IHG launches ‘Clean Promise’ guarantee

IHG has announced the launch of the global IHG Clean Promise that will introduce new cleaning protocols, service standards and partners across its hotels. The move comes in partnership with Cleveland Clinic, Ecolab and Diversey, and will use “science-led protocols” and service measures to give guests and employees protection in light of the ongoing crisis. IHG Clean Promise will roll out globally from 1 June 2020, and will be led by IHG’s new global cleanliness board, a group of IHG experts in operations, health, safety and guest experience. The group will define solutions, best practice and implement processes, and on-site teams will appoint ‘clean champions’ to “continue building the culture of clean instilled in IHG hotels around the world”. In a newly-released statement, the hotel group said that the ‘Clean Promise’ guarantee will “redefine cleanliness” and build upon the previously established IHG Way of Clean, that was launched in 2015 and developed with hygiene technology groups Ecolab and Diversey. The hotel group will now expand the ‘Way of Clean’ programme with the addition of Covid-19 protocols and best practices, and will keep in line with guidance from the World Health Organisation. The expanded programme includes deep cleaning with hospital-grade disinfectants, as well as a reduced contact at check-in, touchless transactions, sanitised key cards and a paperless checkout. There will be a reduction of in-room furnishings and high-touch items, and an additional deep cleaning of high-touch surfaces in public spaces. Social distancing, ‘last cleaned’ charts, best practices for pools, fitness centres and lounges will also be implemented, and there will be a new standards and service approach to buffets, banquets, room service and catering. IHG is also working closely with a team of medical experts at the Cleveland Clinic to develop guidance and resources for hotel teams on returning to work and ensuring the safety of guests. Keith Barr, CEO of IHG, said: “The future of travel may look different, but a safe, secure stay is fundamental to deliver True Hospitality – and that will never change. “By combining IHG’s world-class knowledge and processes, with cutting-edge expertise from Cleveland Clinic, Ecolab and Diversey, we can reassure guests and colleagues that we’re focused on protecting their health and wellbeing.” He added: “This includes looking at where technology can make a difference, deploying enhanced, highly visible and more frequent cleaning measures, and different approaches to food and beverage, all underpinned by our new IHG Clean Promise.”