UAE's Select buys Radisson hotel in UK second city

Royal Gulf Ltd, part of Select Group, announced on Sunday that it has acquired the Radisson Blu Hotel in Birmingham, England's second largest city.

Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group has been managing the hotel under the Radisson Blu brand and will continue to do so under the new ownership, a statement said.

Select Group said it will begin to invest and improve the hotel rooms, meeting areas and other features over the next 24 months.

Radisson Blu Hotel Birmingham opened in 2006 and is the tallest building in Birmingham with 211 rooms across 39 floors including the residential component. 

"This acquisition is part of Select Group's continuing growth plans. Birmingham is an important market for us. With our resources and expertise, we are confident of being able to improve the hotel's growth while working closely alongside Radisson management." said Colin Wright, chief investment officer for the Group.

He added: "The decision to acquire Radisson Blu Hotel Birmingham was based on compelling financial rationale, an early mover advantage into a major city and its ability to cater for a broad range of guest needs including leisure and business travellers."

Hina Simpson, general manager, Rezidor Hotel Group, said: "While we are delighted for Select Group on their purchase, the sale has absolutely no impact on the operations of the Radisson Blu Hotel, Birmingham. We are confident that with the implementation, of improvement plans and the exceptional care provided by our staff, Radisson Blu will continue to be one of Birmingham's leading hotels."?

Select Group has also delivered eight projects with an additional four underway in the Dubai Marina.