Development

IHG expands in Spain and Portugal

IHG Hotels & Resorts has signed 11 new properties across the Iberian Peninsula. 

The majority of the new signings are expected to open in 2022, with others anticipated in the coming years.

The announcement also means two brands are set to debut in Portugal: Staybridge Suites and Six Senses.

Southern Europe has become a favoured spot for growth from both a brand and investor perspective thanks to its high volume of leisure travellers. It is clearly becoming a bigger area of focus of IHG as well. At the same time as announcing the new signings, the company also said it had appointed a new development director for the region with Javier de Villanueva Baygual joining from BWH Hotel Group.

What They Said

Willemijn Geels, VP development, Europe at IHG Hotels & Resorts, said: "I am delighted to be announcing such a strong selection of signings across Iberia which is a stunning region with so much to offer all types of travellers. With Iberia being a key growth market for us, we are also excited to have appointed Javier de Villanueva Baygual as Development Director, Spain and Portugal. Javier brings extensive corporate and hospitality experience and will be based in-market and drive our continued investment and dedication into growing this market for IHG. Responsible growth remains a key priority for us in Europe in 2022, and this incredible selection of Iberian signings, in addition to Javier’s appointment, are a perfect start to the year."