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News-In-Brief

Today’s news in brief – 22/1/24

In 2024, hotel transactions in North West England totalled approximately £82.5m, slightly down from £85.6m in 2023, according to Savills. Manchester accounted for £31m, with the largest sale being the Travelodge at Piccadilly Gardens for £24m. UK-wide hotel investments reached £5.75bn, doubling 2023 levels and the highest since 2018. This growth was fueled by portfolio transactions, which comprised 55% of investments at £3.14bn. Regional investments totaled £3.34bn, marking a 217% year-on-year increase. Tom Cunningham of Savills highlighted the sector’s resilience and strong investor demand, predicting robust activity into 2025.

Vacation rental platform Belvilla by OYO added two properties in Aberdeen—Belvilla Aberdeen Bridge of Don Exhibition Centre and Sea View—with 130 and 138 rooms respectively. The Exhibition Centre property includes extensive dining and event facilities. This expansion is part of OYO’s broader strategy to strengthen Belvilla’s European presence. Belvilla, founded in 1980, manages over 65,000 holiday homes across 20+ countries and entered the UK market in 2024.

Edyn, a European lifestyle accommodation provider, announced Alastair Thomann as CEO, succeeding interim CEO Daniel Carre-Bishop. Thomann brings extensive experience, including leading Generator and Freehand Hotels, where he achieved record-breaking growth and oversaw a $400m (£323m) acquisition. At Edyn, he will drive new hotel developments, including Locke hotels in Paris (2025) and Copenhagen (2026), and expand the business’s pan-European portfolio, which achieved record performance in 2024. Thomann praised Edyn’s innovation and strong foundations as he joined the team.

Grantley Hall, a luxury English manor-turned-hotel, joined The Leading Hotels of the World, a prestigious consortium representing elite hotels globally. It becomes the only member in England outside London, emphasizing its commitment to excellence. Since a four-year restoration, Grantley Hall has redefined English luxury, earning recognition from Forbes Travel Guide and Walpole. Nuno César de Sá, general manager, expressed pride in joining the group, which highlights Grantley Hall’s blend of timeless elegance and modern luxury.

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