One of the Sydney CBD’s most iconic properties, currently trading as Old Sydney Holiday Inn in The Rocks, will join the Rydges network from early 2020 as part of a new management agreement signed this week.
Following a competitive tender for the management rights, the 176-room hotel will be rebadged as Rydges Sydney Harbour, effective from 14 January 2020. The move sees the property become the 16th Sydney hotel in the Event Hospitality & Entertainment Limited network after nearly two decades flying the Holiday Inn flag.
A major refurbishment will be carried out on the hotel following the rebrand, including a new design and colour scheme on the ground floor restaurant and bar. A new General Manager will also be appointed in the new year. Further guest facilities include a rooftop swimming pool nestled among one of the best views of Sydney Harbour.
Event Hospitality Director of Hotels and Resorts, Norman Arundel, said the company was looking forward to an exciting new era for the hotel.
“Our team is excited about the appointment and look forward to bringing Rydges’ signature style and genuine commitment to delivering great service and hospitality to the hotel and our guests in the New Year.”
Outgoing management brand, Holiday Inn, confirmed the end of its partnership with the hotel’s owners, Ambassador Hotels, but wished the best for Event Hospitality as it took over as the management brand.
“This hotel has had a special place in the hearts of travellers to Sydney for almost 20 years, so we are naturally disappointed that it will no longer be part of the IHG family, but we feel it was the right outcome,” said InterContinental Hotels Group Managing Director Australasia and Japan, Leanne Harwood.