All change in Darwin: IHG out, Hilton in
Hilton has replaced IHG as the manager of four hotels in Australia’s Northern Territory.
The management agreement with BG Group of Hotels marks Hilton’s entry into the Northern Territory and the introduction of the DoubleTree by Hilton brand into Australia.
In a statement, IHG announced the Crowne Plaza Darwin, Holiday Inn Esplanade Darwin, Holiday Inn Darwin and Crowne Plaza Alice Springs hotels would leave the chain on May 1 after the company and owners BG Group agreed to end their long-standing relationship.
"While we are saddened by the end of a long relationship, IHG is confident of its future in Australia.
“We still have strong brand distribution across the country, and we will now actively pursue opportunities in Darwin – among other cities," said Phil Kasselis, IHG head of development, Australasia.
Ashley Spencer, vice president, operations, Australasia, Hilton Worldwide said: "We have been looking to enter into the Northern Territory for some time."
The BG Group of Hotels, owned and controlled by Ludvik Berger, has a portfolio of properties in Australia and Spain.
In addition to the four properties in the Northern Territory, BG Hotels own the Holiday Inn in Cairns and are currently negotiating the purchase of another significant property.
In Spain, BG Hotels own and operate three beachside hotels in Mallorca and two beachside hotels in Ibiza.
Ian Jarrett
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