Dutco Group from Dubai Acquires Mar Hall Hotel for £15 Million Renovation

19 Dec, 2023

Dutco Group from Dubai Acquires Mar Hall Hotel for £15 Million Renovation

Scotland's prominent Mar Hall Hotel, Golf and Spa Resort, has been acquired by Dubai's Dutco Group in collaboration with Align Partners, marking a £15 million investment for a comprehensive upgrade.

The historic property, dating back to 1826 and nestled in Bishopton near Glasgow, will undergo a thoughtful restoration that merges its Scottish heritage with modern luxury. Dutco Group and Align Partners plan to expand the resort with luxurious woodland lodges, enhance leisure and spa facilities, and refurbish guestrooms and public spaces.

This acquisition represents Dutco Group's debut in Scotland's hospitality market, showcasing confidence in Mar Hall's potential through strategic and substantial investment.

Sitting on the 240-acre Earl of Mar Estate, the resort boasts an 18-hole championship golf course and a spa, making it a favored choice for weddings. Notably, the hotel has remained under the same ownership for nearly two decades and has hosted various high-profile figures like Beyonce, Harry Styles, Brad Pitt, Liam Gallagher, and Ed Sheeran.

Dutco Group and Align Partners are in discussions with architects and interior designers, with refurbishment set to begin in early 2024. The vision includes luxury lodge expansions, rejuvenated leisure and spa amenities, and an extensive refurbishment of guestrooms and public spaces. Despite the change in ownership, existing bookings for weddings, leisure, and business events will be honored.

Nelson Gibb, Group CEO at Dutco Group, expressed confidence in Mar Hall's potential, outlining a vision for creative investment. Chris King, MD at Align Partners, emphasized restoring the hotel's luxury country club reputation, ensuring its competitiveness among Scotland's premier 5-star hotels.

Kris Aspin, Head of EY Scotland’s Turnaround and Restructuring team, celebrated securing Mar Hall’s future, noting global interest in premium Scottish hospitality assets. EY acted as Joint Administrators, with Savills and Addleshaw Goddard LLP advising, while Pinsent Masons advised Mar Hall Hospitality Ltd (a Dutco Group company). The hotel remains operational during renovations, honoring its wedding calendar as scheduled.