LyLo, part of the Australian hospitality group EVT, has announced plans to expand its pod hotel concept globally, with London identified as the potential location for its first European property.
London-based retail, leisure and placemaking agency P-Three has been appointed as the sole agent to identify suitable locations, with a focus on Southwark but open to other central areas. LyLo is seeking buildings between 15,000 and 50,000 square feet, including office or retail conversions or basement spaces, to transform into pod hotels.
Launched in 2022, LyLo operates under EVT, which also manages more than 80 hotels in Australia, New Zealand and Singapore. LyLo currently has pod hotels in Auckland, Queenstown and Christchurch in New Zealand; as well as Brisbane, Australia, featuring a total of 608 pods, 40 private rooms, 170 ensuite rooms, and four F&B venues. Two additional locations in Gold Coast and Fremantle in Australia are in the pipeline.
“Our concept has already proven successful in New Zealand and Australia and we are confident the European market will embrace our blend of affordability and community-focused design. London’s dynamic traveller base makes it an ideal location to begin this new chapter,” said LyLo’s Managing Director Tim Alpe.
Targeting solo travellers, groups aged 18-35, digital nomads and sports groups, LyLo offers affordable, hostel-style accommodations in a design-focused and communal atmosphere. The brand’s properties include co-working, social and wellness spaces. According to the company, its Auckland property regularly ranks as the most-booked hotel in the city on Booking.com by room nights (monthly).
Pod hotels typically offer compact sleeping spaces with shared amenities, such as bathrooms and dining areas. LyLo enhances the concept by prioritizing security, privacy and modern amenities such as lights, fans and charging stations within each pod.
LyLo’s move into Europe reflects the growing global popularity of pod hotels, a concept that began in Japan as an affordable option for business professionals and has since expanded to cater to modern travellers prioritizing affordability, social experiences and unique accommodations.
“The pod hotel model has proven to be a game-changer in the hospitality space, especially for younger, budget-conscious travellers who often prioritise unique experiences and dynamic, social environments over traditional hotel offerings,” said Thomas Rose, co-founder at P-Three. “With its large and vibrant visitor base, London is the perfect starting point for LyLo’s European expansion and we’re confident that their innovative approach and design-led concept will resonate well in this market. We look forward to working with them to bring it to life.”
