IHG Hotels & Resorts (IHG), one of the world’s leading hospitality companies, has signed an agreement for the new Crowne Plaza Podgorica, marking the company’s seventh hotel in Montenegro and its second property in the capital city.
Set to open by the end of 2024, the 122-room hotel will be located within the prestigious Capital Plaza development, a prominent destination known for its vibrant mix of residential, commercial, and retail spaces.
Owned by BIG CEE, Crowne Plaza Podgorica will provide guests with a premium experience in a prime business location. Capital Plaza is already home to the regional headquarters of several global organizations, including Deloitte, PWC, and The World Bank, making it a strategic hub for business travelers.
Over the past decade, the Capital Plaza complex has helped redefine Podgorica’s business district, blending modern office spaces with luxurious amenities, and the new Crowne Plaza will further enrich this dynamic environment.
Crowne Plaza Podgorica promises an array of facilities designed for comfort, productivity, and relaxation. Alongside versatile meeting and event spaces, the hotel will feature a main restaurant on the first floor, a bar on the ground floor, and a signature lounge on the fifth floor, offering guests an array of dining and socializing options. The property’s design will embody Crowne Plaza’s commitment to purposeful spaces, allowing guests to seamlessly transition between work and leisure in a modern, welcoming setting.
This new addition joins IHG’s existing portfolio in Montenegro, which includes the Regent Porto Montenegro and voco Podgorica. With other projects underway, such as Crowne Plaza Kolasin, set to open in 2025, IHG’s investment in Montenegro reflects its dedication to meeting the demand for high-quality accommodation in top European destinations.
Mrs. Willemijn Geels, Vice President of Development for IHG Hotels & Resorts in Europe, emphasized the importance of the new hotel: “It’s wonderful to sign Crowne Plaza Podgorica, which is an important moment for IHG as we continue to grow our presence across the Balkans. The hotel will fit seamlessly into the existing Capital Plaza development in the prime location of Podgorica and is a great example of our ability to sign and convert properties across our brand portfolio at speed.”
Geels further highlighted the attractiveness of conversion opportunities across Europe, noting that the popularity of IHG brands, along with the company’s global reach and IHG One Rewards program, offers significant value for property owners. BIG CEE’s collaboration with IHG is seen as a strategic partnership, as the two work together to bring the Crowne Plaza experience to Montenegro’s capital.
Mr. Lev Weiss, CEO of BIG CEE, expressed excitement about the project, stating, “This unique and cosmopolitan property is one of very few that have transformed the business image of the Montenegrin capital. Since its acquisition in 2023, we have constantly been improving the service versatility and the offer of The Capital Plaza. Hence, we are delighted to partner with IHG Hotels & Resorts. It is great to welcome the first Crowne Plaza in Podgorica, and we, together with IHG, look forward to welcoming domestic and international guests to this superb hotel by the end of 2024.”
The Crowne Plaza Podgorica is part of IHG’s ambitious development plans for Montenegro, with several new properties set to open in the coming years. In addition to the Crowne Plaza Kolasin, Montenegro will soon host an InterContinental Resort in Cjan and a Holiday Inn in Mojkovac, expanding IHG’s footprint across the country. Crowne Plaza Podgorica will also join a robust pipeline of 19 Crowne Plaza properties in development across Europe and 146 globally, underscoring the brand’s global growth strategy.
With this latest addition, IHG strengthens its presence in Montenegro, catering to the needs of both business and leisure travelers seeking a refined, flexible space for their stay. Crowne Plaza Podgorica will welcome guests from across the world to experience Montenegro’s evolving business landscape, scenic beauty, and warm hospitality.
