Latest addition to the InterContinental Hotels Group's China portfolio targeting the business traveller.

The InterContinental Hotels Group today unveiled its plans to manage the proposed Crowne Plaza Pudong Shanghai, the first international hotel in Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone in Pudong, Shanghai. The newest addition to the group will provide discerning business travellers with comprehensive meeting and conference facilities and enhance the group's growing presence in the China market. A new build hotel, the proposed Crowne Plaza Pudong Shanghai is developed and owned by Shanghai Waigaoqiao Keepgrand Hotel Co Ltd and will open its doors in August 2004.

"The proposed Crowne Plaza Pudong Shanghai's strategic location and excellent business facilities will make it one of the best and most convenient venues for meetings and conferences in the entire Yangtze Delta area. We are pleased to be working with the InterContinental Hotels Group on this exciting project. Our partnership will enable us to leverage the group's extensive experience, expertise and pool of 18 million Priority Club Rewards members and we will be well placed to seize the opportunities in the burgeoning business traveller market in the region," said Mr Shi Xian Jun, Chairman of the Shanghai Waigaoqiao Keepgrand Hotel Co Ltd, one of Shanghai's premier real estate
development and international logistics company.

InterContinental Hotels Group's Mr Edmond Ip, Chief Operating Officer for North Asia, said, "Our strategic alliance with Shanghai Waigaoqiao Keepgrand Hotel Co Ltd is based on complementary expertise in developing properties and managing hotels and will result in the establishment of one of the best business hotels in the Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone. The proposed Crowne Plaza Pudong Shanghai will become a choice hotel for business travellers and conference planners who are looking for comprehensive facilities and services that cater to all their business needs."

The dynamic Crowne Plaza brand is one of the fastest growing hotel brands in Asia Pacific.

Located in major market gateways and developing business centres, the Crowne Plaza brand offers business travellers quality accommodation with enhanced and efficient business services and facilities for both formal and informal meetings. The proposed Crowne Plaza Pudong Shanghai, to be situated in a commercial and logistics hub in the largest special trade zone of the region, will serve the hub's business travellers, including those from the major multi-national corporations based there.

The proposed 399-room Crowne Plaza Pudong Shanghai will have unique conference facilities, including a 576 square metre multi-function room, 10 meeting rooms and a grand ballroom that can comfortably seat 300 banquet guests. In addition to premium food and beverage outlets as well as retail and banking services, the proposed hotel will also offer a range of health and sports facilities, including an indoor swimming pool, gymnasium, sauna and beauty salon. Its proximity to the Shanghai Pudong Airport will also be a boon to the busy business traveller.

Added Mr Ip, "This latest addition to our brand portfolio in China is an important part of our overall strategic expansion plans for North Asia and is further evidence of the group's growing network in China. The proposed Crowne Plaza Pudong Shanghai is a strong indication that our plans for this key growth market is on track. It also shows the commitment of the newly reorganised InterContinental Hotels Group in seeking out new opportunities and actively embarking on projects that will enhance the value we bring to our partners and customers."