Singapore-based Royal Group, controlled by billionaire Asok Kumar Hiranandani, has selected Minor Hotels, part of Thailand’s Minor International led by William Heinecke, to operate its first hotel project in London.
The move follows Royal Group’s acquisition last year of a historic former NatWest (Westminster Bank) building on Piccadilly in Mayfair for approximately £65 million. The company has committed an additional £45 million to redevelop the century-old property into a high-end boutique hotel featuring about 50 suites across six floors.
The project is positioned as part of broader efforts to revitalize one of London’s most prestigious districts. Bobby Hiranandani, co-chairman of Royal Group, said the development aims to preserve the building’s heritage while introducing a modern hospitality concept that complements the character and global appeal of Mayfair and the West End.
Minor Hotels will manage the property under its Colbert Collection brand, marking its continued expansion into prime European markets. Dillip Rajakarier, CEO of Minor Hotels and group CEO of Minor International, said the company sees the London project as a strong addition to its portfolio and expects it to attract both international visitors and high-end clientele.
The investment highlights a growing trend of Singapore-based real estate groups targeting London assets. In recent years, City Developments, backed by billionaire Kwek Leng Beng, acquired St. Katharine Docks, while Ho Bee Land, led by Chua Thian Poh, purchased the Scalpel office tower—underscoring continued interest in London’s commercial and hospitality sectors.
Minor International, founded in 1970 by Heinecke, has evolved into one of Asia’s largest hospitality operators, managing more than 600 hotels and over 90,000 rooms globally. The company continues to expand its international footprint while exploring capital market strategies, including plans to raise approximately $1.5 billion through a real estate investment trust (REIT) listing in Singapore tied to a portfolio of its hotel assets.
The London project represents a convergence of Asian capital and global hospitality expertise, as investors seek to reposition landmark properties in key gateway cities.
JBizNews Desk
