IHG Signs Deal for First Garner Hotel in Türkiye, Set to Open in 2025

IHG Signs Deal for First Garner Hotel in Türkiye, Set to Open in 2025

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on September 30, 2024

IHG Hotels & Resorts has announced the signing of its first Garner-branded hotel in Türkiye. The project comes under a franchise agreement with FRT Turizm, with support from AB Consulting led by Ahmet Bilgin. Set to open in 2025, the hotel will feature 126 guest rooms spread across four separate buildings and will be located near the International Istanbul Airport, one of the world’s busiest airports.

This franchise agreement comes just a month after IHG introduced the Garner brand to the Turkish market during its Turkish Investor Day. Garner, a midscale conversion brand, focuses on offering comfortable, relaxed stays at affordable prices while providing guests with essential amenities in convenient locations.

Garner has quickly gained popularity with hotel owners worldwide due to its flexible design standards, which accommodate different footprints, and its ability to minimize pre-opening costs. The brand allows investors to move swiftly from conversion to operational status, making it a highly attractive option in the midscale space. To date, Garner has seen 79 signings and four hotel openings globally.

Each Garner property benefits from IHG’s extensive support, including digital services, a global sales organization, award-winning distribution systems, and the IHG One Rewards loyalty program, which has over 130 million members. These resources help investors maximize returns and ensure operational efficiency throughout the hotel’s lifecycle.

Willemijn Geels, Vice President of Development for Europe at IHG Hotels & Resorts, expressed optimism about the brand’s expansion, stating, “With the first Garner hotel being signed just a month after we introduced the brand to our Turkish investors, it is promising to see the continued confidence our owners have in IHG’s brands. This remarkable achievement would not have been possible without our trusting relationship with FRT Turizm and the support of Ahmet Bilgin and his company AB Consulting.”

The new Garner hotel will be an ideal location for transient travelers, thanks to its proximity to the new Istanbul International Airport, which welcomes over 64 million passengers annually. The brand’s promise of “easy-going stays that get you on your way” aligns perfectly with the needs of travelers in such a busy area.

FRT Turizm board members Fırat Çelebi and Vedat Çelebi added, “Hearing about the Garner brand during IHG’s Investor Day, we knew it would seamlessly fit into our location in Arnavutkoy. We look forward to welcoming travelers to the first Garner in Türkiye once we open our doors next year and becoming the first choice for all transit guests looking for a quick, convenient stay before heading to the airport.”

Türkiye continues to be an important market for IHG, where it currently operates 31 hotels across five brands, including Six Senses, InterContinental, Crowne Plaza, and the Holiday Inn brand family. The company also has a robust development pipeline, with 12 more properties expected to open in the coming years.


Essentia Hotels & Resorts Expands Footprint with Upcoming Nagpur Property

Essentia Hotels & Resorts Expands Footprint with Upcoming Nagpur Property

By Hariharan U

Published on April 16, 2026

Essentia Hotels & Resorts is set to expand its growing portfolio with a new property in Nagpur, marking its entry into one of Central India’s emerging hospitality markets.

Known for its thoughtfully curated hospitality experiences, Essentia aims to introduce a property that blends contemporary elegance with functional design. The upcoming hotel is envisioned to cater to both business and leisure travellers, offering a refined yet welcoming stay experience aligned with modern expectations.

Often regarded as the heart of India, Nagpur is steadily evolving into a dynamic urban centre where cultural heritage meets modern development. With its serene lakes, spiritual landmarks, and historical attractions, the city presents a balanced mix of vibrancy and calmmaking it an attractive destination for both corporate and leisure travel.

Bringing its signature philosophy of “distinctive destination experience” to the city, Essentia’s new property will focus on combining contemporary sensibilities with intuitive service. The development aims to create a space that reflects comfort, sophistication, and attention to detail, while remaining rooted in a deep understanding of evolving guest preferences.

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Commenting on the expansion, Mohammed Parvez said, “Nagpur represents a compelling growth story, and we are delighted to be part of its evolving narrative. Our vision has always been to create destinations that resonate with their surroundings while offering a sense of familiarity and comfort that today’s travellers seek.”

With this move, Essentia continues to align its growth strategy with emerging Indian cities that are redefining the country’s hospitality landscape. The Nagpur property is expected to reflect the brand’s commitment to “Affordable Luxury,” delivering thoughtfully designed spaces, sincere service, and meaningful guest experiences.

Founded in 2018 under the aegis of Aaverina Hospitality Private Limited and headquartered in Bengaluru, Essentia Hotels & Resorts has been steadily building a reputation for delivering contemporary hospitality experiences rooted in design, service, and human connection.


Novotel Hyderabad Airport Secures Green Key Renewal for Third Consecutive Year

Novotel Hyderabad Airport Secures Green Key Renewal for Third Consecutive Year

By Hariharan U

Published on April 15, 2026

Novotel Hyderabad Airport has successfully renewed its Green Key Certification for the third consecutive year, reaffirming its long-term commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainable hospitality. The hotel also holds the distinction of being the first in South India and the third in the country to receive this globally recognised eco-label.

Unlike one-time accolades, the Green Key renewal demands consistent year-on-year progress across key sustainability metrics. From energy efficiency and water conservation to waste management and community engagement, the certification reflects measurable impact and continuous improvement.

At the core of the hotel’s approach is a structured sustainability framework that integrates eco-conscious practices into daily operations, infrastructure, and guest experiences. Over time, the property has implemented several impactful initiatives to reduce its environmental footprint.

Energy efficiency measures include the use of 100% non-CFC coolants for air conditioning and the installation of over 6,000 LED bulbs across the property. Solar energy plays a significant role, with 200 solar panels powering water heating systems to meet the building’s requirements.

Water conservation remains a major focus area. With 1,500 aerators installed, the hotel saves up to 10,000 litres of water daily. Rainwater harvesting systems contribute to groundwater recharge, while treated water from the in-house sewage treatment plant is reused for landscaping, accounting for nearly 140 kilolitres per day.

The hotel has also embraced circular, low-waste practices. Its in-house water bottling plant using glass bottles helps eliminate nearly 30,000 plastic bottles each month. Organic waste is converted into manure for a 2,500 sq. ft. herb garden, which supports the hotel’s culinary operations and is maintained using recycled water.

In line with greener mobility, the property offers EV charging infrastructure and electric vehicles for guest transport, along with eco-friendly cycling options that encourage low-impact exploration.

Commenting on the milestone, Sukhbir Singh, General Manager, Novotel Hyderabad Airport, said, “Securing the Green Key renewal for the third year is a strong validation of our team's consistent work behind the scenes. At Novotel Hyderabad Airport, sustainability is part of how we design systems, manage resources, and engage with guests. Each year, we aim to refine our practices and create a hospitality environment that is efficient, responsible, and built for the long term.”

As sustainability continues to shape global hospitality standards, Novotel Hyderabad Airport remains focused on aligning its operations with evolving environmental expectations, demonstrating that guest comfort and long-term ecological responsibility can go hand in hand.


IHCL Expands Footprint with Gateway Kandla, Gandhidham Opening

IHCL Expands Footprint with Gateway Kandla, Gandhidham Opening

By Hariharan U

Published on April 15, 2026

Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) has announced the opening of Gateway Kandla, Gandhidham, marking a significant addition to Gujarat’s evolving hospitality landscape. Spread across 17 acres, the hotel is positioned as a tranquil green retreat catering to both business and leisure travellers.

Highlighting the strategic importance of the location, Leah Tata, Vice President & Brand Leader, Gateway Hotels & Resorts, IHCL, noted that Gandhidham serves as a key urban hub supporting maritime trade and regional commerce. She added that the hotel is well placed to meet the rising demand driven by the region’s economic growth.

The 93-key property blends regional design influences with contemporary comfort. Surrounded by landscaped lawns and fountains, the hotel offers thoughtfully designed rooms that reflect local character while delivering a relaxed stay experience.

Dining at the hotel is anchored by Urban Masala, the all-day multi-cuisine restaurant that brings together local specialities and global favourites, along with chef-curated signature dishes. Guests can also enjoy a range of leisure amenities including a swimming pool, fitness centre, and spa.

For social and corporate gatherings, the hotel features versatile indoor and outdoor event spaces, making it suitable for celebrations, conferences, and business meetings alike.

Sandeep Makroo, General Manager, Gateway Kandla, Gandhidham, shared, “We look forward to welcoming guests to Gateway Kandla, Gandhidham and delivering a stay defined by comfort and warm hospitality.

With proximity to key attractions such as Rann of Kutch, Vijay Vilas Palace, and Mandvi Beach, the hotel also offers travellers an entry point to explore the cultural and natural richness of the region.

As part of IHCL’s expansive portfolio, the Gateway brand continues to strengthen its presence across emerging destinations, offering full-service hotels that combine comfort, accessibility, and authentic hospitality experiences.

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