Garner hotels, the midscale conversion brand from IHG Hotels & Resorts, has reached a major milestone by opening 100 hotels globally since its launch in August 2023. With this, Garner has become the fastest scaling brand in IHG’s history, reflecting strong demand from both owners and travellers.

The brand’s growth has been driven by its flexible and conversion-friendly model, which allows properties to open quickly while maintaining quality standards. Garner is focused on delivering value through essential stay experiences, making it a practical choice for guests looking for comfort and affordability.

Looking ahead, the brand has a pipeline of nearly 80 hotels, which is expected to significantly expand its global presence. Currently, Garner has open or pipeline properties across 12 countries, including key markets such as the US, Mexico, Italy, and Japan.

A key factor behind this growth is the rising demand for conversion properties, which accounted for 52 percent of all IHG room openings in 2025. Garner’s model offers benefits such as lower costs, flexible design standards, and faster turnaround times, with some hotels opening just over a month after signing.

The brand is built around the idea of offering “easy going stays that get you on your way,” focusing on what matters most to guests. This includes comfortable rooms, quality sleep, and a good breakfast, along with practical features like workspaces for business and leisure travellers.

Karen Gilbride, Global Vice President for Garner hotels at IHG Hotels & Resorts, said:

“Garner’s initial global success reflects IHG’s proven expertise in building and scaling conversion-ready brands that owners and guests trust. Beyond offering a high-quality alternative for value-conscious travelers, Garner’s flexible development model allows the brand to more quickly enter new global markets and deliver returns for owners. Even as we’ve reached some amazing initial milestones, we’re just starting to tap into Garner’s full growth potential and look forward to introducing its unique offering to more owners and travelers in the years ahead.”

In the Americas, Garner recorded strong momentum with multiple signings and openings in 2025, including its first property in Mexico and new hotels across the United States. The brand has also entered suburban Boston and the greater New York City area in 2026.

Across Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Africa, Garner opened 43 hotels in 2025, making it the most active IHG brand in the region. A large part of this growth came from a partnership with NOVUM Hospitality in Germany. The brand also expanded into Italy, Türkiye, and the UK, while making its debut in Japan with multiple openings in Osaka and Kyoto.

Further expansion included its entry into Southeast Asia with a launch in Thailand, along with its first five signings in India. Garner is also set to expand into Greater China later this year, continuing its global growth journey.

With a strong pipeline and growing presence across regions, Garner is set to further strengthen its position as a fast-growing brand in the global hospitality market.

Etihad Guest has announced a 25% reduction in tier qualification requirements across all membership levels, making it easier for members to retain or upgrade their status within the programme.

Effective from 18 March, the revised thresholds are automatically applied to all Etihad Guest members worldwide. There is no need for registration or additional steps, and members can continue to progress within their existing 12-month qualification period under the updated criteria.

With this change, members can maintain their current tier or move to a higher level by earning fewer Tier Miles than before. The reduced qualification levels will remain applicable until 31 March 2027.

The move comes as part of the programme’s effort to offer more flexibility, especially for travellers whose plans may have been impacted in recent weeks. By lowering the requirements, Etihad Guest aims to support members in continuing their journey within the loyalty programme without added pressure.

Etihad Guest Tier Miles can be earned on flights operated by Etihad as well as select partner airlines across global networks. Members can redeem their Etihad Guest Miles for flight bookings, hotel stays, holiday packages, and products available through the Etihad Guest Reward Shop.

With this update, Etihad Guest continues to focus on making its loyalty programme more accessible and rewarding, while ensuring members can enjoy benefits even as travel plans evolve.

Elite Island Resorts has launched its latest campaign, “A Love Letter To Antigua,” inviting travellers and travel professionals to experience the island beyond just a resort stay. Designed for the summer season, the campaign focuses on Antigua’s rich culture, history, and scenic beauty through engaging and interactive storytelling.

The initiative brings together curated itineraries created in collaboration with content creators, along with a 360° interactive map that gives a closer look at the island. From cinematic visuals to detailed travel ideas, the campaign positions Antigua as an ideal summer destination for those seeking a well-rounded Caribbean experience.

The brand’s portfolio in Antigua includes a range of all-inclusive properties, each offering a distinct experience. Galley Bay Resort & Spa and Hammock Cove Antigua cater to adults looking for a peaceful escape, while Pineapple Beach Club Antigua and The Verandah Antigua offer lively beachfront settings. St. James’s Club & Villas adds a family-friendly touch with activities suited for all age groups. As part of the campaign, The Verandah Antigua is offering a “5th Night FREE” deal, valid for bookings made until May 31, 2026, for travel between May 1 and September 30, 2026.

A key highlight of the campaign is its interactive approach to travel planning. Through a social media series, content creators engage with audiences by allowing them to vote, ask questions, and shape their ideal itineraries. These journeys cover popular attractions such as Nelson's Dockyard, Devil's Bridge, rainforest trails, and local cultural events, helping travellers visualise their trip in a more personalised way.

The newly introduced 360° Antigua map further enhances this experience by showcasing all 365 beaches, natural harbours, cultural landmarks, and lesser-known spots across the island. With integrated videos and creator insights, the map offers a virtual preview of what travellers can expect before they even arrive.

Adding to this, Elite Island Resorts has also released a national parks video featuring Antigua’s protected landscapes. Narrated by Causion, widely known as the “Reggae Ambassador of Antigua,” the film captures stunning aerial views of the island’s coastline and landmarks, including areas around Devil's Bridge and Nelson's Dockyard National Park.

Beyond tourism, the resorts continue to stay closely connected with local communities. The Verandah Antigua supports sustainability by producing its own water, beer, and nursery resources on-site. Pineapple Beach Club contributes to literacy programs, supports schools, and runs a turtle sanctuary, while also promoting products from nearby village businesses like Granma Aki's hot sauce. Galley Bay Resort & Spa focuses on education and environmental efforts through scholarships, school support, and eco-friendly practices such as hydroponic farming, recycling, and wildlife protection in partnership with AB Sea Turtle Awareness.

"Antigua is a Caribbean gem unlike any other, offering a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture," says Kari Tarnowski, Chief Commercial Officer of Elite Island Resorts. "Through our community partnerships, regenerative tourism initiatives, creator-curated itineraries, and new 360° interactive island map, we are creating meaningful ways for travelers to experience Antigua through both its landscapes and the distinctive experiences our hotels provide. We want every guest to leave inspired, having discovered the heart of the destination, and eager to return."

With “A Love Letter To Antigua,” the brand encourages travellers to explore deeper, plan better, and truly connect with the destination.