HANOI: IHG Hotels and Resorts, a global leader in the hospitality industry, has unveiled ambitious plans to expand its presence in Vietnam by increasing its portfolio from 16 hotels to more than 40 properties, bringing its room count from approximately 4,800 to 12,000.
This significant growth will include the addition of six new hotels by the end of next year, introducing two new brands to the market, and increasing its brand offerings in Vietnam from seven to nine.
Rajit Sukumaran, IHG’s senior vice-president and managing director (MD) for East Asia and Pacific, revealed the company’s expansion plans during a recent media briefing, adding that Vietnam is experiencing a surge in international travel, driven by new air routes connecting it with various cities across Asia.
Vietnam welcomed nearly 14 million visitors in the first 10 months of 2024, with projections to reach 18 million by year-end, a remarkable 41% increase from the previous year.
He emphasised the company’s commitment to Vietnam’s tourism growth.
Sukumaran said: “We are thrilled to see travel fully returning to Vietnam, a country rich in beautiful destinations.
“IHG is dedicated to growing alongside this market through strong partnerships and leveraging the expertise of our regional and global teams.”
IHG has steadily grown its presence in Vietnam’s luxury hotel sector over the past 17 years, beginning with the opening of the InterContinental Hanoi Westlake in 2007.
The group currently operates 10 luxury properties in eight destinations under its Six Senses, Regent Hotels and Resorts, and InterContinental Hotels and Resorts brands.
The company plans to further expand its Luxury and Lifestyle portfolio, with the debut of Vignette Collection in Hoi An and Hotel Indigo in Ho Chi Minh City.
The company’s leaders reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining its position as a leader in Vietnam’s luxury hotel sector, offering world-class tourism concepts and experiences.
Vivek Bhalla, MD for South-East Asia and South Korea at IHG, highlighted the growing demand for lifestyle and luxury brands in Vietnam, with the government working to attract wealthier tourists.
The Hanoi Department of Tourism is focused on expanding four-and five-star luxury hotels to meet this need.
He said: “There is significant long-term potential for Vietnam to attract high-end tourists seeking unique, personalised experiences, and the country is well-positioned to offer that.
“Local governments are also progressive in their efforts to target this consumer base.”
To appeal to this market, the government should prioritise upgrading tourist attractions, developing a skilled workforce, and accelerating digital transformation, Bhalla added.
Besides its luxury and lifestyle segment, IHG is also expanding its premium and mainstream hotel brands.
The company has five Crowne Plaza properties in the pipeline, alongside rapid growth for its premium brand, with Quang Bình Resort set to open soon.
The Holiday Inn family continues to drive growth for IHG, with plans for nine additional properties in Vietnam, adding to its existing locations in Saigon and Ha Tram.
The representative from IHG Hotels and Resorts shared that they see significant potential to introduce more midscale brands to the Vietnamese market, including new names such as Garner, Staybridge Suites, and Holiday Inn Express. — Viet Nam News/ANN
