Holiday Inn

What is Holiday Inn?

Holiday Inn is a renowned hotel brand under InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG), catering to both leisure and business travelers. Positioned in city centers, near airports, and major highways, it provides consistent and affordable lodging. With various sub-brands like Holiday Inn Express and Holiday Inn Resort, it offers a range of amenities and aims to create a comfortable, friendly environment for guests worldwide.

History

Holiday Inn was founded by Kemmons Wilson, an entrepreneur with a background in property investments. Before venturing into the hotel industry, Wilson had successfully invested in various property-related endeavors, amassing a small wealth.

Inspired by a family road trip in 1951, where he was disappointed by the quality and inconsistency of roadside accommodations, Wilson envisioned a chain of reliable and comfortable hotels. He aimed to create a consistent experience for travelers, where families could stay with an assurance of quality.

Wilson opened the first Holiday Inn in Memphis, Tennessee, in 1952, with standardized rooms and amenities. The name "Holiday Inn" was suggested by his architect, as a play on the 1942 musical film "Holiday Inn." The brand quickly gained popularity for offering quality service and uniformity at an affordable price, and by 1957, the chain had expanded to 23 locations across the United States. Wilson's previous experience in property allowed him to scale the business efficiently, and the brand continued to grow domestically and internationally.

Growth

After the initial success and expansion to 23 locations by 1957, Holiday Inn continued to thrive. The 1960s were a time of rapid growth, with the brand reaching the milestone of 100 hotels in 1964, and 500 by 1968. Their distinct highway signs became a recognizable symbol for travelers.

In the 1970s, Holiday Inn started focusing on international markets, making a significant push into Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East. The company's "Holidex" reservation system revolutionized the way bookings were made, enhancing efficiency and accessibility for customers.

By the 1980s, the brand had become the world's largest hotel chain, with over 1,700 properties across 50 countries. The decade also saw the introduction of new sub-brands like Holiday Inn Express, catering to budget-conscious travelers.

Facing increased competition in the 1990s, Holiday Inn underwent a significant rebranding effort, refreshing its image and updating facilities. In 1990, the UK's Bass Brewers acquired Holiday Inn, integrating the brand into its global hospitality portfolio.

In 2003, InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) acquired the brand, embarking on a further global expansion strategy and refining the brand's focus on family-friendly and business accommodations. A $1 billion relaunch in 2007 further modernized the Holiday Inn brand.

Where Are They Now?

Today, Holiday Inn continues to be a leader in the hotel industry, with over 1,200 locations across the globe. The brand has maintained its position by focusing on family-friendly offerings, technological advancements, and sustainable practices. Being part of IHG, one of the world's largest hotel companies, Holiday Inn continues to innovate and expand, providing travelers with dependable and comfortable accommodations.

Key Takeaways

1. Consistency and Innovation: Holiday Inn's success lies in its commitment to providing consistent quality and affordable lodging. Over the years, they have innovated their offerings to meet changing customer needs without losing sight of their core values.

2. Global Expansion and Diversification: The strategic growth into international markets and diversification into different hotel segments like Holiday Inn Express has allowed the brand to reach various customer segments globally.

3.Adaptation and Rebranding: Holiday Inn's ability to adapt to market trends and undertake significant rebranding efforts, especially under IHG, has kept the brand relevant and competitive in the evolving hospitality industry.