Kimpton Reveals the Trending Tastes of 2026
Written by Emily J. Thompson, Senior Investment Analyst
Updated: Nov 17 2025
0mins
Should l Buy IHG?
Source: PRnewswire
Culinary and Cocktail Trends for 2026: Kimpton's annual Culinary + Cocktail Trend Forecast highlights innovative dining styles and ingredients set to shape the global hospitality scene, including a focus on heritage and third-culture cuisine, charcoal cooking, and international pancake variations.
Emerging Beverage Trends: The forecast also emphasizes the rise of natural ingredients in cocktails, such as botanicals replacing sugar, the popularity of banana milk, and the introduction of layered drinks that enhance visual and taste experiences.
Guest Experience Focus: Kimpton aims to create deeper connections through food and drink, transforming menus into storytelling platforms that reflect local culture and creativity, while also prioritizing authenticity and artistry in culinary offerings.
Innovative Techniques and Ingredients: The report notes the integration of technology in beverage preparation, the resurgence of unique citrus varieties, and the growing trend of entrée-inspired dips, all contributing to a dynamic and engaging dining experience for guests.
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Analyst Views on IHG
Wall Street analysts forecast IHG stock price to fall
1 Analyst Rating
0 Buy
1 Hold
0 Sell
Hold
Current: 145.870
Low
135.00
Averages
135.00
High
135.00
Current: 145.870
Low
135.00
Averages
135.00
High
135.00
About IHG
InterContinental Hotels Group PLC is a United Kingdom-based global hospitality company. The Company has a diverse portfolio of differentiated brands. With 20 hotel brands and IHG One Rewards, which is a hotel loyalty program, the Company has approximately 6,600 open hotels in more than 100 countries, and a development pipeline of over 2,200 properties. The Company’s brands include Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas, Regent Hotels & Resorts, InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, Vignette Collection, Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants, Hotel Indigo, voco hotels, HUALUXE Hotels & Resorts, Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts, EVEN Hotels, Holiday Inn Express, Holiday Inn Hotels & Resorts, Garner hotels, avid hotels, Atwell Suites, Staybridge Suites, Holiday Inn Club Vacations, Candlewood Suites, Iberostar Beachfront Resorts, and Ruby. Ruby brand operates approximately 20 hotels (3,483 rooms) in cities across Europe and has another 10 pipeline hotels (2,235 rooms).
About the author
Emily J. Thompson
Emily J. Thompson, a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) with 12 years in investment research, graduated with honors from the Wharton School. Specializing in industrial and technology stocks, she provides in-depth analysis for Intellectia’s earnings and market brief reports.
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- Brand Strategy: InterContinental is focused on expanding the global presence of its Holiday Inn brand, particularly in the Chinese market, with plans to broaden its footprint beyond tier-1 cities to meet the diverse needs of younger consumers.
- Competitive Advantage: New regional chief development officer Mark Sergot will drive the development of more luxury and premium properties, helping InterContinental enhance its market position against Marriott and Hilton, thereby increasing its appeal in the Americas market.
See More
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- Expansion in China: With over 1,400 hotels in Greater China and plans for further openings across more than 200 cities, InterContinental aims to capitalize on the travel demands of a young consumer class, thereby enhancing its market share in a key growth region.
- Technological Innovation: The appointment of Wei Manfredi as AI executive is set to drive the company's AI strategy, optimizing IT architecture and operational efficiency, with expectations that AI applications will improve customer experiences and increase repeat business.
- Luxury Market Focus: The new regional chief development officer, Mark Sergot, will prioritize luxury and premium properties, aiming to enhance InterContinental's competitiveness in the Americas market against established players like Marriott and Hilton, which could lead to improved market positioning.
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