#China #Shanghai #hospitality #H World Group #Ji Qi

H World Group's 20th Anniversary: A New Era of Quality-Driven Growth

On November 3, 2025, H World Group Limited (NASDAQ: HTHT) celebrated two decades of growth and innovation in the global hospitality industry. The event coincided with the company's announcement of an ambitious Quality-Driven Growth Strategy aimed at significantly expanding its operations in the coming years.

Founder and Executive Chairman Ji Qi shared his unwavering faith in the future of the Chinese hospitality and economy during the Partners Day event held in Shanghai. Expressing long-term optimism, Qi emphasized the vast potential of the industry, stating, "The real opportunities lie in supply-side reform."

Growth Plan: Vision 2030

H World Group announced plans to operate over 20,000 hotels across 2,000 cities in China by 2030, targeting a market share of about 15%. The strategic framework of this ambitious vision revolves around three core pillars:

1. Brand Leadership: H World boasts a diverse multi-brand portfolio, which includes well-known names such as Hanting, JI Hotel, and Orange Hotel. This diverse offerings cater to a wide range of consumers, from budget travelers to luxury seekers.
2. Membership Advantage: With more than 280 million members, the H Rewards program has established itself as the world's largest hotel loyalty platform. This initiative not only drives direct bookings but also fosters repeat visits, enhancing customer loyalty.
3. Technology Backbone: The company has developed a comprehensive digital platform that empowers real-time management of bookings, operations, and analytics. This technological infrastructure is designed to enhance guest experiences and support franchise partners.

Reflecting on Achievements

The anniversary celebration highlighted H World Group's remarkable journey from opening its first hotel in 2005 to managing over 12,000 properties across 19 countries. In achieving this scale, H World has played a substantial role in the industry, welcoming over two billion guests and generating industry investments exceeding RMB 300 billion.

According to HOTELS Magazine 2025, H World Group currently ranks 4th globally among hotel groups by room count, with Hanting identified as the world's largest single hotel brand. Additionally, JI Hotel has secured a spot in the top five globally.

In expressing H World’s future goals, Ji Qi reiterated the company's commitment to quality growth, stating, "Our mission is to make 'Chinese hospitality' resonate globally and to create inspiring spaces that redefine travel experiences in China and worldwide."

Looking Ahead

The company's new strategic plan signals a transformative phase aimed at solidifying H World Group’s stature within the international hospitality landscape. As H World Group prepares for the next twenty years, their focus on quality and innovation sets a promising trend for the evolving hospitality industry.

With nearly 4,000 franchisees, investors, and partners attending the anniversary, the event marked not just a celebration of past accomplishments but also a commitment to what's next for H World Group. Their approach in navigating market changes shows readiness and adaptability, which may serve as a blueprint for future success in the hospitality sector.

For more information on H World Group, please visit their official website.