The acquisition of The Marcliffe will not result in staffing changes. Credit: Pressmaster / Shutterstock.

Balmoral Group, an independent manufacturing and property company, has announced plans to acquire The Marcliffe Hotel and Spa (The Marcliffe) in Aberdeen, Scotland, with the sale expected to finalise by late June.

The property is currently managed by Ross Spence after his father, Stewart Spence, retired in 2021.

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The Spence family and Balmoral Group are collaborating on a transition plan to maintain the stability and continuity of the hotel.

The acquisition will not result in staffing changes, preserving the hotel’s renowned service quality. Existing bookings for events, weddings, and hotel stays will be honoured.

Led by chairman Sir Jim Milne since 1980, Balmoral Group has appointed Effective Hospitality Management to operate The Marcliffe in partnership with the existing team.

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Sir Jim Milne expressed his enthusiasm for the acquisition, stating: “The Marcliffe is an Aberdeen institution, and is an establishment very close to my heart. I’ve known the Spence family for a long time and it feels like a natural progression for Balmoral Group. Stewart is recognised as one of the best hoteliers in Scotland, and it’s through his work that we have strong foundations to continue his legacy.”

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Plans are in place to continue refurbishing the hotel, with significant investment aimed at modernising its systems, processes, and suites to enhance customer experience.

“Maintaining the quality and standards that the Marcliffe is known for, while also retaining jobs, is of the utmost importance to us,” added Sir Jim, emphasising Balmoral’s commitment to the Aberdeen community and charitable initiatives.

Commenting on the potential transition, Ross Spence said: “While it’s bittersweet to think we may soon be handing over the keys to The Marcliffe, we know that Balmoral is the perfect fit to continue its legacy. As long-time custodians of The Marcliffe brand, our family has cherished and nurtured it with love and dedication.”

“We are confident that Balmoral will honour The Marcliffe’s heritage and care for it with the same passion and commitment that has been at the heart of our family so that the hotel will thrive for decades more.”