IHG and China CITIC Bank announced the official launch of the IHG® Rewards Club CITIC Co-branded Credit Card in Shanghai.

The co-branded credit card is at the forefront of China's hotel and finance industries as the first of its kind to offer ratings in line with grades of hotel membership cards.

Drawing on the rich experience and comparative advantages of the two leading companies' worldwide resources in hospitality and finance, the IHG® Rewards Club CITIC Co-branded Credit Card will provide frequent travellers the easiest and fastest way to earn free hotel stays as well as access to a wide range of service options that complement their lifestyle. The dual currency UnionPay and MasterCard will offer three ratings – Gold card, Platinum card and World card that directly correspond with IHG's Rewards Club's Gold Elite, Platinum Elite and Platinum Elite with InterContinental Ambassador memberships.

Kenneth Macpherson, chief executive officer, IHG Greater China said, "We are pleased to continue IHG's history of innovative industry leadership in the China market by partnering with CITIC Bank, China's pioneering financial brand. IHG owns the world's largest and most popular hotel loyalty programme, and we are committed to providing preferred hotel services and the best value proposition to our over 74 million members around the world. This partnership strengthens our ability to deliver a more outstanding overall travel experience to our rewards members." The new co-branded card is the world's first credit card featuring IHG's brand portfolio and its recently refreshed IHG Rewards Club.

The co-branded credit card not only offers cardholders double points on their spending at IHG hotels worldwide, but also a 15% off best flexible rates at all 200 IHG hotels in Greater China including InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts, Hotel Indigo, Holiday Inn Hotels & Resorts and Holiday Inn Express Hotels.  

"Partnering with IHG, the world's and China's largest international hotel company, to launch the co-branded credit card is a strategic move for China CITIC Bank to better provide value-added services to our most discerning customers, and embark on our process of internationalisation. We believe this strategic partnership will create an unparalleled experience to our customers with diverse travel demands who expect a smooth and efficient card experience," said Jeffery Chen, President of Credit Card Centre, China CITIC Bank.