SACO launches new design-led aparthotel brand called Locke
A new design-led aparthotel brand is to be launched by SACO, the Serviced Apartment Company.
The first Locke property will open with 168 apartments on London's Leman Street in Aldgate in October 2016, with further properties set to be launched across the UK and Europe from 2017.
Leman Locke will offer 105 studios and 63 one-bedroom suites, two meeting rooms, the Locke Gym, two bars, all-day dining and extensive indoor and outdoor lounges. Ultrafast Wi-Fi will be available throughout the property.
Stephen Hanton, chief executive of SACO, said that Locke has been developed "to offer today's travellers the best of a design-led hotel experience with at-home independent living".
"SACO's mission is to reshape hospitality, and we are continuing to develop innovative concepts, using extensive research, and feedback and involvement from thousands of our customers."
Eric Jafari, managing director for SACO Property Group, has led the development of the Locke brand. "John Locke was an enlightened thinker, before his time, who challenged the status quo," he said. "With Locke, we seek to create aparthotel-anchored communities that do the same.
"Locke offers a unique take on aparthotel living. We understand that travellers no longer want just a comfortable night's stay. They want an experience and to feel a part of a community - which is why each of our properties are designed to immerse guests in the local area."
Founded in Bristol in 1997, SACO currently operates and manages a portfolio of over 900 apartments in cities across the UK. In March 2015, it merged with Oaktree Capital Management's serviced apartment platform, CL Serviced Apartments.
The development of new properties is managed by the SACO Property Group, which was formed last year after a four-strong management team joined SACO from Union Hanover, the founders of Urban Villa.
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