Las Vegas Sands Corp., owner of the Venetian and Palazzo
resorts in Las Vegas, has signed a 10-year licensing agreement with
InterContinental Hotels Group in which the Sands properties will join IHG's
operating system, the companies announced on Monday.
With the agreement, travelers can now book stays at the
Venetian and Palazzo through IHG's websites. IHG's sales team also will provide
support to the properties, and guests will earn points through IHG's Priority
Club Rewards when staying there. Both properties will retain their independent
identities, however.
IHG president of the Americas Jim Abrahamson said the
company might consider similar alliances with other resorts but is not looking
to build a large portfolio of independent properties like Marriott
International's Autograph Collection.
"We're looking at other opportunities around the world,
but this will be very selective," Abrahamson said. "Our intent is to
make this very special and unique. We wouldn't call this a brand launch by any
stretch of the imagination."