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Village Hotel Club has announced the launch of a major investment plan which will see more than 50% of its portfolio upgraded.
The upgrade includes bedroom and facility extensions, refurbishments to existing bedrooms, upgraded facilities and acquisitions.
Earlier this year, Village was acquired by real estate funds managed by Blackstone, an alternative asset manager, with plans to grow Village’s UK footprint and brand.
The first phase of refurbishment is set to be completed in early 2025, which will see nearly 600 rooms fully refurbished.
Village is also investing heavily in its leisure facilities, with multiple gym expansions and refurbishments, whilst adding new facilities, including Reformer Pilates, Padel Courts, recovery lounges, outdoor fitness and new changing rooms, alongside refurbished and extended Starbucks at several locations.
Extending and growing the portfolio through acquisitions is a key part of Village’s growth strategy. Construction will soon start on the approved extensions of Village Hotel Club in Ashton, Manchester and Solihull, which will see an additional 48 bedrooms in each. A further three locations are expected to be extended in 2025.
The launch of the plan coincides with the appointment of Robin Leahy in the newly created role of director of M&A, who will lead the business’s ambitious growth plans.
Leahy has more than a decade of experience working within the real estate and development sector.
Most notably, he previously led the acquisitions and development strategy of select-service hotel platform Atlas Hotels Group – part of London and Regional Properties – where he was responsible for acquiring hotels and negotiating development funding for new hotels throughout the UK.
In his new role, he will lead the strategic expansion of the existing Village portfolio and actively seek opportunities to develop the business’s pipeline further.
Gary Davis, CEO of Village Hotel Club, said: “There really is nothing quite like Village Hotel Club. We believe that our “everything under one roof” ethos offers a fantastic experience for all, whether you’re a business traveller looking for a place to stay, someone in the local community in need of high-quality gym facilities, or just in search of a coffee break.
“With Blackstone’s partnership we see significant opportunities to grow our business and brand, including investing in our existing hotels and leisure clubs to add more value to guests. I am delighted that Robin has joined the team and will lead us in growing our footprint with acquisitions and new development opportunities across the UK.”
