Second Voco for UK from IHG opens in Solihull

Previously operating as an independent property, the 180-bedroom Voco St John's, Solihull, will be managed by Kew Green Hotels following the signing of a franchise agreement with the hotel's owner, CL Capital. It joins the first Voco in the UK, the Voco St David's, Cardiff.

The hotel, which features 13 event spaces and a health club with indoor swimming pool, has recently undergone a major refurbishment to introduce Voco's "bold and distinctive interior design".

Jane Bowler, general manager at Voco St John's, Solihull, said: "This is an incredibly exciting time. Voco will be a fantastic addition to Solihull, and we are proud to be the first Voco property in the Midlands."

Karan Khanna, managing director, UK & Ireland at IHG, added: "With a focus on conversion opportunities, the Voco brand allows us to retain the existing charm of an independent hotel whilst also bringing the reassurances of a trusted brand, along with the power and strength of IHG's systems."

Meaning "to invite" or "come together" in Latin, Voco was launched in June 2018 with a view to open 200 hotels over the next 10 years.

Further Voco openings this year will include the rebranding of three hotels from the Principal and De Vere brands which were part of the 13-strong strong portfolio of hotels bought by French investor Covivio last year. They include Oxford Thames and Oxford Spires, which will both join Voco in May, and Grand Central Glasgow (July).

IHG has over 340 hotels in the UK and Ireland and more than 30 in the pipeline. Brands include InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, Crowne Plaza, Hotel Indigo, Staybridge Suites, Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express and, most recently, Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants and Voco.

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