PHOTO Gerasimos Ferentinos, General Manager of InterContinental Yorkville and Yola Marshall, Director Commercial Delivery Canada, IHG. (Photo courtesy of IHG Canada)

In the fast-paced world of digital customer service, for some businesses it can be easy to forget the human side of loyalty programs. But while free stays and room upgrades are always a welcome perk for travellers who frequently hit the road, IHG also thanks their customers with a little one-on-one appreciation.

Last month, IHG Canada celebrated its most elite members, The Spire Elite membership, at the InterContinental Yorkville. About 150 people, including Spire Elite members, travel media and general managers from area IHG properties attended the deluxe event held on Toronto Yorkville’s outdoor patio.

Of the Spire Elite (also, previously known as Priority Club) members in attendance, some have been IHG guests for decades, with a number having been members since 1992. Collectively, the group represented 288 years of membership.

To become a Spire Elite member, travellers must stay 75 nights or earn 75,000 Rewards Blubs points at IHG properties in one calendar year. Jointly, the group in attendance has accumulated more than 8 ½ million IHG Rewards Club points.

Attendees were served a deluxe variety of specialties prepared the chefs of the hotel’s Sigantures Restaurant, including, of course, a poutine table.

For more information on joining IHG Rewards Club, visit www.ihg.com/hotels/us/en/rewardsclub/home

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