HBI Staff | Hyderabad 
OYO, the global travel tech unicorn, has announced an ambitious EURO 50 million (INR 539.57 crore) investment plan to expand its premium hotel portfolio in the United Kingdom over the next three years. This strategic initiative is set to significantly impact the UK hospitality sector, creating 1,000 jobs while enhancing the country’s tourism infrastructure.
OYO is pivoting towards premium inventory acquisition, focusing on long-term leasehold and management contracts to cater to an evolving market. The company is in advanced discussions with major hotel chains and real estate firms to secure asset management deals. Puneet Yadav, Country Head of OYO UK, highlighted the brand’s commitment to growing its premium segment while continuing to serve budget travelers. Additionally, OYO plans to introduce several popular European brands to the UK, offering a more diversified portfolio.
This investment aligns with the UK’s “Showcase Britain” initiative, designed to boost economic growth through enhanced tourism infrastructure. Baroness Poppy Gustafsson OBE, the UK’s Minister for Investment, praised OYO’s efforts, emphasizing its role in supporting economic objectives and strengthening the hospitality industry.
Since entering the UK market in 2018, OYO has established a presence with over 200 hotels across 65 cities, including key hubs like London, Manchester, Birmingham, Cardiff, and Brighton. Recently, the company announced plans to open more than 40 premium self-operated hotels through leasehold agreements this financial year. Eighteen properties are already onboarded under this model, with plans to add 22 more in cities like Liverpool, Glasgow, Bristol, and Edinburgh.
In 2024, OYO’s parent company, Oravel Stays Limited, made its first move into the UK’s premium market by launching SUNDAY Lansbury Heritage in Canary Wharf, setting the tone for its new focus on upscale hospitality. This strategic expansion underscores OYO’s commitment to meeting the evolving expectations of travelers while contributing to the growth of the global hospitality industry.
