Honouring partnership - creativity and excellence - the IHG Agency Awards, brings together representatives of Europe's major travel agencies to recognise the teams and individuals who have provided the hotel industry with the highest levels of value, innovation and support throughout the past year.

IHG will host its inaugural Agency Awards at InterContinental, London Park Lane on 26 April, 2007.

The seven award categories include Agency Account Manager / Director of the Year, Conference & Incentive Agency of the Year, Agency Booking Team of the Year and overall Agency of the Year.  The winners' prizes include a brand new Vauxhall car - highlighting Holiday Inn's two-year sponsorship of Vauxhall's VX Racing Team in the British Touring Car Championship - and a luxury break at the InterContinental Carlton Cannes.

Nominations are currently being gathered from IHG's Global Sales Directors and IHG hotels across EMEA, with a final judging panel comprising senior representatives from our key franchise partners.

Andrew Waller, Executive Vice President Carlson Wagonlit UK, said: "Whoever wins, we are really pleased to support and participate in this event .  Success is founded on strong partnerships and these awards will recognise and acknowledge the hard work that is put in on both sides."

William Morris, IHG's Vice President Sales & Marketing EMEA, said: "The IHG Agency Awards gives us the opportunity to recognise the invaluable contribution our Agency Partners make to our business. We're delighted to be able to welcome our guests to the InterContinental London Park Lane for what promises to be a great evening."