Deutsche Hospitality, the umbrella of German hotel company Steigenberger Hotels AG that includes Steigenberger Icons, Steigenberger Porsche Design Hotels, Steigenberger Hotels & Resorts, Jaz in the City, House of Beats, IntercityHotel, Maxx Hotels, Zleep Hotels, and newly-added Ji Hotels within their brand family, is rebranding to H World International.
The move comes as part of its global expansion drive from China-headquartered ownership group H World, in an effort to underline their commitment to growth outside of China. Deutsche Hospitality has been a member of the Huazhu Group since 2020, and their global growth has been underway since then, when their portfolio totalled around 150 hotels, including 30 that are currently either in planning stages, or under construction.
“The rebranding to H World International is ushering in a new chapter of international growth, complementing our vast presence in China”, says Jin Hui, CEO of H World. “It is an important step towards our goal to become a world-class global hotel group, with one global team.”
H World International has appointed Oliver Bonke as CEO, where his responsibilities will focus on further expanding the company’s existing presence in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. Choon Wah Wong will hold the role of CFO of H World International while remaining managing director of the Steigenberger Hotels GmbH. H World International’s remit will include Europe, the Middle East, India & Africa (MEIA), and Asia Pacific (APAC) regions.
“We are excited to bring all of our distinctive brands to key global markets. With our compelling value proposition for owners and investors, we will be able to offer our employees career opportunities across the globe and 218 million H Rewards members more choice – an even more attractive hotel portfolio, in more destinations, and across more brands”, says Oliver Bonke.
H World International will be kickstarting its growth in the APAC region through a joint venture with Conduit House, followed by a freshly-inked agreement with Tantakitt Company Limited for the Montien by Steigenberger in Bangkok, which will be the first Steigenberer hotel in Thailand. A new agreement has also been signed for the new build Steigenberger Resort Byoum Lakeside southwest of Cairo in Egypt, where there are already 16 Steigenberger Resorts across the country, making it the second new Middle East venture after the opening of the IntercityHotel Bawshar in Muscat, Oman was announced in February 2024.
