Serviced Accommodation Guide 2025

THE 2025 GUIDE TO

SERVICED ACCOMMODATION

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Welcome

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Welcome to the 2025 Guide to Serviced Accommodation, brought to you by The Business Travel Magazine

The 2025 Guide to Serviced Accommodation is brought to you by BMI Publishing, producers of The Business Travel Magazine. Print ISSN 1754-8543.

501 The Residence, No. 1 Alexandra Terrace, Guildford, GU1 3DA.UK. Tel: 020 8649 7233 enquiries@bmipublishing.co.uk

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OVERVIEW

An introduction to the benefits of using serviced accommodation, why it's an increasingly integral part of a corporate travel programme, plus key trends

SUSTAINABILITY

How serviced accommodation providers are helping corporates meet their sustainability goals and measure the environmental impact of their stays

TECHNOLOGY

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An update on the technological developments which are improving the sourcing and booking of serviced accommodation and the guest experience

PROGRAMMES

Six experts, including two travel buyers, share their top tips on how to effectively incorporate serviced accommodation into a corporate travel programme

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WHAT'S NEW

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DIRECTORY

LOCKE

An overview of the most exciting serviced apartment openings in the UK, Europe and further afield

A list of the key players in serviced accommodation, including apartment brands, specialist agencies and more

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erviced accommodation meets many requirements of the new ways of travelling for work and is now a key part of the accommodation mix. Whether you're considering extended-stay options for the first time, or looking to take your corporate travel programme to the next level, this is essential reading.

The guide, now in its 13th year, explores the major trends and developments in the sector, shares expert tips on how to incorporate serviced accommodation into your travel programme, and introduces you to the major players.

With sustainability and duty of care firmly on the corporate agenda, the guide outlines how providers are fulfilling the demands of travel managers and their travellers.

It also charts developments in technology which are making it easier to source and book extended-stay accommodation, from serviced apartments and co-living spaces to aparthotels from major hotel brands.

Our guide is packed with information and insights into this key sector. Read on...

CONTENTS FRASERS

INSIDE

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WRITTEN BY Catherine Chetwynd and Bev Fearis EDITOR Bev Fearis PUBLISHER Kirsty Hicks EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Steve Hartridge DESIGNERS Colette Denham and Caitlan Francis OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Clare Hunter

PRODUCTION CONTROLLER Steve Hunter MANAGING DIRECTOR Matt Bonner

Images courtesy of suppliers as indicated and also sourced from istockphoto.com and bigstock.com.

While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, BMI Publishing Ltd cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions.

Cover Images: From top clockwise: Wilde London Liverpool Street, Bigstock, StayCity-Wilde, Frasers Hospitality - Fraser Suites Diplomatic Area, Bahrain.

2025 GUIDE TO SERVICED ACCOMMODATION

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Overview

WORK-LIFE

BALANCE

Serviced accommodation meets many of the needs of today’s business travellers

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ravelling for work is changing as the sharper corporate focus on greater productivity, wellbeing and sustainability means executives are taking fewer, longer trips and often combining them with leisure travel.

With space to work, fully-equipped kitchens, separate sitting rooms and other home-from-home comforts, serviced accommodation fits the requirements of these new ways of travelling, helping to, increasing travellers’ productivity and wellbeing and removing some of the carbon-heavy frills of hotel stays, such as daily housekeeping and F&B. Chris Orme, Global Sales and Business Development Director for edyn, expects serviced accommodation to become an increasingly vital segment for corporate travel managers across both SMEs and larger enterprises. “The growing importance of the sector will be primarily driven by a rise in consumer demand as business travel increases, growing consumer awareness of the products on offer, and the improvement of those products as providers move towards lifestyle-oriented and experiential offerings,” he explains.

Orme believes multi-property providers will flourish, as they are able to provide the consistency across different sites.

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“This is important when quality assurance and traveller safety are front of mind for many,” he adds.

Dominic Sherry, CEO of Viridian Apartments, says demand for serviced accommodation is strong. “Savills recently reported that investment activity is expected to pick up in 2025, driven by an increase in stock and sustained investor interest – a clear indicator of growing demand for this asset class,” he says.

From a corporate buyer’s viewpoint, there are potential cost savings too. Serviced apartments can incur a lower daily cost thanks to kitchens and onsite laundry facilities, bringing savings of up to 30% for

PREM GROUP

companies, according to AltoVita, and rates go down as the length of stay goes up.

The extended-stay sector comprises different concepts – serviced apartments (self-contained units), aparthotels (serviced apartments with some or all of the facilities of a hotel), and serviced accommodation with co-working spaces. Meanwhile, some of the larger hotel brands are moving into

Many co-living spaces organise social and networking events in order to build a community and engagement among residents” FRASERS

PREM GROUP

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Overview

VIRIDIAN

LOCKE PARIS

extended stay, especially in the US. Together these cater for most corporate requirements, whether project teams, employees relocating and those on shorter business trips.

According to a report by the Association of Serviced Apartment Providers, business travellers represent 45% of guests, 23% are relocating, 27% are leisure travellers – a growing segment thanks to the increasingly blurred line between business and leisure travel – leaving 5% as ‘other’.

The report also identifies the emergence of co-living or co-working areas, where compact units are complemented by larger public spaces designed to foster a sense of community among tenants. “Many co-living spaces organise social and networking events in order to build a community and engagement among residents,” it notes.

Recognising that being away from home can be difficult, PREM Group has created Life at PREMIER SUITES “to make guests' stays as enjoyable, relaxing and productive as possible”, says Joanna Doyle, Sales and Marketing Manager Ireland & UK. This includes ergonomic workspaces, in-room workout guides, partnerships with local gyms and mapped running and walking routes. Homegrown Greens provides herbs and vegetables in lobbies and gardens for guests to pick, and PS Social brings regular in-house social and networking gatherings. PREMIER SUITES also shares recommendations for cafés, shops and cultural experiences and Solo by PREMIER SUITES ensures lone travellers enjoy personalised recommendations, additional safety features, and other thoughtful touches.

FRASERS

FRASER SUITES RIYADH

Policy driven

Where serviced accommodation fits into a corporate travel policy is not consistent.

According to AltoVita, policies often recommend serviced apartments only for stays of seven or more nights but SilverDoor sees a steady growth in enquiries worldwide for transient stays, with those for less than seven nights increasing 64% year-on-year for 2023-2024.

According to the Global Serviced Apartment Industry Report 2024 (GSAIR), buyer reasons for choosing serviced apartments over any other accommodation are policy compliance, location and traveller safety – in that order.

The report states that 62.5% of travel buyers used serviced apartments for business travel, down from 73.68% in 2023, excluding use for assignments, which is up 4.61% to 62.5%. In addition, 80% of buyers say their average length of stay is unlikely to

change, against 44.44% in 2023; the remaining 20% predict it will be longer.

Booking serviced accommodation can be done through an agency, which takes responsibility for vetting properties; direct with operators, allowing negotiations on smaller programmes; and through TMCs and OTAs, which facilitate integrating serviced apartments into a larger programme.

“Many TMCs now integrate serviced apartments into their offerings and our recent partnership with HotelREZ provides easy access and booking of our serviced apartments through GDS,” says Viridian's Dominic Sherry.

Jess Dunderdale, Senior Director of Client Partnerships for agency AltoVita, recommends consolidating procurement similar to hotel programmes to negotiate the best rates and terms, while ensuring quality standards and streamlined tracking.

“The higher the volumes, the better rates corporate buyers can negotiate with suppliers,” she explains. The company sees increasing consolidation of hotel and extended-stay programmes to deliver an accommodation programme.

CEO of CAP Worldwide Jo Layton counsels: “Choose wisely; ensure you and your agent are aligned in goals and aspirations."

Rebecca Hollants Van Loocke, COO EMEA for Frasers Hospitality, advises: “Relationships with specialist agencies and TMCs allow businesses to streamline the booking process, ensuring access to competitive rates and a comprehensive range of properties. These partnerships simplify procurement and ensure that serviced apartments fit perfectly into broader travel strategies.”

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Sustainability

VIRIDIAN

CORE

VALUES

A commitment to sustainability is now firmly ingrained in the serviced accommodation sector SYNERGY

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here sustainability was once just a box to tick, today it is essential that buyers – and their suppliers – have a credible and comprehensive policy. In addition to accreditations, some providers have introduced their own measures to make the footprint of each stay more transparent.

SilverDoor launched a Carbon Calculator in November 2023 to provide an estimate of the CO2 emissions produced per night in each unit. The platform also allows bookers to compare potential emissions from booking by region, number of nights and accommodation type (studio, onebed, and so on).

Clients can analyse the estimated CO2 footprint in tonnes from stays across the SilverDoor portfolio and their apartment programme, and see estimated emissions in real time by country per month.

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This way they can identify locations that cost their programme in CO2 and calculate where switching from hotels to apartments would give best benefit in savings.

Independently verified

CAP Worldwide holds the EcoVadis Gold Medal for Sustainable Processes and Procedures. EcoVadis, which evaluates companies in four main ESG areas – environment, labour and human rights, ethics, and sustainable procurement – provides assessments for CAP to ensure RFP/RFI or general questions with regards to sustainability and practices are independently measured and available online for clients to see.

CAP is also a protagonist of the CHPA Carbon Calculator for the industry to allow one measure throughout. In development for the past two years, the first iteration is planned for Connect25, San Diego, in April.

Frasers Hospitality has achieved BREEAM In-Use certifications on all its owned properties in the UK and on more than 90% of those in EMEA. It is aiming for at least 85% of owned properties worldwide to have green building certifications before 2030, aligning with its goal to achieve net zero carbon by 2050. Its sustainability dashboard allows every property to track, analyse and reduce its environmental impact across Scopes 1, 2 and 3 categories.

As part of its plans to be fully net zero by 2030, B Corp Lamington Group has Platinum Greengage ECOsmart Accreditation for room2 Belfast, BREEAM Excellent for room2 Chiswick, and Green Tourism Gold Rating and the BSI PAS 2060 carbon neutrality accreditation for the entire room2 brand. “For measuring and managing environmental impact,

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sustainability needs to be at the heart of every decision," says Lamington Group Managing Director Stuart Godwin.

"It’s a journey and we never stop learning. Get your team involved as it’s always a team effort."

Lamington Hometels run on 100% electric and carbon neutral renewable energy and eliminate waste by circulating products and materials.

Mansley Serviced Apartments has Green Tourism and Greengage certifications. Its Head of Sustainability David Wright says: “I make monthly records of emissions from areas I feel we are able to influence directly, including business, employee and guest travel, utility consumption and waste management where we can get data.

"I have created a dashboard to be able to monitor this and that feeds into our Scope 1, 2 and 3 carbon footprint report at the end of our financial year. So far, we have conducted two reports; the second plugs the gaps of our first, and that will serve as our benchmark."

For measuring and managing environmental impact, sustainability needs to be at the heart of every decision” Wright advises buyers: “Pick some big ticket items to measure and monitor, and once you are happy with mastering those, add a few more into the mix until you eventually have a comprehensive reporting schedule.”

PREMIER SUITES is accredited by Green Tourism and Green Key. “We are committed to reducing our carbon footprint, offering plastic-free stays, refillable toiletries, and promoting energy efficiency,” says Joanna Doyle, Group Sales and Marketing Manager for

ROOM2 CHISWICK

parent PREM Group UK & Ireland.

Synergy achieved a Silver EcoVadis rating in 2024. Other activity includes working with Gifts for Good, providing gifts to support global non-profit organisations, and supporting food donation projects by employees.

“While environmental sustainability remains critical, I anticipate investment in meaningful social and governance considerations will become more and more prevalent,” says Synergy GM and Sustainability co-Lead Charlotte Winter.

With us, you’re at the centre.

We’ve spent 25 years creating the very best comfortable, convenient, and connected apartments.

Chancery Lane

With hundreds of serviced apartments available for long and short stays, reach out to our team to plan an upcoming trip: +44 (0)20 3743 0331 reservations@viridianapartments.com www.viridianapartments.com Untitled-3 1 SAG25 Sustainability V8.indd 7

Commercial Road London City East

Serviced apartments across London and Southeast UK

Effortless places that make your life a little easier - with the furnishings, features and amenities that matter most. And connected places, in the best central locations.

Places where attention to detail, meets the homely comfort of your own private space. Where a dedicated service team works tirelessly, to make sure your stay feels easy and stress free.

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TEAM

TALK

Inclusivity, accessibility and emotional intelligence are at the core of the culture and ethos at CAP Worldwide.

We check in with the CAPCrew...

At CAP, nobody is left behind and everybody is invited to be at our table”

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CAP Worldwide

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commitment to inclusivity and equity is at the heart of CAP Worldwide, a fully-certified women-owned business that simplifies and demystifies the extended-stay space.

Here we chat with some of the team to see what's driving them to support buyers, bookers and travellers.

'THE INCLUSIVE ENVIRONMENT HELPS TO KEEP CAP AT THE TIP OF THE SPEAR' Jo Layton, CEO of CAP Worldwide With the current geopolitical landscape continuing to challenge the ideals, goals and aspirations of many companies working across the globe. I’m so proud of CAPCrew members who are successfully futureproofing programmes, and who believe that working in a highly-experienced, professional, accessible, diverse and inclusive culture is helping them to provide – every day – the professional services and support to our valued global clients that ensure savings, sustainability and ultimately safe and happy travellers.

‘I BELIEVE THAT CAP DOESN'T JUST TALK ABOUT DOING THE RIGHT THING — IT ACTIVELY EMBODIES IT’ Francine Migliorati, Global Implementation Director In a world where values sometimes get overshadowed by bottom lines, I wanted to be part of an organisation that prioritises integrity, transparency and social responsibility, whether it's how it treats its employees, its approach to sustainable practices or its dedication to ethical business decisions. The CAP ethos of ‘doing what’s right’ has had a profound impact on how I approach my work and find solutions for clients. Staying flexible and truly listening to their unique needs and always striving to find the best fit – even if it means adjusting our approach – is the right way to build strong, trusting relationships rooted in integrity and mutual respect.

‘AT CAP YOU ARE NOT A PROVIDER, YOU ARE A PARTNER AND WE’RE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER’ Dan Woodburn, Global Brand Partner Director Working with or within CAP has been designed to be a

SPONSORED

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positive and inclusive journey for those with the desire to seek the freedom to express their personality and ideas. The ‘At CAP You’re Welcome' programme enables us to not only work with some of the industry’s most wellknown accommodation providers, but also those hidden gems who may be overlooked by our competition. Using education, guidance and our own experience, we include and promote operators from all walks of life, all over the world, offering the same opportunities to all because at CAP, nobody is left behind and everybody is invited to be at our table.

‘WE ARE NOT MERELY SEEN AS RESOURCES BUT AS VALUABLE CONTRIBUTORS TO CAP’S SUCCESS’ Vishita Patel, Senior Reservations Consultant CAP has provided me with a truly supportive work environment, always making me feel valued and motivated. I take a personalised approach with my clients, which helps me to understand each traveller’s unique perspective and tailor communication to meet their specific needs.

I’m 100% committed to understanding and addressing clients' emotions, and ensuring they always feel heard and valued. Every day I experience invaluable exposure to situations that require unique perspectives to address effectively, and I always use my core strengths of empathy, adaptability, and building great relationships. This approach has been key to both my growth and CAP’s growth, reinforcing my reliability and our dedication to delivering excellent service.

‘IT’S A COMPANY WHERE MY CONTRIBUTIONS ARE VALUED AND I AM ABLE TO REACH MY FULL POTENTIAL’ Simon Beauchamp, Global Corporate Account Director One of the main reasons I joined CAP is because it offers a dynamic and supportive matrix management environment that fosters collaboration, growth and teamwork. This diverse, agile and inclusive approach to leadership empowers me to thrive and work with multiple teams, gaining insights from various perspectives. Having an analytical and questioning mentality allows me and our CAPCrew to approach challenges with a problem-solving mindset, always ensuring we provide thorough supported solutions. It

also encourages continuous improvement by identifying potential inefficiencies and opportunities for innovation. This helps me personally to make data-driven decisions, foster collaboration and contribute to more effective outcomes for our valued clients.

‘CAP IS NOT JUST A JOB; IT IS A PLACE WHERE I BELONG AND WHERE I CAN BE UNAPOLOGETICALLY ME’ Tim Munemo, Account Director TMCs When you join CAP you realise ‘At CAP - YOU are Welcome’ is not just a slogan, it’s real. We all have a responsibility to give back, and support our people and our clients, in whatever capacity we can. CAP gives us the space, accessibility and opportunity to do that. CAP has stayed true to its values and has encouraged me to be present for my clients and, importantly, my daughter. Now that was a game-changer! Six months into my role I found myself at a crossroads. I had always thrived in corporate sales but felt I wasn’t in my element any more. Discussing this with the leadership, not only did I have a supported transition into a role working with TMCs that plays 100% to my strengths, I also moved to a position where I can collaborate with my peers, leverage my ability and truly shine.

‘CAP ALLOWS ME TO CARE ABOUT THE RELATIONSHIPS WE BUILD AND DEVELOP’ Kate Scott, Client Services Director I joined CAP because it allows me to be me, and to be afforded the autonomy to make decisions that keep both our people and travellers safe, secure and looked after through our CAPCares programme. I am passionate about doing the right thing and being part of a team that is creative and authentic. Being ‘in the moment’ of solving a problem is what makes me tick – the joy, the excitement, or the ease on the faces of those relationships when we make problems go away and the relief they feel when we tell them ‘we’ve got them’ is my driving passion in getting up every day and being part of the CAPCrew. capww.com

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Technology

A w S

EASY

ACCESS

Technological developments are helping buyers source and book serviced accommodation CITY SUITES

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raditionally, sourcing and booking extended-stay accommodation has not been as straightforward as sourcing and booking hotels, so corporates have been less likely to include serviced apartments in their programmes.

GDS or online booking tools are not set up to include facilities such as laundry or co-working spaces, even less long stays, or inventory in secondary or tertiary locations.

But technology is fast emerging that’s making serviced accommodation more accessible.

“API connections and other modern booking tools are making it easier to integrate serviced accommodation into travel programmes,” says Jo Webb, Head of OrbiRelo, a specialist in temporary living accommodation solutions.

“These technologies enable real-time access to inventory, detailed property descriptions and seamless booking, simplifying the process for both travel managers and travellers.”

Optimised websites and mobile apps are enabling smoother booking journeys”

End-to-end users

AI is helping to enhance personalisation, customising accommodation to traveller preferences such as favoured amenities, proximity to work locations and past booking behaviour, ultimately improving satisfaction and building loyalty.

Optimised websites and mobile apps are enabling smoother booking journeys, while integrations with GDS providers and OTAs offer access to vast inventories.

Mansley Serviced Apartments’ app provides everything from information, guides and recommendations to check-in and digital keys, while hospitality platform

NUMA’s acquisition of Native Places brought digital check-in and check-out and keyless access to real-time updates, bringing greater efficiencies for bookers and travellers.

“At Frasers Hospitality, we advocate for solutions enhanced by AI-driven analytics that can provide predictive insights and customise stays based on traveller history and preferences. This ensures efficiency for buyers without compromising on personalisation and traveller satisfaction,” says Rebecca Hollants Van Loocke.

MANSLEY

STAYSITU

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All the freedom of an apartment, with hotel comforts.

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Technology

SYNERGY

API connections and other modern booking tools are making it easier to integrate serviced accommodation into travel programmes”

Situ’s booking platform Xenia harnesses AI, cloud computing and a variety of integrations to ensure effortless booking.

But AI does raise the spectre of data security and privacy issues, especially as data breaches are increasingly common and generally target guest details, so high standards of data protection are crucial.

The expense of deploying cutting-edge technology, which includes staff training and ongoing maintenance, is another potential drawback.

In addition, while some travellers may want and expect to have a highly individual user-experience in the palm of their hand, others may find AI-driven detailed personalisation intrusive.

“The human understanding of employees and their preferences will be an essential skill for businesses and accommodation providers,” says Paul Lynch, Situ Director of Product and Development.

Customer care

FRASERS

VERTUS CANARY WHARF

AI is also powering automated customer support, which helps with enquiries and booking difficulties. It not only streamlines the process but frees up staff to look after customers.

Room2’s AI-powered HiJiffy, for example, allows instant communication with guests from the company’s website. Customers can ask questions, make bookings, receive personalised recommendations and request services and in real time.

“The tool not only drives efficiency but also improves guest experience, which is a key factor in considering any new tech,” says Stuart Godwin, Managing Director of the brand’s parent Lamington Group.

Technology is also facilitating integration.

“Several global and regional booking platforms have incorporated multiple sources of extended-stay accommodation

into a single interface; they bring together serviced apartments, holiday rentals, corporate housing and hotels,” says Aaron Turner, Chief Technology Officer at Synergy.

Gary Hurst, founder and CEO Mysa, is predicting a "revolutionary transformation".

"Advanced technology platforms will begin to empower travel managers to streamline their entire accommodation strategy through single automated RFP processes and intelligent procurement workflows, with rate structures for longer-stay properties," he says. "Technology is finally catching up to provide the tools needed for effective programme management, true rate transparency and optimised procurement strategies."

But Carrie Hartman, President at 3Sixty, warns: “While technology has made sourcing serviced apartments easier than ever, some challenges persist. One example is integrating serviced accommodation platforms into existing corporate travel ecosystems, which can lead to fragmented workflows and inefficiencies.

“The solution lies in choosing technology providers who prioritise seamless integrations, whether through APIs, custom reporting tools, or centralised dashboards, so that managers get a unified view of their travel programmes,” she says.

Going it alone when booking can also be high risk legally. “Adhering to local regulations should include ensuring that all accommodation booked is legal and has been verified for health, safety, security and sustainability,” advises Jo Layton, CEO of CAP Worldwide.

“There are platforms or aggregators that boast high levels of inventory with ‘easy to view and book’ ability but unless the corporate can guarantee that these products have been verified as safe, secure and legal, they can represent a high risk.”

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Programmes

BEST

POLICIES

Six experts share their advice on how to incorporate serviced accommodation into a travel programme

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No matter how large or small your extendedstay programme is, focus on getting the policy right. If a programme is to achieve true success and global adoption, buyers need to ensure the company travel policy for stays over the chosen length of stay is worded strongly enough to mandate usage of the programme, and without the travellers being able to find loopholes. And, of course, ensure there are consequences to not complying. Companies we work with who have strong policies 100% reap the benefits of high savings opportunities across key markets – in some areas up to 40% versus a hotel stay. Secondly, use an experienced and proactive agent to help drive your programmes and achieve maximum savings, safety and support. Management of the programme and information shared during reviews are a two-way street.

A high percentage of excellent extended-stay supply is still not easily bookable through the GDS. Jo Layton, CEO CAP Worldwide

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Define serviced accommodation (e.g. self-contained and fully furnished accommodation with 24/7 support, cleaning and kitchen facilities) to ensure compliance and overcome variable standards and services. State when they are most appropriate (minimum number of nights, projects, etc.). Negotiate corporate rates and favourable terms for frequent bookings. Ensure shortlisted providers are vetted and comply with your organisation's duty of care requirements, understand your travellers’ standard of living expectations (on-site gym, 24-hour reception, etc.) and align with your company's ESG commitments.

Explicitly mention serviced apartments in your travel policy, establishing clear spending limits for them based on location, style and job level. Define the approval process and specify how travellers should book them, whether that’s via an OBT or with an approved provider. Gavin Pereira, Managing Director, Checkin Apartments

Explicitly mention serviced apartments in your travel policy, establishing clear spending limits”

LOCKE

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Integrating serviced apartments into a travel programme or policy can provide increased flexibility and choice to travellers. Knowing who is travelling, where to, and for how long, will indicate the types of accommodation to offer. Consider your capacity to manage the programme yourself – juggling property providers, multiple credit terms and whether you can go outside the usual supply chain, if

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Programmes

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At GE Vernova, we believe integrating serviced apartments into a corporate travel programmes enhances cost efficiency, comfort and flexibility.

Start by identifying a preferred agent that aligns with company policies on budget, safety and sustainability. Work with your selected provider to negotiate corporate rates and ensure properties meet duty-ofcare standards, including 24/7 support and secure access (to name just a few).

Encourage traveller adoption by promoting the benefits – spacious living, self-catering, and home-from-home amenities.

Streamline the reservations process to integrate them into your systems and ensure compliance. Check your internal travel policy supports your goals. Always establish clear guidelines on when serviced apartments are preferable over hotels, such as stays exceeding 14 nights, and remember to gather traveller feedback to refine the programme and ensure satisfaction. Finally, maintain strong supplier relationships to optimise service levels, availability, and cost savings over time. Bernadette Basterfield, Executive Global Sourcing – Travel/Meetings & Fleet, GE Vernova

Be sure to analyse your providers' capacity beyond simply booking online”

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required. Alternatively, work with an agency, or a hybrid which combines agency with property management. It is vital that travellers communicate what they are looking for (24-hour reception desk, gym, etc.) so that you can balance the needs and expectations of assignees (according to seniority) with available budgets. Consolidating different types of travel into one programme will impact guest experience and may allow cost efficiencies to be made. James Connell, Account Director, Global Mobility, Situ

Above all else, identify your priorities and invest in a consultative partnership where your vision, culture and objectives are central to your accommodation programme. Next, identify which priorities are nice to have and which are non-negotiable. If cost is your number one requirement, for example, it’s important your service provider is aware of this to best meet your needs with efficiency and speed.

Finally, identify a partner who can bring a broad spectrum of capabilities to your programme. If your main concern is to book online, for example, be sure to analyse your providers' capacity beyond simply booking online. Ask questions about how they respond to crises, manage suppliers, manage large volumes of guests, protect your data, ensure exemplary guest services and so on.

Sofia Oragano, Senior Director, International Sales, Synergy

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At Fidelity, we have an ‘accommodations programme’ because we don’t believe you should differentiate. We work with a single provider using accommodation we have selected and agreed. Our TMC is not involved. The policy is based on the number of days away (i.e. five days plus). If a serviced apartment is available then it should be selected in the first instance, but this is not a mandate. Apartments are not included in the booking tool.

Although some can be booked in GDS, we find this can be confusing for our users, so we have separated serviced apartments from hotels for booking. However, they all sit under the ‘accommodation’ banner for visibility and choice. Our policy talks about acclimatising, wellbeing, worklife balance and choice, and that helps us reduce our costs and maintain our sustainability targets. To achieve all this, clear and frequent communication is necessary and we make it clear why we include serviced apartments in our travel policy. They are more spacious than hotels, with home-like amenities, giving travellers greater convenience, and can save the business money in the long term.

Carol Fergus, Director, Global Travel, Events and Ground Transportation, Fidelity

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What's new

OPENING

DOORS

The choice of serviced accommodation is widening as development continues at pace across the globe

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ith demand for serviced accommodation showing no signs of slowing down, the major players continue to expand their presence in the UK, continental Europe and beyond, while more newcomers enter the space.

In the UK, Adagio is opening its fourth aparthotel in London with Adagio Original London City East, close to the Tower of London. The property has a mixture of regular and co-living apartments. Both have kitchen and bathrooms, and the co-living facilities have up to four bedrooms around a large common living area, suitable for work teams. There is also a 24/7 reception service.

FRASERS

CHEVAL MAISON

Vertus Edit opened its first aparthotel in February 2025 at London's Canary Wharf, with 378 studios across two buildings. It has communal lounges, terraces, bookable meeting rooms/dining rooms, co-working spaces, a gym and an expertlycurated events programme for guests.

With no minimum stay requirements, Vertus Edit is aimed at short and mid-term visitors and will be available on Global Distribution Systems (GDS), with special rates through major consortia programmes.

Rapid growth

Ascott is expanding its Citadines and lyf brands apace. In 2024, Citadines opened in Amsterdam, Vienna, Singapore and DD Port Dalian, China, and this year Racine Casablanca, Morocco, follows.

Lyf launched in Frankfurt last year and will introduce properties in Paris, Tokyo and Sydney in 2025, and in Bali in 2026.

Partnerships are at the hub of Ascott’s UK growth, typical of which is its relationship with Chelsea Football Club, where the company manages the 232-unit Stamford Bridge hotel, to be rebranded lyf this year.

Nearby, Native Places is opening on Fulham Broadway in 2025 with 41 units and neighbourhood space COUNTER, the group’s fifth aparthotel in London.

Edyn opens Le Jardin de Verre by Locke in Paris in February 2025, a flagship aparthotel with 145 studio apartments and vast social spaces including a winter garden, restaurant, bar, co-working areas, coffee shop and a gym. Another Locke is due to open in Copenhagen in early 2026.

Dublin-based Staycity Group is pushing out the European boundaries of Staycity Aparthotels and its lifestyle brand Wilde, including the recent acquisition of a 74.9% stake in the Munich-Based Flexi Group, giving the company a presence in Leipzig and Dresden, with another under construction in Vienna.

Other Staycity properties include the recent addition of 124 apartments in Dalston, East London, and the acquisition

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FRASERS

STAYCITY

In places where the choice of high-quality corporate accommodation is limited, co-living it proving to be a highly-efficient solution” LOCKE PARIS

CANARY WHARF

of a 98-apartment site in central Belfast.

In February 2025 Staycity secured a £77m loan from OakNorth, its partner of five years, to fund further major expansion with plans to triple in size over the next five years.

This year, Staycity's Wilde will open in Lisbon, Amsterdam, Cambridge, Porto and Vienna, with further London locations, a site in Bordeaux, and another in the centre of Oxford under development.

Cheval Collection continues to develop through management contracts, including Cheval Maison Riyadh, which opens in 2027, joining Cheval Maison The Palm Dubai and Expo City Dubai.

Last year Frasers Hospitality opened its third property in Bahrain – Frasers Suites

Al Liwan Bahrain. “This reflects growing interest in the region, fuelled by strategic investments, relaxed travel restrictions and a growing demand for leisure and corporate connectivity, with countries like Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar and Bahrain already seeing unprecedented growth,” said Frasers' Rebecca Hollants Van Loocke.

“Also, across Asia, business travel is booming in emerging markets like Vietnam, Cambodia and China, where demand for modern, well-located accommodation is rising sharply from professionals who seek central, wellequipped work and living spaces."

This is reflected in Frasers’ growth, which this year alone includes Modena by Fraser Shenzhen, China, Modena by Fraser Wujiaochang Shanghai, Fraser Residence Putrajaya, Malaysia and Capri by Fraser, Penang, Malaysia.

Strong brands

Meanwhile, the big hotel brands are continuing to penetrate the serviced accommodation market with their own extended-stay concepts.

“Last year’s launch of ‘Reside, a Wyndham Residence' is a best-in-class example for modern business travellers,” says 3Sixty’s Carrie Hartman.

“By blending upscale, residence-style

accommodation with the reliability of a well-known hotel brand, the new extended-stay offering is responding to growing demand from business travellers and relocating professionals in key urban markets like Seattle, Houston and Washington D.C.,” she says.

Hotel companies bring recognised standards, online booking and loyalty programmes to the mix.

She also notes the popularity of co-living properties in emerging hubs such as India and South Africa, driven by the increasing need for flexible but cost-effective arrangements that fit companies’ cost containment policies “In places where the choice of high-quality corporate accommodation is limited, co-living is proving to be a highly-efficient, innovative solution that can still maintain high duty-of-care standards," she explains.

SilverDoor’s quarterly update states deregulation by the Trump administration could enable the development of new properties, which could lead to more competitive rates.

The SilverDoor report also notes: “India continues to be a key investment market globally with high occupancy and ADR following suit; electronic manufacturing, power and infrastructure sectors are driving much of the growth.”

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Directory

LEADING

THE WAY

We'd like to introduce you to the main players in serviced accommodation...

3SIXTY moveto.stay3sixty.com +1 425 375 2773

ALTOVITA altovita.com +44 (0)20 3318 3489

ARIOSI ariosi.com +44 (0)20 8168 8168

3Sixty is a curated marketplace of 1m globallycompliant accommodations, blending technology and expertise for quality, flexibility, compliance, and a home-like experience for employees.

AltoVita is an award-winning corporate accommodation platform offering seamless, compliant and tailored extended-stay solutions, powered by innovative technology and exceptional service.

Ariosi curates and delivers tailored training and workshops, bespoke consulting and datainformed insights to drive growth and enhance performance in the serviced apartment industry.

CAP WORLDWIDE capww.com +44 (0)20 8323 2888

CHECKIN APARTMENTS checkinapartments.com +44 (0)20 3189 1269

CITY RETREAT – SERVICED APARTMENTS cityretreat.com +31 8 50 02 42 01

CAP is a trusted, professional, global serviced accommodation booking agent, performing in the top 1% for sustainability (Gold EcoVadis medal) and proud to be Women-Owned.

Serviced apartment and corporate housing specialists offering local expertise, unrivalled service and end-to-end support for vetted, cost-effective and sustainable accommodation.

Amsterdam’s pulse beats in our furnished havens where corporate nomads and global souls find temporary nests, turning serviced apartments into sanctuaries for life’s beautiful transitions.

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EDYN findingedyn.com/en +44 (0)330 174 2694

FRASERS HOSPITALITY frasershospitality.com +44 (0)20 7341 5599

HOUSE OF FISHER houseoffisher.com +44 (0)1189 51 41 51

Our unique brands and spaces offer sanctuaries across eight countries, where business travellers can work, live and immerse themselves in the local culture and community.

One of the world's leading investors and operators of serviced apartments and hotel residences, dedicated to providing unparalleled accommodation experiences across the globe.

Owner-operated, fully furnished studio to three-bed serviced apartments in the Thames Valley, England, with 24/7 Guest Services.

Perfectly located for business or leisure stays.

HYBRID RESI info@hybridresi.com +44 (0)20 3488 2904

PREMIER SUITES premiersuiteseurope.com info@premiersuiteseurope.com

SILVERDOOR silverdoor.com +44 (0)20 8090 8090

Hybrid Resi combines hotel services with spacious serviced accommodations in Greater London, prioritising sustainability, guest experience, comfort and modern conveniences.

Spacious serviced apartments in 15 city destinations across Europe, offering a fully-fitted kitchen, living room, bedroom(s) and ensuite bathroom(s). Bringing home a little closer.

SilverDoor's award-winning account management, online booking platform, and Carbon Calculator provide businesses with an unrivalled booking experience and programme insights.

SITU GLOBAL ACCOMMODATION staysitu.com +44 (0)1392 690 079

STAYCITY APARTHOTELS staycity.com +44 (0)20 3744 7525

VERTUS EDIT vertusedit.com +44 (0)20 7418 2811

Trusted extended-stay accommodation experts to organisations worldwide. Our global portfolio spans over 145 countries, offering a single point of contact for safe, compliant, quality hospitality.

Half apartment, half hotel, all across Europe.

Staycity Aparthotels offer an award-winning combination of guest services and amenities.

Smart. Simple. Sleep, eat, work, stay, shower, play.

Introducing Vertus Edit, Canary Wharf's new aparthotel. Choose from 378 studios and enjoy public spaces that meet the needs of business travellers, city explorers and fun-lovers alike.

VIRIDIAN APARTMENTS viridianapartments.com +44 (0)20 3743 0331

WILDE APARTHOTELS wilde.com +44 (0)20 3744 4402

Stylish and spacious serviced apartments, perfectly equipped with the furnishings, features and amenities that matter most. Prime locations and a service that exceeds expectations.

An ideal pairing of apartment freedom and hotel comforts, Wilde offers a curated, sophisticated city apartment experience combined with the very best of hotel standards.

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