IHG reaches milestone of 1,000 hotels across Europe - Get updated on what's happening in tourism!

IHG Hotels & Resorts has surpassed 1,000 operating hotels across Europe, marking a significant milestone in the group's regional expansion. Over the past three years, the company has added more than 210 properties to its European portfolio, representing net system growth of over 25%. The announcement follows a record year for hotel openings and development agreements in 2025.

The expansion spans several market segments, from luxury and lifestyle hotels to premium accommodation and established mainstream brands. Since the beginning of 2024, IHG has recorded 36 first-time openings for individual brands in European countries, excluding its recently acquired Ruby portfolio. These brand debuts include destinations such as Iceland, Sweden and Greece, reflecting the group's efforts to broaden its geographical presence.

Further growth is already planned. IHG currently has more than 280 hotels in its European development pipeline, comprising both newly constructed properties and conversions of existing buildings. The company is also diversifying its brand portfolio through the acquisition of Ruby, an urban lifestyle hotel brand, and the introduction of Noted Collection, its 21st brand. The latter has already secured seven hotel agreements worldwide.

New openings across European cities

Recent additions illustrate the different segments driving IHG's expansion. In London, The Hari has joined Vignette Collection, bringing an 85-room luxury property to Belgravia. Located close to Knightsbridge and Hyde Park, the hotel combines a residential atmosphere with access to the British capital's cultural and shopping districts.

Vignette Collection now operates 13 hotels across Europe, with another 16 properties in development. The brand is among IHG's fastest-growing luxury collections and forms part of its strategy to expand through distinctive, independently styled hotels.

In France, Ruby Lilou Hotel Marseille marks the Ruby brand's entry into the market. Situated between the historic Vieux Port and La Joliette, the property combines contemporary interiors with communal spaces and a rooftop terrace. Its location connects visitors with Marseille's waterfront, cultural attractions and business districts.

Another recent opening is Crowne Plaza Vienna in the Austrian capital's Margareten district. Designed by architect David Chipperfield, the 195-room hotel draws inspiration from the Austrian National Library and incorporates contemporary design alongside sustainability considerations.

Crowne Plaza now has 98 operating hotels across Europe, with another 21 properties in development. The brand continues to target business travellers, leisure guests and visitors combining professional and personal travel.

Brand expansion and conversions drive growth

IHG's European strategy increasingly combines established hotel brands with newer concepts aimed at specific traveller preferences. The acquisition of Ruby strengthens its position in the urban lifestyle segment, while Noted Collection adds another option to the group's portfolio.

Hotel conversions are an important component of this approach. Alongside new developments, they allow IHG to expand its presence through existing properties, including hotels that join one of the group's brands while retaining elements of their individual identity.

Karin Sheppard, Senior Vice President and Managing Director Europe at IHG Hotels & Resorts, described the milestone as evidence of sustained regional momentum and the confidence of hotel owners and guests.

“We are purposefully scaling our portfolio by growing new and established brands in priority markets, supported by sustained investment in our enterprise,” Sheppard said.

The company also points to the importance of its IHG One Rewards loyalty programme, which has more than 160 million members worldwide. The programme connects the group's different hotel brands and supports customer retention across destinations and market segments.

Europe remains a central region for international tourism. According to figures cited by IHG from UN Tourism, the continent welcomed approximately 793 million international arrivals in 2025, accounting for more than half of worldwide international tourist arrivals.

For IHG, the combination of established tourism demand, new hotel concepts and a substantial development pipeline provides the basis for further expansion. With more than 280 European properties awaiting opening, the group expects its regional hotel network to continue growing beyond the 1,000-property milestone.

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