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Black Meetings & Tourism April/May 2009: www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 27 IHG ANNOUNCES OPENING OF $13 MILLION HOLIDAY INN® HOTEL Conversion Property is First Holiday Inn in New Orleans Market to Feature New Sign And Brand Standards as Part of the Worldwide Brand Relaunch IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) [LON:IHG, NYSE:IHG (ADRs)], the world's largest hotel group by number of rooms announced recently that the 181-room Holiday Inn New Orleans West Bank Tower has opened. The property is the first Holiday Inn in the New Orleans market to showcase the brand's new sign, which is the seal of approval that this hotel exemplifies the standards of the $1 billion brand relaunch program. First announced in 2007, the relaunch program was established to create a more contemporary brand image, increase quality and drive consistency. The global estate of more than 3,200 Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express properties is expected to be relaunched by the end of 2010. Elements of the Holiday Inn brand relaunch include: Redesigned Brand Signage An evolution of the iconic script logo, energizing the signature color green and eliminating the current shield shape for a more refreshed and contemporary look. Refreshed Guest Room New bedding that redefines the look and feel of each guest room with fresh, white triple-sheeting and pillows that come in two comfort levels: "soft" and "firm." An enhanced bathroom that features an improved showerhead offering superior pressure, as well as a signature shower curtain with curved rod and new amenities to deliver a consistent bath experience that feels fresh and contemporary. Warm Welcome A new signature arrival – including new lighting, landscap- ing and design features – that creates an energized and brand- ed sense of welcome that is universally recognizable. Customized music and scent selections also engage guests in a complete sensory experience, and a decluttered front desk to promote a more efficient and interactive check-in process. New Service Promise A best-in-class service culture – "Stay Real" – to further ensure the team develops the behaviors and skills to best serve guests so they feel like individuals and not numbers. Genuine people delivering real service. Leading the charge, will be a newly created position at each hotel – the Guest Experience Champion. "With 600 hotels relaunched globally, we're in the midst of one of the most exciting times for the Holiday Inn brand," said John Merkin, senior vice president, Brand Management, Holiday Inn Brands, The Americas. "The new sign at this hotel signifies changes inside and out that should make guests feel confident that they're going to experience fantastic service with a more up-to-date look." Situated in the New Orleans suburb of Gretna, the hotel underwent a complete renovation before converting to a Holiday Inn. The renovations included an overhaul of the building's exterior, including the replacement of all windows and a new roof, while still maintaining the unique round shape of the existing structure. The hotel's interior includes all- new furniture, carpet, bedding, tile, artwork and lighting. The property is just two miles from the historic French Quarter, the Louisiana Superdome and the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. The Jefferson Parish Government Complex, the Mississippi River and the Harvey Canal are also a short drive from the hotel. For more information call (504) 366-8535. porary styles with world-class design. With 21,000 sq. ft. of completely redesigned function space, a tropical outdoor terrace overlooking the pool and the hotel's 500-seat signature restau- rant China Grill, groups have varied event options to choose from in order to conduct busi- ness in a serene and comfortable environment. For more information call visit www.hil- on.com.