Newstrack

IHG to focus on B cities, standalone properties

Sanjeev Bhar - New Delhi

Eyeing to spread its management services in India, the InterContinental Hotel Group (IHG) has identified smaller cities (tier-II cities and tertiary cities) and standalone properties.

Speaking on the focus the group has on management contracts, Michael G Herrmann, director (Operations) for Southwest Asia at IHG, said, "Since our strength lies in managing hotels, we will look at every region in India. We have identified many cities beyond the metros. We will look at hotels in primary, secondary and even tertiary cities as the future lies in smaller cities, which will eventually become the primary ones. If the opportunity arrives, we would also be interested in cities that are in the vicinity of golf courses to add more value to the property." He cited examples of cities like Pune and Chennai which have been faring well.

InterContinental is also looking at resort destinations apart from city hotels to develop its three brands in India: InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts and Holiday Inn Hotels. The group is currently in talks with leading hotel developers for its expansion plans.

As far as international strategies are concerned, IHG is expanding its limited service brand, Express by Holiday Inn, across one half of the world and will eventually come to India. However, Herrmann said, "But it is too early to say when."