Global hospitality company IHG Hotels & Resorts has rebranded a Pacini Group property in Italy to its midscale conversion brand, Garner Hotels, expanding its presence in southern Europe.
The Pacini Group property, formerly known as The Smooth Hotel Rome, has been rebranded to Garner Hotel Rome Aurelia.
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IHG Hotels & Resorts Europe development vice-president Willemijn Geels said: “We are delighted to bring the first Garner to Italy alongside Pacini Group – a very well-respected and trusted Owner in the market.
“Their excellent track record and substantial experience in hotel renovation and operations, coupled with IHG’s powerful enterprise, fills me with confidence that Garner Hotel Rome Aurelia will thrive once the hotel is rebranded later this year.”
This development highlights the brand’s growth strategy and the conversion of existing properties to leverage IHG’s technology, global expertise and revenue systems.
Garner Hotel Rome Aurelia completed a renovation last month, offering a minimalistic design across its 58 guest rooms.
The hotel is strategically located near Fiumicino Airport, Vatican City, and the Trastevere district, featuring modern amenities, a restaurant, bar, outdoor terrace, and meeting spaces.
Pacini Group owner and CEO Emidio Pacini said: “We are proud to launch our partnership with IHG Hotels & Resorts, with the signing of the first Garner hotels property in Italy.
“With business and leisure traveller interest in Rome continuing to grow, the demand for quality accommodation at a good price point is on the rise. We are excited to meet this growing demand with Garner Hotel Rome Aurelia and to offer a compelling alternative in the midscale segment in the city.”
Garner Hotel Rome Aurelia is part of a robust pipeline that includes more than 88 properties worldwide. The Garner hotels launched in 2023 as IHG’s 19th brand.
In Italy, IHG’s portfolio continues to grow with 30 open hotels across seven brands and an additional ten properties in development.
In addition, IHG has welcomed Hotel Spero in San Francisco, which features 236 guest rooms and 23 suites, to its Vignette Collection. The opening marks the brand’s first hotel on the West Coast.
In a separate development, IHG has launched its ‘myBenefits’ programme in Japan, following its success in Australia and New Zealand.
The initiative aims to attract and retain talent by addressing the evolving needs of the workforce and supporting colleagues’ personal and professional lives.
The programme underpins IHG’s commitment to providing a supportive work environment through its ‘Room to Grow, Room to Belong, and Room to Make a Difference’ promises.
