New Ownership for Aberdeen’s Iconic Marcliffe Hotel
Image source, Balmoral GroupImage caption, Balmoral Group’s Sir Jim Milne, left, and the Marcliffe’s Ross Spence are pictured at the hotel
Aberdeen’s beloved five-star Marcliffe Hotel is set to have a new owner, marking a significant change for the popular venue known for hosting wedding receptions and events since 1993. Balmoral Group has officially declared their intention to acquire the business, with the transaction anticipated to be finalized by the end of this month.
The Marcliffe, currently owned and managed by the Spence family, will soon see Ross Spence taking over the reins as the managing director following his father Stewart Spence’s retirement in 2021. Expressing mixed emotions about the transition, Mr. Spence expressed confidence in Balmoral Group as the ideal successor to carry on the hotel’s legacy.
Founded in 1980 by chairman Sir Jim Milne, Balmoral Group assured that there are no plans to make alterations to the existing workforce, emphasizing their commitment to upholding the esteemed reputation and service standards that The Marcliffe is renowned for. The company aims to continue the ongoing refurbishment initiatives to enhance the guest experience.
The Marcliffe, which was inaugurated in 1993 by Soviet Premier Mikhail Gorbachev during his visit to Aberdeen to receive the Freedom of the city, has been a favored destination for notable figures like former first minister Alex Salmond. Over the years, the hotel has hosted various high-profile events, including Mr. Salmond’s announcement of stepping down as SNP leader in 2000 and his return for a surprise comeback four years later.
Despite previous speculations about closure and potential redevelopment plans, The Marcliffe has remained a steadfast landmark, with the latest change in ownership signaling a new chapter for this cherished Aberdeen institution.