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In a transformative surge powered by robust demand and strategic brand proliferation, IHG Hotels & Resorts asserts its dominance within the Asia Pacific (APAC) hospitality market, charting a course for unprecedented expansion.

Elie Maalouf, IHG’s astute CEO, articulated this growth trajectory at the prestigious Hotel Investment Conference Asia Pacific (HICAP) in Singapore. With the backdrop of a revitalized global travel sector, Maalouf’s commentary revealed a world eager for the unique offerings of IHG’s distinguished portfolio.

He highlighted, “Whether for business or leisure, our brands are the selected sanctuaries for global travelers.” This is substantiated by a global leap in third-quarter revenue per available room (RevPAR), soaring 10.5% year-over-year, with group and meeting bookings surging past pre-pandemic levels by 37%.

“The industry’s pulse is vibrant with growth prospects,” Maalouf reflected, citing the vigorous recovery in the Greater China region, where Q3 RevPAR eclipsed figures from 2019. This resurgence is echoed in the burgeoning frequency of domestic flights across APAC, outstripping previous records. While international air travel gradually ascends toward its former zenith, the multitude of new routes unfurling worldwide emboldens industry optimism.

IHG’s portfolio, an impressive assembly of over 6,200 hotels and 930,000 rooms, witnesses the inauguration of landmark properties such as Carlton Cannes, voco Osaka Central, and Kimpton Qiantan Shanghai. Hotel signings have escalated by 27% in a year, with Luxury & Lifestyle brands experiencing a notable uptick in interest.

In APAC, Maalouf envisions IHG to be an omnipresent force, building upon the stalwart foundation laid by the beloved Holiday Inn brands. “Our intent is to weave our narrative across all segments, especially Luxury & Lifestyle, which now accounts for a significant slice of our global presence,” Maalouf stated.

The APAC region is the beating heart of IHG’s Luxury & Lifestyle segment, accounting for 35% of the system size and nearly half of the global pipeline, indicative of a keen focus on upscale expansion.

The InterContinental brand’s APAC pipeline surpasses 60% of its global scale, while Regent Hotels & Resorts rejuvenates its presence with the iconic Regent Hong Kong set to captivate the city anew.

Beyond physical expansion, IHG invests profoundly in its enterprise platform, aiming to reign as the prime choice for guests, owners, and stakeholders. The IHG One Rewards loyalty program flourished, ballooning to over 115 million members, driven by a staggering 60% enrollment boost in early 2023. IHG’s innovative mobile app now channels half of all digital bookings, marking it the fastest-growing reservation conduit.

Commitment to growth extends beyond fiscal metrics, with IHG pledging allegiance to responsible expansion. Maalouf emphasized, “Our growth is anchored in conscientious principles.” IHG’s Journey to Tomorrow initiative embodies this ethos, aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.

Charity initiatives across APAC demonstrate IHG’s societal contributions, partnering with organizations such as APSN in Singapore and OzHarvest in Australia to provide support and relief in times of need.

Maalouf says, “As we elevate our business, we do so with integrity.” With IHG’s substantial commitments, the company strides towards fostering an inclusive workplace, facilitating community skill development, and implementing environmental conservation.

IHG’s blueprint for expansion in APAC is not merely a business strategy; it is a testament to its dedication to guest satisfaction, stakeholder value, and global stewardship. In the dynamic theatre of global hospitality, IHG Hotels & Resorts is setting the stage for a sustainable future where luxury, innovation, and responsibility converge.