EVEN Hotels will aim to make your stay a happier, and healthier one (Image Mark Harada)

Hoping to fill what it considers to be a gap in affordable, wellness accommodation in the United States, IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) has announced the launch of EVEN Hotels. 

Designed to meet the “large and growing” demand for healthier travel “at a mainstream price”, EVEN will look to provide solutions for health-conscience travelers in the areas of exercise, food, work and rest.

With its location to be unveiled in mid-2012, the first hotel is expected to open in early 2013.

IHG chief executive Richard Solomons said the group was “so confident” in the new brand, now one of eight under the IHG umbrella, that it would be committing a capital investment of up to US$150 million over the next three years “in order to deliver growth and profitability for EVEN Hotels”.

According to IHG, some 17 million healthier-minded travelers “fall off the wagon” when they travel, thanks to an inability to stay active and eat right when on the road.

To help address this, EVEN Hotels will feature guest rooms designed for “in-room” workouts, first-class gyms with group exercise activities, balanced and nutritious meals - available anytime, business-friendlier rooms and public spaces, and hypoallergenic linens, powerful showerheads, natural lighting, LED dimmers and antibacterial wipes in all rooms.

IHG Americas president Kirk Kinsell said the group expected to sign contracts for 100 EVEN Hotels over the next five years.

“The wellness sector continues to grow year over year and the launch of EVEN Hotels will allow IHG to take advantage of this long term trend,” he remarked.