Greater China: Holiday Inn Marks 50 Years

Holiday Inn Marks 50 Years in Greater China, Introduces Next-Generation Brand Update

IHG Hotels & Resorts has marked 50 years of the Holiday Inn brand in Greater China with the release of a commemorative brand book and the introduction of its next-generation brand evolution. The initiatives conclude a year-long anniversary programme while outlining the brand’s direction for the years ahead.

As IHG’s first international hotel brand in the region, Holiday Inn has played a sustained role in the development of Greater China’s hospitality market. The anniversary milestone reflects both the brand’s long-standing presence and its continued focus on adapting to changing guest expectations.

Daniel Aylmer, CEO of IHG Greater China, said the brand has evolved alongside shifts in consumer behaviour and market dynamics over the past five decades. He noted that the next-generation Holiday Inn introduces a refreshed, more contemporary expression of the brand. At the same time, future growth will focus on strengthening its presence in major cities and expanding into emerging markets across the region.

Five Decades of Presence in Greater China

Holiday Inn’s journey in Greater China began in 1975 with the opening of Holiday Inn Golden Mile Hong Kong, which laid the foundation for the brand’s regional expansion. Since then, the brand has accompanied generations of travellers, becoming a familiar name within the region’s hotel landscape.

To mark the 50th anniversary, Holiday Inn undertook a series of initiatives, including appointing actress Cecilia Yip as brand ambassador, producing short films based on real guest stories, a themed exhibition tour across the country, and interactive hotel experiences. These activities highlighted the brand’s long-standing relationship with guests and local communities.

Commemorative Brand Book

The Greater China 50th-Anniversary Commemorative Brand Book brings together stories from guests, employees, and hotel owners who have contributed to Holiday Inn’s development in the region. Featuring personal memories and photographs from properties across Greater China, the book documents shared experiences and everyday moments that have shaped the brand. It will be made available at Holiday Inn hotels across the region.

Introducing the Next-Generation Holiday Inn

In celebration of the anniversary, Holiday Inn has introduced its next-generation brand evolution under the proposition “The Brighter Side of Travel.” This update includes refreshed staff uniforms, updated service rituals centred on the brand’s signature smile, and the rollout of the Holiday Inn 3.0 product concept.

The next-generation design focuses on connection and functionality. Public areas, particularly lobby lounges, have been redesigned as multi-purpose social spaces combining dining, drinks, and interactive zones. Design elements such as the Smile Wall, created using sustainable materials and local cultural references, reinforce brand identity while reflecting regional character.

Guestrooms have also been updated with clearer functional zoning, smart room controls, height-adjustable desks, and family-oriented features, including sofa beds and double vanities. These changes aim to support a more practical and comfortable stay experience.

Looking Ahead

With more than 250 hotels open and in the pipeline across Greater China, Holiday Inn continues to expand its footprint while building on its established heritage. Through its next-generation brand update, the company is positioning Holiday Inn to remain relevant to a broad range of travellers while maintaining its long-standing role as a familiar travel companion in the region.