IHG signs agreement to expand franchise presence across Africa

InterContinental Hotels Group has signed a master development agreement with Aleph Hospitality to develop 10 franchise hotels across its brands in the midscale and upscale segments. The agreement was signed at this week's Africa Hotel Investment Forum in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The MDA will see IHG expand its presence in Africa across key countries such as Kenya, Ethiopia, Nigeria, Morocco, Algeria and Ghana.

The addition of new hotels, as a part of the agreement, will strengthen IHG’s portfolio in the continent, across six brands: Crowne Plaza, Voco, Hotel Indigo, Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express and Staybridge Suites.

“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,” said Pascal Gauvin, managing director, India, Middle East and Africa, IHG. “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 travelers looking for high-quality hospitality experiences.”

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.

IHG operates 29 hotels across six brands in Africa: InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, Six Senses, Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts, Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express and Staybridge Suites.