Inside IHG Hotels & Resorts: A Global Leader in Hospitality

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) stands as one of the largest and most recognized hotel companies in the world. With a broad portfolio of brands, a strong global footprint, and decades of innovation, IHG continues to shape the future of hospitality.

A Brief History of IHG

IHG traces its roots back to 1777 when William Bass founded the Bass Brewery in England. Though originally a brewing company, Bass entered the hospitality business in the 1980s. In 1988, Bass acquired Holiday Inn International, marking a significant step into global hospitality.

In 2003, IHG was officially formed when Six Continents PLC, Bass’s successor, split into two businesses: Mitchells & Butlers (retail) and IHG (hospitality). Since then, IHG has expanded rapidly through brand development and acquisitions.

A Global Presence

IHG operates in more than 100 countries, with over 6,300 hotels in its portfolio as of 2024. These properties range from luxury resorts to budget-friendly accommodations.

Headquartered in Denham, United Kingdom, IHG also maintains regional offices in the United States, China, Singapore, and the United Arab Emirates.

With over 900,000 rooms globally, IHG serves millions of travelers annually and employs tens of thousands worldwide.

Learn more:
IHG Corporate Website

The IHG Portfolio of Brands

IHG offers a diverse set of hotel flags to serve every type of guest, from luxury travelers to business road warriors. Here’s a breakdown of their brand families:

Luxury & Lifestyle

These brands offer high-end experiences and unique design.

• InterContinental Hotels & Resorts – Iconic luxury for global travelers.

• Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants – Boutique hotels with bold style and local flavor.

• Regent Hotels & Resorts – Ultra-luxury focused on serenity and sophistication.

• Vignette Collection – Unique, independent hotels with distinct identities.

• Hotel Indigo – Design-focused hotels inspired by their neighborhoods.

Premium

These brands serve travelers seeking quality and comfort.

• voco Hotels – Upscale with personality and sustainability focus.

• Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts – Designed for modern business travelers.

• Even Hotels – Wellness-focused with fitness and healthy living integrated.

• HUALUXE Hotels and Resorts – Created for the Chinese luxury market.

Essentials

These brands provide reliable comfort at affordable rates.

• Holiday Inn Hotels & Resorts – The most recognized brand in IHG’s portfolio.

• Holiday Inn Express – Simple, smart travel for short stays.

• avid Hotels – Clean, comfortable, and consistent economy brand.

Suites

Perfect for extended stays and families.

• Staybridge Suites – Residential-style lodging with kitchens and social spaces.

• Candlewood Suites – Long-term stays with value and convenience.

• Atwell Suites – A new flexible option between a hotel and extended stay.

Strategic Growth and Development

IHG continues to grow through franchise and management agreements, not property ownership. This model allows rapid expansion with minimal capital investment.

The company places strong emphasis on sustainability, technology, and guest experience. Initiatives include reducing carbon emissions, enhancing mobile check-in, and expanding loyalty rewards.

IHG One Rewards, its loyalty program, has over 100 million members and helps drive repeat business across all brands.

Conclusion: A Trusted Leader in Hospitality

IHG has built a powerful global brand through innovation, quality, and consistency. With offerings in every segment of the hotel market, IHG serves both business and leisure travelers around the world.

As the hospitality industry evolves, IHG remains focused on guest satisfaction, sustainability, and strategic growth.