Locke Aparthotels reveals UK expansion plans

Hospitality operator Edyn has announced the opening dates and first images of the rollout of its aparthotel brand Locke, with new sites set to open across the UK and internationally throughout 2021. According to the group, Locke “elevates the traditional aparthotel model” by combining self-contained studio apartments, complete with fully fitted kitchens, living areas and laundry facilities, with “dynamic, experiential social spaces” typical of a lifestyle hotel. The aparthotel sites also partner with up-and-coming designers and disruptive food and drink partners to give each location its “own character and style”. Edyn added that the brand’s concept appeals to a broad range of travellers, including both business and leisure guests and accommodating long- and short-term stays. Interest in this new format reportedly grew throughout 2020, as four new Locke properties opened over the course of the year. Across the edyn portfolio, which also includes serviced apartment brand SACO, The Moorgate and Wittenberg, occupancy for 2020 averaged 65%. Openings in 2021 will now include a further two locations in London, a new property in Cambridge and the European expansion of the brand into Germany and Ireland. Amongst the new sites is the Kingland Locke, located in Dalston, which is set to launch to consumer audiences in May 2021. The aparthotel will house 124 contemporary studio apartments, as well as complimentary co-working space, on-site microbrewery and gin distillery, all-day restaurant, workout studio and coffee shop. In addition, the Turing Locke in Cambridge will feature 180 of Locke’s signature fully fitted contemporary studio apartments along with a seasonal rooftop terrace and courtyard, all-day restaurant, cocktail bar, coffee shop, retail space, co-working area, workout studio and meeting space. It is set to open in September 2021. Stephen McCall, CEO of edyn, said: “After demonstrating the resilience and adaptability of our business model throughout the pandemic, we’re excited to share further details of our Locke openings in 2021, which promises to be an exceptional year of growth for the brand across Europe. “As international business and leisure travel reawakens, we are seeing new trends, tastes and priorities emerging. Locke’s hybrid home-meets-hotel concept has never felt more relevant, and we’re looking forward to expanding the brand into new markets to meet traveller demand for more spacious, self-contained accommodation.”