As a relatively new customer of IHG (previously staying at mainly Hilton family hotels) I think the new program seems to offer some good upgrades over the past.
I agree that it may mean lounges get worse over time as they are busier. Some hotels seem to have closed them completely after the pandemic which is a shame.
I am wondering whether those who have more than 20 nights this year already will get their suite upgrade benefit or whether they will have to get to 40 nights to get one. Also whether "junior" or "studio" suites will count I'm guessing they will. I wonder if we will know in advance what kind of suite is confirmed and whether a decision can be made after this information is available?