IHG Hotels & Resorts is making significant strides in expanding its presence in the Balkans with the recent announcement of the Crowne Plaza Podgorica, marking the brand’s seventh hotel in Montenegro and the second one situated in the vibrant capital city. This new venture underscores IHG’s commitment to bolstering its footprint in a region that is becoming increasingly important for business and leisure travel alike. The hotel is a converted property owned by BIG CEE and is strategically located within the prestigious Capital Plaza mixed-use development. Expected to open its doors by the end of 2024, the 122-key hotel promises to blend modern amenities with the signature Crowne Plaza experience that caters to executive travelers and tourists seeking both productivity and relaxation.
The choice of location for Crowne Plaza Podgorica couldn’t be more strategic. Positioned at the heart of Podgorica’s bustling business district, the hotel is surrounded by the regional headquarters of major financial and multinational institutions such as Deloitte, PWC, and The World Bank. This proximity to global corporate hubs makes it a prime destination for business travelers who require convenient access to meetings and events. Capital Plaza itself is a landmark development in the city, encompassing not only commercial and office spaces but also luxurious residential properties, retail outlets, and high-end restaurants. Over the past decade, Capital Plaza has played a significant role in reshaping Podgorica’s urban identity, transforming it into a contemporary center for commerce, culture, and upscale living.
The new hotel is designed to cater to a variety of needs, featuring several meeting and event spaces to facilitate both corporate functions and social gatherings. Guests will enjoy a main restaurant located on the first floor, where local and international cuisine will be served in a sophisticated atmosphere. Additionally, a vibrant bar and a signature lounge on the ground and fifth floors respectively will provide perfect settings for unwinding after a busy day. This attention to detail reflects Crowne Plaza’s larger brand philosophy, focusing on purposeful design that offers flexibility and comfort. The addition of Crowne Plaza Podgorica, alongside the upcoming 93-room Crowne Plaza Kolasin slated for launch in the latter half of 2025, signals IHG’s intent to nurture a diverse portfolio of high-quality hotels across Montenegro.
Crowne Plaza is known globally as one of the world’s largest premium hotel brands, renowned for delivering exceptional hospitality services aimed at business and leisure travelers alike. The brand places a strong emphasis on creating environments where guests can seamlessly blend work and relaxation. Its hotels typically feature adaptable spaces designed for meetings, conferences, and social events without compromising on comfort or style. By expanding in Podgorica, Crowne Plaza not only strengthens its position within Montenegro but also contributes to its broader ambitions in Europe. IHG aims to operate 100 Crowne Plaza hotels across the continent by 2025, enhancing its ability to serve travelers who prioritize convenience, connectivity, and quality experiences.
An interesting dimension to this expansion is IHG’s strategic focus on conversion projects, which entails repurposing existing properties into branded hotels. Willemijn Geels, Vice President of Development for Europe at IHG Hotels & Resorts, emphasized the popularity of such opportunities across the continent. She pointed out that these conversion projects are especially attractive to property owners and investors who want to leverage the growing demand for quality hospitality in prime locations. Additionally, IHG’s IHG One Rewards program plays a crucial role in this strategy by fostering loyalty among frequent travelers and providing added value to hotel owners. The collaboration with BIG CEE on Crowne Plaza Podgorica exemplifies how trusted partnerships and innovative development approaches are helping IHG realize its vision for growth in the Balkans and beyond.
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