AFRICA – InterContinental Hotels Group Plc (IHG) has signed a Master Development Agreement (MDA) with Aleph Hospitality that will enable it to increase its network in Africa.
Through the agreement, ten franchise hotels will be developed across IHG’s portfolio of brands in midscale and upscale segments.
The key countries targeted in the expansion include Kenya, Ethiopia, Nigeria, Morocco, Algeria and Ghana.
The addition of new hotels, as a part of the agreement, will solidify IHG’s position as one of the leading hospitality players in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region and will strengthen IHG’s portfolio in the continent, across six brands including Crowne Plaza, Voco, Hotel Indigo, Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express and Staybridge Suites.
With a portfolio comprising nine hotels across five countries on the continent and plans to expand to 35 hotels across the MEA region by 2025, Dubai-based Aleph Hospitality manages hotels directly for owners.
Speaking on the announcement, Pascal Gauvin, Managing Director, India, Middle East and Africa, IHG said: “We are delighted to sign this agreement with Aleph Hospitality, which will add a significant number of rooms across our portfolio of brands in the African continent.
“Key markets across Africa continue to see solid growth in tourism key performance indicators and we remain optimistic of the long-term potential for the hospitality sector. The increasing number of international guests will drive a surge in demand for world-class accommodation and these new properties will cater to the needs of travellers looking for high-quality hospitality experiences.”
Bani Haddad, Managing Director, Aleph Hospitality said: “This signing presents us with opportunities to further enhance and diversify our portfolio in Africa, and we are excited to partner with a globally renowned company such IHG to grow further in the region.
“With a strong distribution system, preferred brands and a top loyalty programme, IHG is known to deliver commercial success in collaborations with its owners and partners, and we look forward to successfully working together to open these hotels and offer exceptional experiences to suit a variety of travellers coming to this region.”
The Dubai-based company manages hotels directly for owners and leverages its in-depth market knowledge and extensive experience of working with the world’s largest hotel companies to generate superior returns for hotel owners.
