Singapore, August 28, 2003 � The InterContinental Hotels Group today unveiled its plans to manage the proposed Crowne Plaza Pudong Shanghai, the first international hotel in Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone in Pudong, Shanghai. A new build hotel, the proposed Crowne Plaza Pudong Shanghai is developed and owned by Shanghai Waigaoqiao Keepgrand Hotel Co Ltd and will open its doors in August 2004.

�The proposed Crowne Plaza Pudong Shanghai�s strategic location and excellent business facilities will make it one of the best and most convenient venues for meetings and conferences in the entire Yangtze Delta area. We are pleased to be working with the InterContinental Hotels Group on this exciting project,�� said Mr Shi Xian Jun, Chairman of the Shanghai Waigaoqiao Keepgrand Hotel Co Ltd, one of Shanghai�s premier real estate development and international logistics company.

InterContinental Hotels Group�s Mr Edmond Ip, Chief Operating Officer for North Asia, said, �Our strategic alliance with Shanghai Waigaoqiao Keepgrand Hotel Co Ltd is based on complementary expertise in developing properties and managing hotels and will result in the establishment of one of the best business hotels in the Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone. 

The proposed 399-room Crowne Plaza Pudong Shanghai will have unique conference facilities, including a 576 square metre multi-function room, 10 meeting rooms and a grand ballroom that can comfortably seat 300 banquet guests. In addition to premium food and beverage outlets as well as retail and banking services, the proposed hotel will also offer a range of health and sports facilities, including an indoor swimming pool, gymnasium, sauna and beauty salon. Its proximity to the Shanghai Pudong Airport will also be a boon to the busy business traveller. 

Added Mr Ip, �This latest addition to our brand portfolio in China is an important part of our overall strategic expansion plans for North Asia and is further evidence of the group�s growing network in China. The proposed Crowne Plaza Pudong Shanghai is a strong indication that our plans for this key growth market is on track. It also shows the commitment of the newly reorganised InterContinental Hotels Group in seeking out new opportunities and actively embarking on projects that will enhance the value we bring to our partners and customers.��

InterContinental Hotels Group PLC of the United Kingdom [LON:IHG, NYSE:IHG (ADRs)], owns, manages, leases or franchises more than 3,300 hotels and 515,000 guest rooms in nearly 100 countries and territories around the world (www.ichotelsgroup.com). The Group owns a portfolio of well recognised and respected hotel brands including InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts, Holiday Inn, Express by Holiday Inn and Staybridge Suites, and also has a controlling interest in Britvic, the second largest soft drinks manufacturer in the UK.