IHG has signed a new 170-key Holiday Inn Express Cockburn, set to open in September, in partnership with Australian property development and construction giant, SKS Group.

The franchised property will form part of a new 13-level mixed-use development currently under construction, featuring a purpose-built hotel tower and separate residential tower, and strengthens IHG’s Western Australia pipeline.

“Midscale development continues to show remarkable resilience in the face of macroeconomic headwinds, which is underpinned by consistent demand and an efficient operating model,” IHG Director of Development Australasia and Pacific, Cameron Burke, exclusively told Wayfarer.

“As one of the world’s most trusted and scaled brands in the sector, Holiday Inn Express remains the market leader for delivering dependable performance for owners and a reliable stay for guests.”

Holiday Inn Express is the group’s fastest-growing essential brand, with more than 3,275 hotels open and 664 in the pipeline globally, including 11 open across Australasia and the Pacific.

Australian property development and construction group, SKS Group, with a diverse portfolio including residential, commercial and mixed-use projects, said choosing IHG has led to repositioning the development into a Holiday Inn Express.

“Our confidence in IHG’s ability to deliver strong commercial outcomes led us to reposition this development to Holiday Inn Express,” said SKS Group Chief Financial Officer, Eugene Lim.

“The brand’s proven track record, powerful distribution platform and compelling value proposition make it an ideal fit for both our investment strategy and this location. We’re looking forward to welcoming guests through our doors later this year.”

Located 26 kilometres south of the Perth CBD, the project is expected to service major economic drivers including the Australian Marine Complex and the Murdoch Medical Precinct.

“Holiday Inn Express Cockburn is a strategically important addition to IHG’s Western Australia portfolio,” said IHG Hotels and Resorts Managing Director, Australasia and Pacific, Matt Tripolone said.

“It’s a pleasure to partner with SKS Group on the development of its first Holiday Inn Express hotel in Australia – a collaboration that reflects our shared ambition to create long-term value and strengthen our presence in important growth markets.”