SideStep, today announced
that it has expanded its relationship with InterContinental Hotels Group
(IHG). In addition to
featuring inventory from IHG’s seven hotel brands within its search
results, SideStep will now promote IHG in a multi-faceted marketing
campaign, connecting consumers directly to the hotelier’s Web site to book their travel.

SideStep will accelerate customer acquisition for IHG brand hotels, which
include InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, Crowne Plaza, Hotel Indigo,
Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Staybridge Suites and Candlewood Suites
hotels.

“Marketing via SideStep is an excellent strategic fit for IHG,” said
Michael Menis, director, Global Marketing Services, IHG. “SideStep drives
avid travelers straight to our Web site. Whereas online agencies often
look to own the customer relationship, SideStep helps us to promote our
brands and continue building our customer relationships by driving direct
interaction between valuable customers and IHG brand hotels. The travel
search model works well for us,” Menis continued, “and SideStep leads this
category.”

“IHG is a bold, decisive marketer, and is selective about the companies
with which it works,” said Don Smith, SideStep’s vice president, hotels.
“IHG has some of the world’s most recognized and respected brands in the
hotel business,” Smith continued, “and we’re looking forward to bringing
our full range of marketing programs to bear on the company’s behalf.”

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