1970s Edinburgh office block to reopen as 549-bed ‘hybrid’ hotel this August
“Edinburgh represents an exciting new chapter for Meininger and an important step in our future growth plans” – Ajit Menon, CEO
A new name will enter Edinburgh’s competitive hotel market next month when a major European “hybrid” operator makes its UK debut.
Meininger Hotel Edinburgh Haymarket, which is due to open on August 5 in the city’s west end, will be the group’s 38th hotel within its European portfolio.
The new establishment is located in a 1970s office building that sat empty for several years and has been transformed into a “modern hospitality hub”. It has been developed by S Harrison and built by Ogilvie Construction and will offer 157 rooms and 549 beds.
Ajit Menon, chief executive of Meininger Hotels, said: “Expanding into Edinburgh is a natural next step for our brand. The city boasts steady year-round tourism, excellent transport connections and a diverse mix of visitors.
“We are thrilled to revive a long-dormant building, enhance the local hospitality offering and support the growth of Edinburgh’s tourism economy.”
The hotel promises to combine “comfortable, flexible accommodation with a highly connected location” in the capital’s Haymarket area. The company is behind a hybrid concept that brings together the “quality, privacy and service standards of a hotel with the flexibility and social atmosphere of a hostel”.
The firm currently operates 37 hotels across 27 European cities with Edinburgh becoming property number 38. The UK and Ireland are expected to play an increasingly important role in the group’s growth strategy, with Dublin scheduled to join the portfolio in 2028.
Menon added: “Our strategy is based on sustainable, long-term growth rather than rapid expansion. We continue to invest in destinations where we see long-term potential and where our hybrid concept can offer genuine value to guests.
“Edinburgh represents an exciting new chapter for Meininger and an important step in our future growth plans.”
Ahead of its opening the hotel has recruited an international team of around 20 employees across guest-facing and operational roles.
Hotel manager Will Harrington said: “We’ve focused on building a collaborative and diverse culture from the very beginning. Everyone contributes to the guest experience, and we’re looking forward to welcoming visitors while becoming part of the local community.”
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