In a move designed to bolster its Italian portfolio, IHG Hotels & Resorts has signed an agreement with Pacini Group to rebrand The Venice Times as part of its Vignette Collection. The deal – expected to conclude by the end of 2025 – marks the second collaboration between the two companies following the opening of Garner Hotel Rome Aurelia, and the first Vignette signing in Venice’s historic core.
Strategically situated a short stroll from landmarks such as Ca’ d’Oro, the Grand Canal and La Fenice, The Venice Times will join IHG’s existing Hotel Indigo Venice – Sant’Elena and further extend a portfolio that already includes eight open luxury and lifestyle hotels in Italy, with a further five in development. It is also the third Vignette Collection property secured in Italy over the past two years, following Hotel Alexandra and Costa Irminia Retreat & Spa, both part of IHG’s push to offer a different price point to its voco brands since the Collection’s August 2021 launch.
Willemijn Geels, VP, development, Europe, IHG, said: “With the signing of The Venice Times, Vignette Collection, IHG is delighted to strengthen its presence in one of Italy’s most iconic destinations. Strategically positioned near the city’s main gateway, the hotel is poised to benefit from strong year-round demand, further solidifying our luxury and lifestyle positioning in the market.
“We are excited to continue the expansion of Vignette Collection alongside our partners at Pacini Group. This signing marks our second collaboration, following the opening of Garner Hotel Rome Aurelia, and reinforces our partnership to bring exceptional hospitality experiences to guests in Italy.”
Emidio Pacini, CEO & owner at Pacini Group, added: “Venice, the second most visited city in Italy, remains one of the world’s top tourist destinations, admired for its rich history, unique architecture and global appeal. That’s precisely why we are heavily investing in this city through our group’s offerings.
“The hotel’s rebranding represents a unique opportunity to provide guests with a truly different stay – where responsibility, community and appreciation of the territory come together, fully in line with the Vignette Collection brand. We aim to deliver a high-quality stay, offer additional services with ease, and allow guests to experience the destination like a local.”
The boutique 30-room property will retain a distinct Venetian identity, complete with locally inspired décor, an intimate courtyard for breakfast, a cocktail bar, outside terrace and a restaurant serving regional cuisine. Guests will also benefit from easy access to the city’s Vaporetto water buses, ensuring seamless travel to Venice’s attractions and dining spots.
By adding The Venice Times to its Vignette roster of operations, IHG now boasts 30 open hotels across seven brands in Italy – including InterContinental, Six Senses, Hotel Indigo, voco, Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express – and 15 more in the pipeline.
