LyLo international debut taps ‘growth opportunity’: EVT CEO Jane Hastings

by Daisy Melwani

After revealing there was “more to come across Southeast Asia” last month, EVT has announced the launch of its lifestyle-budget brand LyLo in the region, adding to its QT and Rydges portfolio.

Slated to open in 2028, the 387-bed LyLo property will be located in Sukhumvit Soi 15 under a management agreement, marking the brand’s first debut outside of Australia and New Zealand.

The move is in line with EVT Hotels and Resorts’ asset-light hotel growth strategy for the region, and follows the opening of QT Singapore in 2024 and the recent signing of Rydges Bangkok, slated to open in 2028.

“LyLo Bangkok is an important milestone in EVT’s South-East Asia growth strategy. Alongside QT Singapore and the recently announced Rydges Bangkok, it strengthens our brand presence in the region and reflects our confidence in the growth opportunity ahead,” EVT CEO, Jane Hastings said.

“Over the past five years we’ve built the LyLo concept, drawing on expertise from across EVT, and proven it as an award-winning brand. We have a platform to support expansion through asset-light management agreements, with Bangkok marking the first step in that journey.”

The latest LyLo will offer 354 signature pods and 33 private rooms, shared social spaces including a rooftop wellness area, pool and bar. The model is to provide a private, quality stay at an accessible price point, unlocking stronger returns for owners.

The latest deal was signed with Hospitality Capital Advisers (HCA), Capstone Asset and Silver Bullet (SBS), acting as Development Partners on behalf of the Boontanonda Family, Matalay and KS Hotels.

“Bangkok is one of the most visited cities in the world, and it’s exactly the kind of market LyLo was built for with high volumes of budget-conscious, style-driven travellers who want more than a generic budget stay. It’s a strong proof point for how far this concept can travel,” LyLo Managing Director, Tim Alpe said.

LyLo’s current portfolio expands across four properties spanning Auckland, Christchurch, Queenstown and Brisbane, with a flagship Gold Coast property opening in 2028.

EVT is in the midst of establishing a Bangkok office, with Executive Vice President – Asia Harry Thaliwal at the helm, reporting to Australian-based Chief Development Officer Brett Forer.

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