Holiday Inn Marks 50 Years in Greater China and Introduces Its Next-Generation Brand Evolution

International

With the launch of a commemorative brand book and a refreshed brand direction, Holiday Inn celebrates five decades in Greater China while opening a new chapter focused on connection, warmth, and contemporary travel experiences

Holiday Inn, part of IHG Hotels & Resorts, has concluded its year-long 50th anniversary celebrations in Greater China with the release of a commemorative brand book and the unveiling of its next-generation brand evolution. The milestone marks half a century since the brand first entered the region and signals a forward-looking transformation designed to meet the expectations of an increasingly diverse and dynamic traveller base.

The anniversary initiative reflects both continuity and change: honouring the brand’s long-standing presence in Greater China while redefining how Holiday Inn expresses hospitality in the years ahead.

Fifty years of heartfelt hospitality in Greater China

Holiday Inn’s journey in Greater China began in 1975 with the opening of Holiday Inn Golden Mile Hong Kong, IHG’s first international hotel brand in the region. Since then, the brand has accompanied generations of travellers, growing alongside the rapid development of the hospitality sector across Greater China.

Throughout its anniversary year, Holiday Inn highlighted this shared history through a series of initiatives, including the appointment of acclaimed actress Cecilia Yip as Brand Ambassador, the release of short films inspired by real guest stories, and a nationwide themed exhibition tour. Interactive experiences at participating hotels further brought the brand’s heritage and values to life.

Central to the anniversary is the Greater China 50th-Anniversary Commemorative Brand Book. Featuring authentic stories from guests, colleagues, and hotel owners, the publication captures personal memories and moments from Holiday Inn properties across the region. Designed as a tribute to the people who have shaped the brand, the book will soon be available in Holiday Inn hotels throughout Greater China, offering guests a new way to engage with the brand’s history.

Daniel Aylmer, CEO of IHG Greater China, said: “As the first international hotel brand IHG introduced to Greater China, Holiday Inn has accompanied guests with a sincere smile for fifty years. We have witnessed profound changes in both the market and consumer expectations and have continued to refresh our products for an increasingly diverse audience. The introduction of the next-generation Holiday Inn marks the beginning of a dynamic new phase. Looking ahead, we will strengthen our presence in key cities, expand into emerging markets and engage new consumers, lighting up every journey with sincerity and innovation.”

A reimagined Holiday Inn for today’s travellers

Alongside its anniversary celebrations, Holiday Inn has introduced a new brand proposition, “The Brighter Side of Travel”, accompanied by a comprehensive evolution of its product and guest experience. This transformation spans refreshed staff uniforms, updated service rituals anchored in the brand’s signature smile, and the rollout of the Holiday Inn 3.0 product concept.

The next-generation Holiday Inn design places “connection” at its core, aiming to create stays that feel more social, intuitive and uplifting. Public spaces have been rethought, with lobby lounges redesigned as vibrant, multi-purpose areas that combine light dining, drinks and interactive zones. A newly introduced Smile Wall, crafted from sustainable materials and reflecting local cultural elements, reinforces the brand identity while creating an inviting atmosphere.

Guestrooms have also been enhanced, with improved functional layouts, smart controls, height-adjustable desks and family-friendly configurations such as double vanities and sofa beds. Together, these changes are intended to deliver warmer, more connected and memorable stays for guests, while supporting owners and colleagues through efficient and flexible design.

Looking ahead

Today, Holiday Inn operates more than 250 hotels open or in the pipeline across Greater China. Rooted in strong brand heritage and local expertise, the brand continues to position itself as a trusted travel companion, combining familiarity with renewed energy. As it enters its next chapter, Holiday Inn aims to build on five decades of experience while shaping a brighter, more connected future for travellers across the region.