IHG has strengthened its presence in the UK and Ireland by signing eight new hotels, adding more than 900 rooms across key locations, including Leeds, London, and Reading.

These latest additions span various brands, from the luxury Hotel Indigo to the premium Crowne Plaza, and the newly introduced Garner Hotels.

This expansion reflects IHG’s ongoing commitment to growth in its UK & Ireland market, which now boasts 362 open hotels and a pipeline of 25 more properties.

Expansion across multiple brands

The new signings will enhance IHG’s diverse brand portfolio, which includes Hotel Indigo, voco, Crowne Plaza, and the Garner Hotels collection. Garner Hotels, which debuted 18 months ago, marks its first presence in the UK&I with the recent signings of properties in Preston Samlesbury, Reading, and Nottingham.

These additions are expected to provide travellers with a mix of contemporary, stylish, and affordable options.

Among the notable new properties is the Hotel Indigo Leeds, set to open in 2025 following a full renovation. The hotel will occupy one of the oldest buildings in the city, providing a stylish stay for those seeking a central location.

Meanwhile, the voco brand also sees growth with the opening of voco London – Marylebone and voco Corby, both offering modern accommodations and amenities.

Conversion opportunities fuel growth

The rise in hotel conversions has played a significant role in IHG’s expansion strategy.

The company has placed a strong emphasis on converting existing properties, with notable conversions such as the Crowne Plaza East Midlands Airport and Garner Hotels in Preston and Reading.

 This approach is in response to a slowdown in new hotel developments since 2020, as highlighted in a report from Cushman & Wakefield, which also noted a surge in UK hotel investment by the end of 2024.

The ongoing interest in IHG’s established brands, such as Hotel Indigo and Holiday Inn Express, further demonstrates the appetite for quality, sustainable hotel options.

The Holiday Inn Express London – Woolwich, for example, will convert a five-storey office building into a 265-room hotel set to open in late 2029, offering a range of room types for guests in the Royal Borough of Greenwich.

Looking ahead: strong growth in the UK & Ireland

IHG’s UK & Ireland portfolio continues to grow, with a total of 362 hotels in operation and more properties planned for the coming years. The company is focused on sustainable growth in its home market, which is also its largest market in Europe.

The new signings are a testament to IHG’s strong position in the region and its commitment to meeting the evolving demands of both travellers and property owners.

As IHG continues to innovate with its brand offerings and expand its footprint, it remains well-positioned for long-term success across the UK and Ireland.