IHG, Coca-Cola enter strategic alliance

Two of the largest franchises in the hotel and beverage industry announced they have joined forces. InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) and Coca-Cola Company have entered into a multi-year agreement to provide Coca-Cola branded soft drinks and juices to IHG guests.

The alliance covers over 3,200 hotels in the U.S. across all IHG brands. Select Coca-Cola products will also be available for sale at IHG’s newest wellness hotel brand, EVEN Hotels.

IHG operates in nearly 100 countries worldwide.

The partnership aims to provide a consistent and recognizable beverage brand experience for all guests of  the IHG-branded hotels across the U.S.

“We look forward to leveraging our joint sustainability activities and marketing programs to inspire and refresh guests through unique, value-added programs,” said Bruce McDonald, vice president of Strategic Partnership Marketing at Coca-Cola North America.

Most of the beverage rollout is planned to be completed by the end of September 2014. 

IHG and Coca-Cola both say they have plans to grow their brand portfolios.

Coca-Cola is a leading beverage producer with international presence and over 500 brands of sparkling and still beverages. Its portfolio includes world-famous brands like Coca-Cola, Fanta, Sprite, Minute Maid and  glaceau vitaminwater.

IHG operates nine hotel brands, including Holiday Inn, InterContinental Hotels and Crowne Plaza. It has over 4,600 locations in nearly 100 countries worldwide, and another 1,000 hotels in development. IHG partners with some 2,000 franchisees in the U.S.