Intercontinental Hotel Group has announced plans for a new health and wellness themed hotel brand. Called Even, the planned hotels will have en suite exercise facilities and a focus on keeping fit and healthy. Initially planned for the US, the first hotels are set to open in 2013 and the new brand comes in response to market research, which suggests a demand for 'healthier travel'.

“We are so confident in the Even brand that we are committing a capital investment of up to USD 150 million over the next 3 years in order to deliver growth and profitability for EVEN Hotels,” said Intercontinental Hotel Group (IHG) CEO Richard Solomons. IHG expects the new brand to help win greater market share in the US and plans both new hotel builds and conversions for the healthy hotel chain. “We expect to sign contracts for 100 Even Hotels within the next five years,” said IHG Americas President Kirk Kinsell.

As well as in room exercise facilities, the new hotels will have extensive gyms, and “Wellness Walls,” near to rooms. Healthy food options and fitness advice to guests will also be available.

IHG operates several global hotel brands, including Crowne Plaza and Holiday Inn. The group owns, runs or is associated with over 4,400 hotels in nearly 100 countries and territories. in Romania, the group runs Intercontinental and Crown Plaza hotels in capital Bucharest.

Liam Lever, liam@romania-insider.com

(photo source: IHC)