What is IHG Corporate Rate?
The IHG corporate rate is a negotiated rate that companies can secure for their employees when booking accommodations at IHG properties. These rates are typically lower than standard rates and are available to businesses that frequently send employees on travel. The corporate rate is designed to provide companies with a cost-effective way to manage travel expenses while offering their employees access to quality accommodations.
Benefits of IHG Corporate Rate
Utilizing IHG corporate rates provides several advantages for businesses and their employees:
- Cost Savings: The most apparent benefit is the reduced room rates, which can lead to substantial savings for companies with frequent travelers.
- Consistency: Corporate rates ensure that employees receive the same rate regardless of when or where they travel, helping to simplify budget forecasting.
- Quality Assurance: IHG hotels are known for their quality and service, ensuring that employees enjoy a comfortable stay no matter the location.
- Rewards Programs: Companies can often enroll in IHG’s loyalty program, IHG Rewards, allowing employees to earn points for free nights and other benefits.
- Flexible Booking Options: Corporate rates often come with flexible cancellation policies, which can be crucial for business travelers with changing schedules.
How to Secure an IHG Corporate Rate
Securing an IHG corporate rate involves several steps. Here's a guide for businesses interested in leveraging these rates:
- Assess Your Company’s Travel Needs: Understand how often your employees travel and which destinations they frequent. This information will help in negotiating terms that suit your specific requirements.
- Contact IHG Sales: Reach out to IHG’s sales team or corporate account manager. They can provide information about available corporate rates and help tailor a program that meets your needs.
- Negotiate Terms: Discuss pricing, room types, and additional perks, such as breakfast inclusions, parking, and Wi-Fi. Ensure that the terms are beneficial for your company.
- Sign a Contract: Once you reach an agreement, a contract will be drafted. Make sure to review the terms carefully before signing.
- Train Employees: Educate your employees about the new corporate rate program, including how to book accommodations using the corporate rate and any specific policies that apply.
Eligibility Criteria for IHG Corporate Rates
Not all companies are eligible for IHG corporate rates. The following criteria are generally considered:
- Travel Frequency: Companies that travel frequently are more likely to secure corporate rates.
- Size of the Company: Larger companies with a significant number of employees traveling regularly might have an edge in negotiations.
- Industry Type: Certain industries may have more established relationships with hotel chains, influencing eligibility.
- Annual Room Night Commitment: Some IHG corporate rates require a commitment to a minimum number of room nights per year.
Understanding the Booking Process
The booking process for IHG corporate rates can be straightforward. Here’s how it typically works:
- Accessing the Corporate Rate: Employees can access corporate rates through the IHG website or the IHG mobile app by entering the corporate ID provided by their employer.
- Searching for Hotels: Use the search function to find available IHG properties in the desired location. Select the appropriate dates and number of guests.
- Selecting the Corporate Rate: During the booking process, ensure that the corporate rate is selected. This is usually indicated in the rate options.
- Completing the Booking: Fill in the necessary details, including payment information. Review the booking summary to confirm the corporate rate has been applied.
Managing Corporate Travel with IHG
Effective management of corporate travel is essential for maximizing the benefits of corporate rates. Here are some tips for businesses:
- Track Travel Expenses: Use expense tracking tools to monitor spending on corporate travel, ensuring adherence to budgets.
- Analyze Travel Patterns: Regularly review travel data to understand trends and make adjustments to the corporate rate agreement as needed.
- Solicit Employee Feedback: Gather feedback from employees regarding their experiences with IHG hotels, aiming for continuous improvement in the travel program.
- Stay Informed: Keep up with changes in IHG’s corporate rate offerings and policies, as well as any new properties or brand launches that could benefit your travel program.
Conclusion
The IHG corporate rate is an invaluable asset for businesses looking to streamline travel expenses while ensuring their employees enjoy quality accommodations during their travels. By understanding the benefits, securing the rates, and managing corporate travel effectively, companies can achieve significant cost savings and improve overall employee satisfaction. As the landscape of corporate travel continues to evolve, leveraging partnerships with hotel chains like IHG will remain a key strategy for effective travel management in the business world.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an IHG corporate rate?
An IHG corporate rate is a discounted hotel rate offered by InterContinental Hotels Group for business travelers associated with a specific company or organization.
How can a company qualify for an IHG corporate rate?
A company can qualify for an IHG corporate rate by negotiating a contract with IHG, usually based on travel volume and frequency of stays at their hotels.
What benefits come with an IHG corporate rate?
Benefits of an IHG corporate rate may include discounted room rates, flexible booking options, and additional perks like free breakfast or bonus points in the IHG Rewards program.
How do I book a room with an IHG corporate rate?
To book a room with an IHG corporate rate, you typically need to enter your company's corporate ID during the booking process on the IHG website or provide it when calling the hotel directly.
Can IHG corporate rates be used for personal travel?
IHG corporate rates are primarily intended for business travel, but some companies may allow employees to use these rates for personal travel, depending on their policy.
Are IHG corporate rates available for all IHG brands?
Yes, IHG corporate rates are generally available across all IHG brands, including InterContinental, Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn, and others, though specific availability may vary.
How do I find my company's IHG corporate rate?
You can find your company's IHG corporate rate by checking with your travel manager or HR department, or by logging into the IHG corporate booking portal if your company has one.
What should I do if I have trouble booking with my corporate rate?
If you have trouble booking with your corporate rate, contact IHG customer service or your company's travel support team for assistance.
Do IHG corporate rates expire?
IHG corporate rates can expire or be renegotiated annually, so it’s important for companies to review their agreements regularly to ensure continued access to the rates.
Can small businesses obtain IHG corporate rates?
Yes, small businesses can obtain IHG corporate rates by demonstrating consistent travel needs and negotiating a corporate agreement with IHG, though conditions may apply.
