IHG Hotels & Resorts is expanding its presence in one of its primary markets of France, with four new hotel signings and an opening. Situated on France’s coastline, the five-hotel collection of new properties bring three of IHG Hotels & Resorts’ brands to the region for the first time, including Staybridge Suites, Holiday Inn Express, Crowne Plaza and Hotel Indigo.
Expansion is a key strategic growth driver for IHG, according to the company, and the new signings in Cannes, Cagnes-sur-Mer, Arachon-La Teste and Marseilles further cement the company’s presence in continental Europe across multiple brand collections including Essentials, Premium, Suites and Luxury & Lifestyle.
The first of the new additions recently opened on the shores of Arcachon Bay, an inlet on France’s Southwest coast. Holiday Inn Express Arcachon—La Teste provides the perfect base from which to uncover the many delights of this revered region, according to the company. Many of the area’s beloved sites are located within 15 minutes of the hotel, including the Dune of Pilat, sunsoaked resort of Pyla-sur-Mer and a number of beaches.
The new signings are expected to open from this month onwards, with Hotel Indigo Cagnes-sur-Mer the first of the set scheduled to welcome guests. The new property takes inspiration from the local neighborhood. Comprising 87 rooms, seven of which are suites, this distinctly individual hotel brings an inviting, lively character to the seaside town of Cagnes-sur-Mer.
Scheduled to open in Spring 2022, Holiday Inn Express Ajaccio introduces the brand to the French island of Corsica. Comprising 71 rooms, the new hotel is designed with the modern business traveler in mind, but will also appeal to leisure guests. Providing contemporary workspaces, complimentary WiFi and breakfast as standard, the property meets the needs of those traveling for work, while seeking to enjoy Corsica’s sparkling coastline.
Those seeking a longer stay can enjoy an enhanced home-away-from-home experience when Staybridge Suites Cannes Centre opens in mid-2022. With amenities including a fully equipped kitchen in every suite, a dedicated outdoor space and a complimentary hot breakfast daily with signature offerings, Staybridge Suites combine the convenience of a hotel with the ambiance of a private apartment. The hotel’s many features include a fitness center, swimming pool and meeting room. The opening will be the brand’s debut in France.
IHG Hotels & Resorts will also expand Crowne Plaza’s presence in Southern France with the opening of Crowne Plaza Marseille Le Dôme. Expected to open in 2022, the hotel will provide a premium offering in one of Europe’s most picturesque port cities. The 147-room hotel will join the dual-branded Crowne Plaza Nice-Grand Arenas and Holiday Inn Express Nice—Grand Arenas, which opened in June.
“The recent wave of new signings and openings in France reflects the cautious optimism we at IHG Hotels & Resorts have for Europe’s recovery,” said Willemijn Geels, VP, development, Europe, IHG Hotels & Resorts. “France is a crucial market for us and the focus on its beautiful coastal region is an intentional step to grow our brands out of the cities and hubs, to regional settings where we can provide best-in-class properties for our guests.”
She continued, “Together with our owners and developers, we are continually seeking to mindfully expand our brands and invite more guests to experience the world with IHG Hotels & Resorts. We look forward to welcoming our IHG Reward members, repeat guests and new visitors to our new properties in France when they open throughout 2022.”
