opening of Hotel Indigo St Petersburg – Tchaikovskogo.

Designed to be the right choice for value-conscious business and leisure travellers, Holiday Inn Express is part of IHG’s Holiday Inn brand family.  The brand’s proposition of Simple. Smart. Spot on., offers guests everything they need and nothing they don’t. Wi-Fi and a Holiday Inn Express Start™ breakfast are included in the room price at every Holiday Inn Express hotel in Europe.

Regional Hotel Chain (RHC), a portfolio company of VIY Management (VIYM) and IHG signed a franchise multiple development agreement (MDA) in 2013 to develop a number of Holiday Inn Express hotels by 2019. The MDA agreement is a significant step towards IHG’s ambition to be market leaders in Russia, the CIS and Georgia with 100 hotels open or in the development pipeline by 2020.

Robert Shepherd, Chief Development Officer, Europe, IHG said: “Russia, the CIS and Georgia is a priority market for us and we want to be number one there. In line with our strategy we are expanding our portfolio of brands in the region and in March this year we brought our upscale boutique brand Hotel Indigo to Russia.  We have also identified a gap in the market for quality, affordable mid-market accommodation and our Holiday Inn Express brand meets the needs of our owners and our guests perfectly.  We’re delighted to be partnering with VIY Management and its hotel business RHC – a proven and highly respected hotel developer and operator in Russia.”

The 145 – room Holiday Inn Express Voronezh – Kirova is located in the heart of Voronezh city centre at Kirova Street 9/1, Voronezh, and is within walking distance of the main sights: Voronezh State Opera and Ballet Theatre, the Local Museum, Annunciation Cathedral and Koltsov Square with its musical fountain. With a population of around one million, Voronezh is a thriving regional centre strategically located on the main rail network and on the M4 highway between Moscow and Rostov-on-Don.  The hotel is just 20 km from Voronezh International Airport and 4 km from Voronezh-1 Central Train Station.

The hotel offers guests a comfortable, yet affordable stay. All rooms are the same size however guests can choose between a family room with a sofa, a king size double or a twin room.  Guests have the option of two pillow choices – soft or firm.  Each room has a workspace with a desk and chair, flat-screen TV, safe, bathroom with shower, large mirror, hairdryer and toiletries. The complimentary Express Start™ breakfast bar features a full range of breakfast items, including regional and local dishes.

Michael Johnston, CEO of Regional Hotel Chain LLC, said: “We’re thrilled to be opening our first Holiday Inn Express hotel under our MDA with IHG and also our first modular constructed hotel.  Our agreement with IHG is of strategic importance to us, providing us with an excellent platform for further growth as we continue to develop hotels throughout Russia.”

Dmitry Schuetzle, Managing Director of VIY Management, added:  “Some question whether now is the right time to be investing in Russia. At VIYM, we are pleased that the world-renowned hotel group IHG shares our view on the attractive long-term investment potential in Russia’s fast-growing hotel market.  Today we launch the Holiday Inn Express brand in Voronezh, while the headroom for further growth for us across Russia remains substantial.”

Launched in 1991, the Holiday Inn Express brand opens hotels at a rate of two per week on average across the world and is part of the Holiday Inn portfolio of brands, which is the largest global hotel brand, with the largest global pipeline. There are currently 220 Holiday Inn Express hotels open in Europe and 41 in the development pipeline*.

IHG’s broader family of nine brands in nearly 100 countries meets the needs of guests, whatever the occasion – whether an overnight getaway, a business trip, a family celebration or a once-in-a-lifetime experience.  All IHG hotels participate in IHG’s guest loyalty programme, IHG® Rewards Club which is the industry’s first and largest guest loyalty programme with over 82 million members.  It is free to join at http://www.IHGRewardsClub.com.