Today’s news in brief – 20/5/25
Wilde Aparthotels is expanding into Lisbon, Vienna and Cambridge with three new openings this year. Each property will include fully-equipped kitchens, bespoke furniture, and curated social spaces to appeal to both business and leisure travellers. The Cambridge aparthotel, located near the River Cam and Jesus Green, will offer 229 apartments inspired by the city’s academic legacy, complete with a co-working area, café, and outdoor terrace. In Lisbon’s R. Castilho district, the new 95-unit property will blend oceanic design elements and azulejo tiles, complemented by a versatile social hub with a café, deli, courtyard and co-working mezzanine. Vienna’s Wilde Aparthotel will open in the historic Alte Post building with 136 rooms and apartments influenced by Viennese modernism and café culture, featuring a café, restaurant, and whiskey bar. The brand already operates in cities like London, Berlin, and Manchester.
Leonardo Royal Hotel London St Paul’s has launched a new meetings and events concept called The Hub, following a £758,000 investment. This self-contained facility includes seven modern meeting rooms, a private kitchen area, and a secure entrance. Designed for hybrid events and long-term hire, each space offers contemporary décor, natural daylight, high-speed Wi-Fi, and advanced AV technology. Located near major stations in London’s financial district, The Hub is now bookable via the brand’s Instant Meetings online service.
Rockingham Partners has been appointed to manage Ibis Budget hotels in Leicester and Derby, partnering with owner BZP Hotels. Known for its eco-conscious infrastructure, BZP has installed solar panels, EV chargers, and energy-saving features that cut electricity bills by 20%. The collaboration aims to enhance sustainability and operational performance, combining BZP’s values-led ownership with Rockingham’s guest-focused management expertise.
