Global hotel giant IHG told CNBC a “growing middle class” is boosting travel demand, as it reported a boost in profits despite the Middle East conflict. The U.K. company, owner of brands like Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Crowne Plaza, and Six Senses, reported Tuesday that operating profits from reportable segments grew 10% in the first half of the year to $665 million. “People that are rising in wellbeing, rising in wealth, retiring, doing well in their careers around the world, the growing middle class — they want to spend more on experiences than they want to spend on goods and we’re at the heart of the experience economy,” he said.