5 Reasons Why InterContinental Hotels Group Is Ripe for an Acquisition
Photo Credit: A meeting room at the newly reopened InterContinental New York Barclay hotel. The hotel's parent company, IHG, recently denied rumors it was in talks with Anbang Insurance Group regarding a possible sale. InterContinental Hotels Group
Skift Take
The idea that being bigger is better in the hospitality industry is one that isn’t going away anytime soon. IHG, whether it might be the target of an acquisition or an acquirer, is in a solid position for both scenarios. And the company could probably use a bit of a jolt in terms of innovation and global growth.
When news leaked over the weekend that China’s Anbang Insurance Group (yes, the same Anbang that attempted to buy Starwood for close to $14 billion earlier this year) was considering a $9.12 billion purchase of London-based InterContinental Hotels Group, it immediately reignited discussion about further consolidation in the hospitality industry.
IHG declined to comment on the rumors and Anbang Insurance Group issued a statement denying the reports: “Anbang has no plans to make a bid and is not considering an offer for InterContinental.”
Regardless of whether Anbang is eyeing IHG, however, there’s a case to be made for why IHG would be a solid investment. The company has been at the center of merger and acquisition conversations for some time now.
Here’s a look at a few of the reasons why IHG would make a favorable acquisition for the likes of an investor like Anbang Insurance Group or another hotel company, as well as why IHG might also be in a good position to acqu
