The InterContinental Hotel Group (IHG) has launched its American Staybridge Suites concept in the UK.

Aimed at extended-stay guests who will occupy a suite for several nights, or weeks, at a time, the first two Staybridge Suites will both be new build and open in London’s Brentford and South Bank areas by late 2006.

Each suite will feature a freezer, a fridge, a cooker and an area for help-yourself breakfasts.

The UK sites will be operated under a management and franchise deal with Stay Investments and the Splendid Hotel Group.

IHG chief executive, Andrew Cosslett, said: “As an industry leader, we see an opportunity to drive innovation and creativity in new markets.

“Extended stay is one of the fastest growing segments in the US and we believe that this trend will follow in the UK, where we aim to be a market leader.”

IHG currently operates 79 Staybridge Suites in America with 52 new properties in the pipeline. Details: www.ichotelsgroup.com