Deutsche Hospitality, a European hotel company rooted in German heritage, is undergoing a significant transformation by changing its name to H World International. This strategic change is designed to propel the expansion of its ownership group, H World, beyond the borders of China.

Under the new umbrella, all H World International brands will be integrated into the global H Rewards loyalty programme and online booking platform. The diverse family of brands includes Steigenberger Icons, Steigenberger Porsche Design Hotels, Steigenberger Hotels & Resorts, Jaz in the City, House of Beats, IntercityHotel, Maxx and Zleep Hotels.

This international portfolio has recently been expanded to include Ji Hotel, one of H World China's fast-growing mid-market brands. The Ji Hotel Orchard in Singapore is the brand's first property outside China.

"It marks a pivotal moment in our international expansion journey, complementing our extensive presence in China. This transition is a crucial step towards our vision of becoming a premier global hotel group, operating seamlessly as one cohesive team worldwide." - Jin Hui, CEO of H World

Oliver Bonke assumes the role of CEO of H World International, alongside Deutsche Hospitality's esteemed management team. Bonke and Choon Wah Wong, CFO of H World International, will remain Managing Directors of Steigenberger Hotels GmbH. H World International's jurisdiction includes Europe, Middle East, India and Africa (MEIA), as well as the Asia-Pacific region (APAC).

"We are thrilled to introduce our distinct brands to key global markets. With our compelling offerings for owners and investors, we aim to provide career opportunities to our employees worldwide and offer our 218 million H Rewards members a broader selection of destinations and brands." - Oliver Bonke

H World International has entered into a joint venture with Conduit House, a hotel operator and asset manager in Asia, to facilitate its expansion in the APAC region. Bonke emphasised the strategic importance of the partnership, citing Conduit House's experienced leadership and extensive network in the Asian hotel landscape as invaluable assets to their ambitious growth plans.

The company has recently signed five major contracts in its growth regions. Among the most significant deals is the addition of the Montien Surawong Bangkok, a Steigenberger hotel, through a partnership with Tantakitt Company Limited. The hotel, which has undergone a complete refurbishment, will be the first Steigenberger property in Thailand and will open in July this year. In addition, agreements have been finalised for Maxx Huay Yai Villa, Pattaya, Thailand, and Steigenberger Resort Byoum Lakeside in Egypt, among others.

In Europe, Steigenberger Hotels & Resorts has added the historic Bielefelder Hof in Germany to its portfolio, while Zleep Hotels continues to expand with openings in Denmark and Switzerland.