Garner becomes IHG’s fastest growing brand in company history
Revealed at this week’s (Mar 16) Hunter Conference in Atlanta, Garner’s rapid expansion includes a global pipeline of almost 80 hotels that will nearly double its reach in the coming years.
IHG Hotels and Resorts’ Global Vice President for Garner hotels, Karen Gilbride, said Garner continues to drive value for guests and owners by focusing on important stay essentials while offering a flexible, conversion-friendly development model.
She said with open or pipeline properties in 12 countries, Garner continues to welcome guests in more key markets ranging from the US and Mexico to Italy and Japan.
Gilbride said the brand’s rising popularity among owners and developers stems from growing worldwide demand for conversion properties, which accounted for 52 percent of all IHG room openings in 2025.
She said a competitive cost-per-key ratio, flexible design standards, reduced pre-opening costs and accelerated turnaround process likewise have fueled its rapid growth, with some properties completing high-quality conversions in a little more than a month between signing and opening.
“Garner’s initial global success reflects IHG’s proven expertise in building and scaling conversion-ready brands that owners and guests trust,” she said.
“Beyond offering a high-quality alternative for value-conscious travellers, 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 travellers in the years ahead.”
Each property’s design celebrates the diversity of its home city, and thoughtful amenities prioritize what guests covet most, including comfortable beds, a sound night’s sleep and a great hot breakfast to start the day.
Across the Europe, Middle East, Asia and Africa (EMEAA) region, Garner opened the most hotels (43) of any IHG brand in 2025, largely driven by the initial transitions of an eventual 56 total open and pipeline properties in Germany, following a 2024 agreement with NOVUM Hospitality.