What's Happening?
IHG Hotels & Resorts has announced the conversion of the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Queenstown into a voco-branded property. This transformation is in partnership with Pro-invest Group, the asset owner, developer, and manager. The 227-room hotel, operated by EVT Connect Hospitality, is strategically located in the heart of Queenstown, close to the lakefront and popular dining and retail areas. The conversion aims to align the hotel's prime location and performance with a premium brand proposition. The refurbishment will include upgraded meeting spaces, a new private dining room, outdoor dining areas, and a new restaurant and bar named Mozzarella & Co. These enhancements are designed to broaden the hotel's appeal across both leisure and corporate
segments, supporting sustained long-term performance.
Why It's Important?
The conversion of the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Queenstown to a voco-branded property signifies a strategic repositioning in the hospitality industry, particularly in a high-demand market like Queenstown. This move is expected to leverage IHG's brand strength and commercial capabilities to maximize value and support sustainable returns. The transition to a premium brand like voco is likely to attract a broader clientele, enhancing the hotel's competitive edge in a market known for its strong year-round visitation and international profile. This development reflects a growing trend in the hospitality sector where established properties are being repositioned to meet evolving consumer preferences for luxury and premium experiences.
What's Next?
The voco Queenstown is set to reopen later in 2026 following the completion of its refurbishment. The transition will integrate the property into IHG's enterprise platform, including global distribution, sales, and the IHG One Rewards loyalty program. This integration is expected to enhance the hotel's market reach and operational efficiency. As the refurbishment progresses, stakeholders such as Pro-invest Group and EVT Connect Hospitality will likely focus on marketing strategies to attract both leisure and corporate guests. The success of this conversion could influence similar strategic repositionings in other high-demand tourist destinations.
