IHG Hotels & Resorts (IHG) has announced the introduction of its Garner brand to Southeast Asia, with the first property in the region – Garner Hotel Pattaya Central – set to open later this year on Thailand’s eastern seaboard.

The new signing represents a major step for IHG’s fast-expanding midscale conversion brand. Since its launch in 2023, Garner has grown to 51 operational hotels across markets including Japan, the United States and Germany, alongside 87 projects in the pipeline.

Developed in partnership with Nova Park Company Limited, Garner Hotel Pattaya Central will initially open with 153 rooms and suites in the first phase. The property will showcase the brand’s signature modern design and residential-style service approach.

Positioned to deliver comfort and convenience, each Garner hotel emphasises the essentials travellers value most – from free Wi-Fi and quality beds to freshly ground coffee and light snacks available at the Garner Shop.

Vivek Bhalla, Managing Director, South East Asia & Korea, IHG Hotels & Resorts, said: “We’re excited to introduce our rapidly growing Garner brand to Southeast Asia. Thailand has historically been a market where we have launched brands in the region, and we look forward to welcoming guests to Garner Hotel Pattaya Central this year.

“This agreement strengthens IHG’s leading position in the mainstream segment which includes our well-loved Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express brands. We are thrilled to extend our excellent relationship with Nova Park Company Limited on this second project, which follows our success with Holiday Inn Express Pattaya Central. As a leading developer with over 20 projects in the Pattaya area, Nova Park Company Limited is the ideal partner to help us bring Garner, our fast-growing midscale brand, to life in the region.”

Eli Fineman, Director, Nova Group, added: “Pattaya is a key tourism hub in Thailand and a gateway to the Eastern Economic Corridor. Alongside the investment in new tourism products and experiences, the launch of the first Garner property with Garner Hotel Pattaya Central will complement upcoming developments in this thriving destination.

“The hotel represents our continued commitment to supporting travel and tourism in Pattaya. By leveraging our great relationship with IHG, we’re offering guests a high quality, distinct experience at a great price point as they explore the wonders of the city.”

IHG’s recent performance highlights the growing role of conversions in its expansion strategy. Quick-to-market conversions accounted for about 57% of its global room openings in the first half of 2025. In Southeast Asia, conversions made up over a third of signings and around a quarter of openings during the same period – reflecting rising demand among owners for faster access to IHG’s enterprise platform and distribution channels.

With three-quarters of IHG’s system size anchored in the mainstream segment, the arrival of Garner in Southeast Asia is expected to further enhance its offering for owners seeking stronger returns in the midscale market, while delivering affordable, quality stays for travellers.

Located an hour from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport and 90 minutes from central Bangkok, Pattaya remains one of Thailand’s busiest tourist hubs, known for its beaches, nightlife and shopping. Garner Hotel Pattaya Central will feature an all-day dining restaurant, swimming pool, fitness centre and DIY laundry facilities.

The opening will mark IHG’s fourth property in Pattaya, joining InterContinental Pattaya Resort, Holiday Inn Pattaya and Holiday Inn Express Pattaya Central. In Thailand, IHG currently operates 40 hotels with a further 41 in development.