IHG Celebrates 60 Years in Japan with Ambitious Growth Plans

IHG Celebrates 60 Years in Japan with Ambitious Growth Plans

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on October 7, 2024

IHG Hotels & Resorts (IHG) has recently celebrated their 60th anniversary in Japan, highlighting the company's longstanding relationship with the country and its plans for future growth. IHG first entered Japan in 1964 with the introduction of its InterContinental Hotels & Resorts brand, and since then has expanded through strong partnerships, bringing exceptional experiences to both domestic and international guests.

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According to Abhijay Sandilya, CEO of IHG ANA Hotels Group Japan and Managing Director of IHG Hotels & Resorts Japan & Micronesia, the company is "humbled and honored" to celebrate this milestone. He added that the company's growth is attributed to its collaborations with local owners and partners.

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In 2006, IHG entered a joint venture with ANA, Japan's largest airline, to form IHG ANA Hotels Group Japan, combining local and global expertise to expand its brand presence. This partnership has been a crucial element of IHG's success, helping to establish brand awareness in Japan and globally. Today, IHG has nearly 50 hotels in Japan and plans to double its size in the coming years.

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Sandilya noted, "We’re the second largest international hotel company in Japan, with close to 50 open hotels and 15 in the pipeline – and have big growth ambitions. We’re confident we’ll double our size over the next few years as we grow alongside the country’s travel and tourism industry."

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IHG has introduced new brands to Japan, including Six Senses, and has plans to debut other brands like Garner and Vignette Collection by the end of 2024. Regent is also expected to make its debut within the next three years. The expansion aims to cater to diverse guest preferences, with an emphasis on delivering quality experiences.

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The company is proud to celebrate its diamond anniversary in Japan and plans to continue its growth alongside the country's travel and tourism industry. IHG also recognizes its role in supporting the government’s tourism growth ambitions, using local expertise and global scale to introduce new customers to destinations across Japan, including those off the beaten path.

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To mark its 60th anniversary, IHG is offering various promotions at its hotels throughout Japan. More information about these offers is available on their official website, scheduled to go live on October 1, 2024.

Image Credits: IHG


Yen Dang Joins Alma Resort Cam Ranh as Director of Sales and Marketing

Yen Dang Joins Alma Resort Cam Ranh as Director of Sales and Marketing

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 19, 2025

Alma Resort Cam Ranh has appointed Yen Dang as its new Director of Sales and Marketing (DOSM). With over two decades of experience, Yen is known for her dynamic leadership and creative sales strategies in Vietnam’s hospitality sector.

She steps into the new role at Alma, an award-winning, 30-hectare beachfront resort on Vietnam's Cam Ranh peninsula, after serving as DOSM at Mercure Danang French Village Bana Hills. Her previous roles include DOSM at Movenpick Resort Cam Ranh, cluster director of sales at Mercure Vung Tau and ibis Styles Vung Tau, and DOSM during the pre-opening phase of Melia Cam Ranh Bay. She also held the position of director of sales (wholesale) at Novotel Phu Quoc Resort.

Yen began her career in 2005 as a sales secretary at MGallery La Veranda Resort and Spa in Phu Quoc Island and climbed the ladder to become assistant sales manager. She later held key roles at Novotel Halong Bay, Novotel Saigon Centre, and Pullman Danang Beach Resort.

A graduate in hospitality and tourism management from Ho Chi Minh City’s Van Lang University, Yen brings a strong background in sales leadership, market understanding, and team development.

In her new role at Alma, she will lead sales and marketing strategies across the resort’s key segments and report directly to Frederic Savoye, Alma’s chief commercial officer.

“Yen is a dynamic and creative professional with a wealth of experience with many leading international hotels from Vietnam's south to north,” said Alma’s managing director Herbert Laubichler-Pichler. “Her savvy in leading teams, drawing out each member's strengths, to not only hit but exceed budget places her in excellent stead with our Alma family.”


Sun Guangbin Joins World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance to Accelerate Asia’s Green Hospitality Transition

Sun Guangbin Joins World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance to Accelerate Asia’s Green Hospitality Transition

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 18, 2025

The World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance (the Alliance) has welcomed Mr. Sun Guangbin, Senior Vice President of JA Solar, as its new Senior Strategic Advisor for Asia. With over two decades of experience in renewable energy, international trade, and ESG governance, Mr. Sun brings a wealth of expertise that will support the Alliance’s mission to drive Net Positive transformation in the hospitality industry.

Mr. Sun’s journey began in 1997 with the China Chamber of Commerce for Import and Export of Machinery and Electronic Products (CCCME), where he played a pivotal role in international negotiations and policy advocacy for the solar sector. Since 2015, he has led key departments at JA Solar—ranging from strategic development and ESG to legal affairs and compliance—establishing himself as a champion of sustainability.

In addition to his corporate role, Mr. Sun holds several prestigious positions, including Vice Secretary General of the China Photovoltaic Industry Association (CPIA) and Chairman of the New Energy Committee under the China Association of Electric Power Education. He also contributes to the academic and policy space as a visiting professor and advisor to various energy think tanks.

As Senior Strategic Advisor to the Alliance, Mr. Sun will guide long-term planning, forge regional and global partnerships, and represent the Alliance at key renewable energy and hospitality platforms. His appointment is expected to boost the Alliance’s influence across Asia and accelerate its commitment to responsible and sustainable hospitality practices.

Glenn Mandziuk, CEO of the Alliance, said, “Mr. Sun’s appointment is a strategic leap forward for us. His deep cross-sectoral knowledge and vision will be instrumental in advancing our sustainability goals, especially across Asian markets.”

Expressing his excitement, Mr. Sun remarked, “I’m honoured to take on this role at such a critical time. I look forward to working with the Alliance to integrate renewable energy solutions and drive sustainability as a core pillar of growth for the hospitality industry across Asia.”

The World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance represents over 66,000 hotels, 300 brands, and more than 8 million rooms, collaborating with hospitality giants such as Hilton, Marriott, IHG, and Accor. With a network of over 100 partners, the Alliance is committed to uniting industry efforts to build a prosperous, sustainable future for hospitality worldwide.


S Hotels & Resorts Joins Global Hotel Alliance, Unlocking World-Class Benefits for Travellers

S Hotels & Resorts Joins Global Hotel Alliance, Unlocking World-Class Benefits for Travellers

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 17, 2025

S Hotels & Resorts, the international hospitality arm of Singha Estate, has joined hands with Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), becoming part of the GHA DISCOVERY loyalty programme, a renowned network of 45 independent hotel brands and 850 properties across 100 countries.

Starting July 2025, guests at SAii Laguna Phuket, SAii Phi Phi Island Village, SAii Koh Samui Villas, and Santiburi Koh Samui can experience the new SAii DISCOVERY programme, a local extension of the global GHA DISCOVERY platform. Members will enjoy perks like instant savings, complimentary room upgrades, early check-in, late check-out, and access to exclusive Local Experiences that connect them more meaningfully with their destination.

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This strategic alliance allows SHR properties to tap into a global base of 30 million loyalty members, increasing visibility, direct bookings, and access to data-driven guest insights. The collaboration also unlocks cutting-edge CRM and marketing tools under a shared platform.

The partnership aligns with S Hotels & Resorts’ sustainable ethos. Notably, SAii Laguna Phuket, SAii Phi Phi Island Village, and Santiburi Koh Samui are members of the GHA Green Collection, which features properties committed to reducing environmental impact and supporting local communities through eco-conscious operations.

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Michael Marshall, CEO of S Hotels & Resorts, shared, “Our inclusion in GHA DISCOVERY creates exciting new possibilities for both our guests and our brand. From better insights into guest preferences to higher direct revenue, it’s a win-win. Our guests gain access to DISCOVERY Dollars (D$) to redeem on stays, experiences, wellness, and dining across the GHA network.”

He added, “With just one app, travellers can explore 850 properties in 100 countries. The platform offers unmatched flexibility, personalised service, and member exclusives, making every trip more rewarding.”

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Chris Hartley, CEO of Global Hotel Alliance, welcomed the addition warmly: “We are thrilled to bring S Hotels & Resorts into the fold. The SAii and Santiburi properties add richness to our collection and reflect our shared commitment to sustainability, cultural immersion, and authentic guest experiences. We look forward to connecting these beautiful resorts with our global community.”

The partnership blends responsible travel, seamless digital convenience, and personalised hospitality, giving SAii DISCOVERY members the chance to enjoy global rewards while staying rooted in local charm.

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