New owner to reposition Scottish city landmark as ‘leading luxury hotel’

The sale follows an earlier purchase in Scotland by a United Arab Emirates-based company that is “expanding further into Scotland’s vibrant hospitality market”.

The Bruntsfield Hotel, described as a “distinguished property”, has been acquired by Dubai-based Dutco Group from previous owners, Castleforge, who bought the company three years ago.

It marks the second acquisition in Scotland by Dutco in a year, following the earlier purchase of Mar Hall Golf & Spa Resort near Glasgow.

Align Partners provided strategic investment advisory and will manage The Bruntsfield along with Mar Hall. “Further significant investment is planned to transform and reposition The Bruntsfield Hotel, as a leading luxury hotel, aligning it with the highest standards of the hospitality industry.”

Nelson Gibb, group chief executive officer at Dutco Group, said: “Expanding further into Scotland’s vibrant hospitality market so soon after acquiring Mar Hall reflects our strong belief in Scotland as a world-class destination. We look forward to bringing our vast hospitality expertise to reposition The Bruntsfield and contributing to its continued success as a cherished part of the Edinburgh hospitality landscape.”

Chris King, managing director at Align Partners, said: “We look forward to building on The Bruntsfield’s strong foundation of heritage and excellence. Our aim is to enhance its offerings and ensure it remains a top choice for travellers seeking both leisure and business stays in Edinburgh. We will work closely with The Bruntsfield team and our partners to enhance the hotel while continuing to offer exceptional service.”

Matt Lederer, Hotel Acquisitions Director for Castleforge said: “We are pleased to have completed a successful bedrooms and restaurant refurbishment programme and brand repositioning of the Bruntsfield Hotel, following our acquisition in mid-2021.

“The Bruntsfield has become a well-regarded boutique offering in Edinburgh. This sale marks the next stage in our business plan, and we can’t wait to see the hotel go from strength-to-strength under new ownership.”

JLL advised Castleforge on the sale. Under the new ownership, business will continue as normal, with all existing leisure, and business bookings retained. Upgrade work will start in 2025.

Construction firm buys fellow Scottish business

A Scottish contractor which has enjoyed rapid growth has unveiled a six-figure acquisition as it aims for further expansion.

Principal contractor Procast Group has bought Glasgow-based building surveying and cost consultancy business JC+P Property.

Hamilton-based Procast, which employs more than 130 staff, specialises in retrofitting work and “innovative”, multi-trade contracting projects across Scotland and the north of England. Derek Innes has built Procast into a major retrofit contractor, with a turnover of £50 million in its last financial year, having started the business with just three employees after leaving North Lanarkshire Council to set up on his own around 12 years ago.

Pub giant to sell hotel, restaurant and bar with ‘stellar reputation’

A hotel, restaurant and bar in the Scottish capital with a “stellar reputation” has been brought to the market.

The six-room hotel which also has a beer garden and a car park is being offered for sale by a major pub company.

Christie & Co, which is handling the sale, said The Hampton, Murrayfield, Edinburgh, has a “prominent roadside location”.