CanadianSME Small Business Magazine recently spoke with Mark Sergot, Senior Vice President of Global Sales at IHG Hotels & Resorts, about the critical role of SMEs in Canada’s economy and the unique challenges they face in managing business travel. He also discussed how partnering with the right hotel provider and accessing accommodations tailored to business needs can help SMEs optimize costs, improve efficiency, and support business growth.
An accomplished hospitality executive with over 25 years of experience, Mark Sergot has worked across the globe including a 10-year stint living and working in Toronto. In his current role at UK headquartered, IHG Hotels & Resorts, he leads a global sales team of 250 members, shaping the department’s strategy, structure, and standards that influence the commercial performance of over 6,500 hotels across 20 brands in Canada and worldwide.
Beyond his role at IHG, Mark is a respected industry leader, engaged with organizations such as the Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International, and the Professional Convention Management Association.
A passionate advocate for lifelong learning, he champions continuous training and personal development to drive professional success.
What are some of the biggest travel challenges facing Canadian SMEs today?
Small and midsize businesses are the backbone of Canada’s economy, contributing nearly half its GDP and employing more than 60% of its workforce. Yet, when it comes to travel, they lack the resources and negotiating power of larger corporations, making it difficult to secure competitive rates, manage costs, and streamline booking and expense tracking.
While business travel is essential for expanding opportunities, maintaining client relationships, and exploring new markets, SMEs often lack access to the same travel partnerships and resources as larger companies.
How is IHG supporting the travel needs of small and midsize businesses in Canada?
We understand the need for flexible, cost-effective, and time-saving travel solutions. That’s why we offer business-friendly accommodations across a wide range of brands, making it easier for SMEs to find hotels that fit their needs—whether for short stays, long-term projects, or team meetings.
We provide a dedicated hotel booking and management platform that allows business owners and travelers to streamline reservations, track expenses, and optimize travel budgets. Additionally, our new Partnership Program extends benefits beyond accommodations, providing SME clients with exclusive offers from trusted companies in technology, car rentals, software, and more.
With IHG’s global presence, how does its portfolio of brands create value for SMEs?
IHG’s diverse portfolio of 19 brands meets a wide range of business travel needs—whether for a quick overnight stay, an extended business trip, or a corporate retreat. While each brand offers a unique experience, they all share the same commitment to quality, service, and consistency to ensure an optimal experience wherever business takes our customers.
Access to a reliable and extensive hotel network is especially valuable to SMEs. Whether traveling domestically or internationally, business owners and employees can select accommodations that align with their budget, offer essential amenities, and support their overall trip objectives while maintaining a sense of familiarity and trust in the high-quality service they’ll receive.
Is IHG expanding its presence in Canada to meet growing demand?
Canada is a key market for IHG, and we are strategically expanding across various regions and brand categories. Alongside our well-established brands—such as Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Staybridge Suites, and Candlewood Suites—we continue to strengthen our presence in major business hubs to serve both business and leisure travelers.
One exciting addition to our Canadian portfolio is avid Hotels, designed for everyday travel at an exceptional value. avid caters to business travelers by focusing on essentials that matter most—such as sound-reducing headboards, blackout roller shades, and high-quality bedding for a restful night’s sleep. The brand also offers premium, grab-and-go breakfast, fresh-brewed coffee around the clock, and dedicated workspaces in each room to ensure guests can stay productive on the road.
As we continue to expand, we are committed to providing a diverse range of accommodations that meet the evolving needs of Canadian SMEs.
What should SMEs consider when choosing a hotel partner for business travel?
Beyond offering the right hotels in the right locations with the right features, a hotel company should provide comprehensive travel solutions that simplify business travel management and deliver consistent value, service, and rewards. SMEs should look for programs that help control costs, streamline booking, and provide visibility into employee travel patterns.
For example, an effective travel program that offers exclusive discounts, a centralized booking platform, and tools to track and analyze travel expenses can help them make informed travel decisions and optimize spending.
Additionally, a strong loyalty program can increase the value of business travel. Programs like IHG One Rewards allow SMEs and their travelers to earn points that can be redeemed for a variety of rewards, such as complimentary room nights, merchandise, event tickets, and gift cards. These benefits can help stretch travel budgets while enhancing employee satisfaction and retention.
Ultimately, choosing a hotel partner is about more than finding a place to stay—it’s about accessing a network of support, cost-saving opportunities, and resources that align with a company’s business goals and travel needs.
Final Thoughts
As business travel continues to evolve, having access to a vast network of hotels, customized business programs, and valuable partnerships can equip Canadian SMEs with the resources they need to travel more efficiently wherever they desire to travel around the world.
I encourage you to explore the IHG Business Edge portal to see how we can support your specific business travel needs.
