Bridges sells Qbic London City hotel in Whitechapel to Cerberus

London-based Bridges Fund Management has sold the Qbic London City hotel in Whitechapel to an affiliate of New York-based Cerberus Capital Management for an undisclosed sum.

The modular 171-bedroom budget hotel opened in 2013 following the transformation of a disused 56,000 sq ft office building. The brand has one other property, the Qbic Amsterdam WTC (World Trade Center), which launched in 2007.

The Qbic concept is based around reducing the time required and the environmental impact of the hotel build process. Developed in Amsterdam, ‘Qbi' is a pre-fabricated bedroom made primarily from recycled materials that can be installed within an existing structure. Qbic has subsequently introduced sustainability features including solar panels, LED and energy-efficient lighting, and water-saving measures.

Julie Fawcett, managing director of Qbic, said: "Qbic has thrived under Bridges Fund Management progressing from a start-up with potential to a tested, fully fledged hotel concept with the team to make it fly."

Lee Millstein, global head of real estate at Cerberus Capital Management, added: “This transaction represents an opportunity for us to work closely with Qbic Management while also applying our substantial experience in the global hospitality sector to a new growth platform. Together, we plan to create long-term value in the business through creative real estate solutions and by organically scaling the platform and portfolio across multiple cities.”

KPMG advised Bridges on the sale, while Addleshaw Goddard provided legal counsel.

Qbic plans four new London hotels >>

Boutique, budget hotel concept from Holland to launch in London >>

Amsterdam-based Qbic Hotels targets four UK cities for expansion >>

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