IHG and China UnionPay Revolutionize Digital Payments in Hotel Industry

IHG Hotels & Resorts embarks on a groundbreaking partnership with China UnionPay, revolutionizing the travel experience across Greater China. This collaboration pioneers a new era of digital convenience, allowing UnionPay credit cardholders to seamlessly complete pre-authorization for online reservations via IHG’s platforms, eliminating the need for physical cards.

This innovative move positions IHG as the first international hotel group in Greater China to adopt UnionPay pre-authorization for online bookings, marking a significant advancement in the hospitality sector. The initiative enhances travellers’ booking experiences while reinforcing IHG’s commitment to digital transformation and customer satisfaction, currently, 12 hotels have implemented this feature, with more expected to follow suit.

This collaboration not only enhances payment efficiency for travellers but also provides hotels with a stable customer base, driving revenue growth, particularly in high-demand destinations like Sanya. IHG plans to expand the implementation of UnionPay pre-authorization across its Greater China portfolio, further enhancing the guest experience and market competitiveness.

Furthermore, IHG’s partnership with China UnionPay extends to inbound tourism, facilitating online bookings for international UnionPay cardholders. This initiative aims to attract more international guests to IHG properties in Greater China, fostering cultural exchange and enriching the tourism landscape.

In conclusion, IHG's collaboration with China UnionPay signifies a paradigm shift in digital payments within the hotel industry, driving convenience, efficiency, and customer satisfaction. As the partnership continues to evolve, IHG remains committed to delivering exceptional experiences to guests worldwide, further solidifying its position as a leader in hospitality innovation.