Travelodge, the UK’s biggest independent hotel chain, has today announced that it is continuing to expand in Scotland and is looking for ten new hotel sites across the country. This represents an investment of £75 million and means the creation of 200 new jobs. Positions will include the following: Hotel Manager, Assistant Hotel Manager, Receptionists, Housekeeper and Guest Room Cleaners.
Travelodge introduced the budget (value) hotel concept in Scotland back in 1986 when it opened its first hotel in Stirling. Today, the chain operates 40 hotels and has expanded beyond its traditional roadside locations into key city centre and tourist locations, and is the largest hotel operator in Edinburgh with eleven hotels across the capital.
Peter Gowers, Travelodge Chief Executive said:
“There is a big opportunity to further expand in Scotland. At present, the value hotel market in Scotland stands at 14 per cent, compared to 18 per cent in England and more than 30 per cent in the US. By 2030, the budget hotel sector could account for almost a quarter of the UK market, with a similar level of growth expected in Scotland.”
Locations include the fifth Travelodge in the city of Aberdeen, as well as popular tourist locations such as Oban and St Andrews. Other locations are Peterhead, East Kilbride, Falkirk, Hamilton, Wishaw, Motherwell and North Ayrshire.
In addition to today’s announcement, Travelodge has also invested £4 million in the last 12 months into modernising over half of its Scottish hotels with a new contemporary look – which has been designed by the Travelodge customers. This initiative includes revamping Travelodge rooms, Bar Cafes and reception areas. The new modern Travelodge room includes a bespoke luxurious king size bed called the Travelodge Dreamer bed. (See notes to editors for details on the new look Travelodge room)
This modernisation programme is part of a wider £57 million refurbishment investment Travelodge is currently undertaking throughout the UK. By autumn this year, over 80% of Travelodge rooms will feature new modern room.
