Lylo to launch London expansion of pod hotel concept

LyLo, part of EVT, has kickstarted the global expansion of its pod hotel concept and has chosen London as the potential location of its first European property.

Appointed as sole agent, P-Three, the retail, leisure and placemaking agency, is initially focused on potential sites in Southwark, although other central locations will be considered. LyLo is looking for buildings of 15,000 to 50,000 sq ft to transform into a pod hotel, which could include office or retail conversion projects or appropriate basement space.

Launched in 2022, LyLo is part of EVT, a major Australian operator of cinemas, hotels, restaurants and an alpine resort, with over 80 hotels in Australia, New Zealand and Singapore. LyLo already has operational assets in Auckland, Queenstown and Christchurch, New Zealand, and Brisbane, Australia, comprising 608 pods, 40 private rooms, 170 ensuite rooms and four F&B venues. Two further Australian properties in Gold Coast and Fremantle are in the pipeline.

The LyLo concept is aimed at solo travellers, groups aged 18-35, digital nomads, sports groups and families, providing budget friendly hostel-style accommodation in a design-led and customer-centric setting with onsite coworking, social and wellness spaces.

Pod hotels typically provide a compact space that includes a bed, a secure space to store belongings and often shared amenities such as bathrooms, dining areas and entertainment spaces.

Thomas Rose, co-founder at P-Three, said: “The pod hotel model has proven to be a game-changer in the hospitality space, especially for younger, budget-conscious travellers who often prioritise unique experiences and dynamic, social environments over traditional hotel offerings. With its large and vibrant visitor base, London is the perfect starting point for LyLo’s European expansion and we’re confident that their innovative approach and design-led concept will resonate well in this market. We look forward to working with them to bring it to life.”

Tim Alpe, MD at LyLo, added: “We are thrilled to introduce LyLo to Europe, with London as the perfect city to launch our first property. Our innovative pod hotel concept has already proven successful in New Zealand and Australia, and we are confident that the European market will embrace our unique blend of affordability and community-focused design. London’s dynamic and diverse traveller base makes it an ideal location to begin this exciting new chapter, and we look forward to bringing LyLo’s fresh approach to hospitality to the city.”