On Sept. 23, IHG Hotels & Resorts announced development opportunity availability in the United States for Ruby Hotels, its 20^th global brand. The hospitality brand acquired Ruby Hotels this past February. The Ruby brand was initially established in 2013 in Germany, and today operates 20 hotels in international cities across Europe.

Now, the brand under IHG makes its U.S. market debut, marking a significant milestone in its global expansion.

“Ruby is a brand built for the future of hospitality. Its success in Europe speaks to the growing demand for flexible, lifestyle-focused hotels in highly traveled locations,” said Jolyon Bulley, CEO, Americas, IHG Hotels & Resorts. “Ruby’s U.S. introduction will complement our premium portfolio and offer owners a differentiated product with strong economics and scalable growth potential. We’re encouraged by the initial interest and buzz around Ruby, which reinforces our confidence in its appeal and ability to thrive in this market.”

Ruby Hotels’ expanding presence now includes 34 open or pipeline hotels in major European cities like London, Amsterdam, Dublin, Florence, Munich, Geneva, Vienna, Zürich, Hamburg, Frankfurt and Cologne. IHG’s strategic growth plan for Ruby will prioritize major U.S. urban markets, accommodating a range of project types including conversion, adaptive reuse and new-build.

The Ruby brand will emphasize elements and amenities guests prioritize while eliminating unwanted extras. Each Ruby hotel offers standardized and well-appointed room options, including cozy beds, premium fixtures and finishes, rainfall showers, and high-quality bath amenities. Ruby’s public spaces welcome travelers and the community through destination 24/7 bars serving unique cocktails and barista coffee, as well as locally crafted interiors.

This acquisition reflects IHG’s continued accelerated global growth in the “urban micro” segment.

“Ruby empowers IHG to connect with a new type of traveler – the individualist who values soulful, character-driven premium stays at an affordable price point,” said Lauren Krostue, VP, Global Brand Management, Ruby Hotels. “In bringing Ruby to the U.S., we will retain what’s made the brand so special in Europe – including its unique design and operating model – while localizing certain elements to reflect market needs. We look forward to introducing the Ruby experience to a new group of owners and guests and showcasing what sets the brand apart in the increasingly popular ‘urban micro’ segment.”

Have you stayed at a Ruby hotel before? What was your experience like? Which U.S. cities would you like to see a Ruby hotel come to? Email us at letters@globaltravelerusa.com. Please include your full name and location.