IHG Hotels & Resorts targets mainstream growth in Thailand

IHG Hotels & Resorts (IHG), one of the world's leading hotel companies, is growing its mainstream brand portfolio in Thailand to strengthen its market-leading position in the segment.

IHG is renowned across the globe for the outstanding reputation enjoyed by Holiday Inn Hotels & Resorts and Holiday Inn Express, which attract international and domestic guests seeking great stays at exceptional value. Garner, its newest brand, has great potential to extend that leadership and growth in the midscale space.

Now, the company has set out its mainstream growth strategy for Thailand, through delivering experiences that guests love in its estate of 22 open hotels and a pipeline of 16 properties to meet travellers expectations for years to come. This is part of the group's aim to double its overall portfolio in Thailand to over 70 hotels in the next few years.

Vivek Bhalla, Managing Director, South East Asia & Korea - IHG, said: "At IHG, we're proud of the market-leading position of our mainstream brands, and are excited to grow further in this segment in Thailand - one of our key markets in South East Asia.

"RevPar rose 13% year-on-year in Thailand in the first half of 2024¹, and with visa free travel driving demand, we are seeing double digit growth from our key source markets for the fourth quarter. Phuket, Samui and Bangkok remain the most popular destinations for tourists, while domestic travellers are opting for road trips to locations such as Hua Hin, Rayong, Pattaya and Khao Yai.

"Travel outlook continues to be healthy with international arrivals projected at 14.8% growth rate from now till 2028, with Bangkok expected to hit 6.5% this year and rise a further 2.1% in 2025². We're responding to this demand by expanding our portfolio across the country, ensuring it's also attractive to Millennials and Gen Z travellers who are discerning about spending, yet committed to enjoying enriching and authentic travel experiences."

More than half of IHG's open hotels in Thailand, and almost 50% of its country pipeline are mainstream brands, with upcoming openings including Holiday Inn Express Phayathai and Holiday Inn Express Bangkok Asoke.
Vivek continued: "We're delighted to keep growing our portfolio and look forward to welcoming guests at Holiday Inn Express Phayathai and Holiday Inn Express Bangkok Asoke, as well as our other fantastic locations.

"We also see fantastic opportunities to introduce IHG's newest brand - Garner - in Thailand and are confident of its growth potential in city and resort locations including Bangkok, Phuket and Pattaya. Since it launched in August 2023, Garner has raced to four open hotels and a pipeline of 79 properties around the world, as it focuses on the key things its guests value - a convenient location, sound night's sleep and good WIFI."

IHG's strength in its mainstream brands stretches across its portfolio: Holiday Inn features a refreshed Open Lobby design and new F&B experiences; Holiday Inn Express has introduced 24/7 F&B with Express Cafe & Bar and a 'Suites' category for longer stay guests and larger groups and Holiday Inn Resorts is creating unforgettable family experiences with its KidSuites, fantastic Kids Club and pools.

Vivek added: "At IHG, we know it's important that we continue to evolve our guest experiences across all of our brands, as we understand the value that so many of our IHG One Rewards members, and all our guests, place on consistency, quality and reliability when booking stays.

"We are in Thailand for Thailand, committed to creating the best stay experiences for our guests, and increased returns for our valued owners."

As of 30 June 2024

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• ข่าว Mainstream