Zip by Premier Inn CARDIFF
Whitbread has unveiled Zip by Premier Inn, a new hotel concept that subverts traditional expectations in favour of lower prices.
“In developing the concept, we have undertaken considerable research, including having had six Zip rooms on sale to customers for many months,” comments Simon Jones, Managing Director, Premier Inn. “It’s clear through the research that people want the basics done brilliantly, such as a comfy bed and a power shower, but they are happy to compromise on location or some extras if they are paying a fantastic price for their room. We will continue to learn from our customers as they experience the product and will evolve and innovate the concept as we open more Zip hotels.” Featuring lightboxes, flexible bed formats and en-suite shower cubicles inspired by the first-class cabin experience, Zip’s smaller rooms will give Whitbread access to a wider range of buildings in towns and cities across the UK, with a second site set to open in Southampton with 140 keys.
Billed as ‘basics done brilliantly’ the format has been designed by British studio PriestmanGoode, whose work in the aviation sector – for airlines including Air France, Lufthansa and Swiss – has informed the layout, contents and use of space. The result of extensive research that revealed guests are willing to forego central locations and large rooms if the price is right, the first Zip by Premier Inn Hotel will open with a 138-key property in the Roath district of Cardiff in early 2019, with each 8.5m2 room starting at just £19. Whilst guestrooms may be on the compact side, large communal and public areas anchoring each property – doubling as bars at night – will offer space to socialise and stretch out.
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