Six Continents runs the world's largest hotel group - including the Intercontinental and Crowne Plaza chains - as well as an expansive pub portfolio which encompass the O'Neills, All Bar One and Harvester chains. It admitted its plans in October to divide itself into two individually listed companies. It has invested a net ¡ê2.8bn in its businesses since 1998 and yet seen operating profit lower by ¡ê217m. Six Continents' demerger proposals are but the latest in a series of decisions, which have failed to deliver purpose.