Popular now
Buzzworks acquires Gullane boutique hotel in off-market deal

Buzzworks acquires Gullane boutique hotel in off-market deal

Grantley Hall acquires 44 acres of adjoining land for expansion

Grantley Hall acquires 44 acres of adjoining land for expansion

North Lakes Hotel and Spa completes £760k bedroom refurbishment

North Lakes Hotel and Spa completes £760k bedroom refurbishment

IHG Hotels and Resorts adds 11 European properties to portfolio

IHG Hotels and Resorts adds 11 European properties to portfolio

The portfolio includes six hotels in Germany, four in Belgium and one at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

In this episode we speak to brothers Alex and Adrien Grosjean, young entrepreneurs who have recently acquired The Residence Inn by Marriott Manchester Piccadilly. We discussed the reasons why Manchester’s visitor market is booming, and their decision to invest in this area, why they see extended-stay accommodation as a major opportunity in what is one of the UK's fastest-growing cities, how they plan to enhance their portfolio of hotels, and their advice for the next generation of hospitality disruptors.

In association with

Register to get 3 free articles

Register to unlock the article and receive our free newsletter. Join 26,000 other hotel leaders and stay in the know.

No spam Unsubscribe anytime

Want unlimited access? View Plans

Already have an account? Sign in

IHG Hotels and Resorts has signed franchise agreements for 11 hotels in Germany, Belgium and France, adding more than 1,800 rooms to its European estate.

The properties will convert to the Holiday Inn, voco and Garner brands, marking the debut of the midscale Garner brand in Belgium.

The portfolio includes six hotels in Germany, four in Belgium and one at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport. The sites are expected to fully join the group by June 2027.

The hotels are currently operated under the PentaHotels brand. A joint venture between Ogilvy Management and Ironstone Group owns the assets, with financing from Castlelake and Goldman Sachs.

Bralower and Loewe Hospitality Partners will manage the sites. IHG currently has more than 1,230 open and pipeline properties across its European operations.

Karin Sheppard, senior VP and managing director for IHG Europe, said: “This agreement reinforces our strong confidence in the attractiveness and growth potential of the European hotel market for IHG, and underlines the appeal of our leading brands and enterprise for conversion opportunities.

“We’re delighted to partner with Ironstone Group and Ogilvy Management to welcome 11 high-quality hotels into our portfolio – all in prime city‑centre and key airport locations. Together, we share a clear ambition to deliver outstanding guest experiences to key city locations.”

Thomas Bralower, principal and vice president at Ironstone Group, added: “Supported by IHG Hotels and Resorts, we are delighted to convert 11 hotels across Germany, Belgium and France under the Holiday Inn, voco and Garner brands.

“Together, we are committed to providing exceptional hospitality and tailored services that meet the evolving needs of travellers across Europe.”

IHG’s European expansion reflects ongoing strategy

News Analysis

The addition of 11 new properties in Europe, primarily in Germany, Belgium, and France, aligns well with IHG Hotels and Resorts’ recent push to expand its brand presence. The group’s commitment to franchising and conversions has been a cornerstone of its strategy, evident from the 27% growth in its portfolio over the past three years. This shift suggests a careful calibration between maximising opportunities in prime locations and mitigating the risks associated with new developments.

Historically, IHG’s expansion has been characterised by a robust focus on brand conversions. This is underscored by the rapid ascent of the Garner brand, which has captured interest across Europe since its launch just over a year ago. In 2024 alone, conversions accounted for 41% of IHG’s new openings, a tactic that has consistently yielded quicker entries into lucrative markets and ensured that investor sentiments remain favourable.

As IHG expands its footprint, it must navigate an increasingly competitive European landscape where guest preferences are rapidly evolving. The choice to adopt established brands like Holiday Inn and voco reflects a strategic emphasis on brand recognition and trust.

Previous Post

Sirius Hotel Group creates acquisitions director role

Next Post

In the hospitality industry, people make the difference