InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) Greater China is leading a significant shift towards sustainability in the hospitality industry by committing to transform 30% of its menu offerings into plant-based options by 2025. This initiative comes in response to the increasing demand among Chinese consumers for environmentally friendly and healthier dining choices, reflecting a broader trend toward conscious consumption.
Recent studies indicate a profound interest in plant-based alternatives within China. Research from Peking University in 2023 showed that over 95% of urban Chinese respondents were curious about trying plant-based foods.
A further 40% are actively reducing their meat consumption according to market research by Good Growth Co. This consumer shift underscores a growing preference for sustainable and healthier food options across the region.
IHG Greater China’s move to incorporate more plant-based dishes into its menus aligns with its core values of responsible sourcing and environmental stewardship.
“Our goal is to make 30% of menu items in our hotels in Greater China plant-based by 2025, which is consistent with our long-term commitment to sustainability and our ‘Asia for Tomorrow’ initiative,” stated Jerome Qiu, Chief Operating Officer of IHG Hotels & Resorts Greater China.
By embracing plant-based dining, IHG is not only catering to evolving consumer preferences but also driving culinary innovation, reducing costs, and enhancing operational efficiency. This strategic pivot is poised to position IHG as a leader in sustainable hospitality in China, promoting a greener food culture and contributing to a more sustainable food system.
IHG Greater China prioritizes sustainability in plant-based menu offerings
The shift towards providing more sustainable dining options reflects a broader trend in the hospitality industry. Sustainable tourism is rising as a powerful movement; according to a recent survey from Booking.com, 76% of over 33,000 respondents intended to embrace sustainable travel plans over 2024. Some 43% were willing to pay a little more to support certified sustainable travel options.
This will perhaps be most starkly realized in Asia, which is set to lead tourism growth over the next few years. Combined with an upward trend of consumers preferring more sustainable dining options, the hospitality industry must respond to the change quickly and efficiently.
Some hotels in Asia are already paving the way for a greener dining experience. In the Philippines, El Nido Resorts has committed to a number of initiatives, including ethical sourcing, ingredient replacement and farm-to-table concepts. Malaysia’s Sunway Hotels and Resorts is another player embracing sustainability in its operations, offering more plant-based and vegan options and working on a carbon emission reduction plan.
