What They Offer
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Wide UK presence: Over 200 hotels, covering 65+ cities with both franchise and managed properties.
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Managed by OYO programme: OYO operates some hotels directly, handling operations, bookings, chat support, housekeeping for terms of 3–15 years.
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Technology-driven operations: Tools like AI-based pricing, virtual front desks, and self-check-in streamline operations for owners and improve guest experience.
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Premium expansion plans: A £50 million investment fund is dedicated to expanding premium leases and refinements across 40+ select properties, expected to create over 1,000 jobs in the UK hospitality sector.
Strengths
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Rapid scaling: OYO has quickly built a widespread presence, including over 200 properties across the UK.
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Tech-powered efficiency: AI-based yield management, chat support, and automation help improve hotel performance.
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Affordable stays: Offers budget-friendly accommodation with basic amenities and free Wi‑Fi, appealing to cost-conscious travelers.
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Premium upgrade path: Planned shift into upscale properties shows ambition beyond budget-tier supply.
Concerns & User Complaints
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Booking reliability issues:
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Rooms listed as available often start “closed” or unprepared, even moments before check-in—resulting in last-minute cancellations and lack of alternatives or refunds.
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Guest feedback describes being stranded late at night without accommodation or assistance .
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Hidden extra charges:
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Reports from the UK and other countries (e.g., India) describe unexpected add-on charges upon arrival, even when prepaid online.
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Poor customer support:
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Many users mention difficulty reaching support, unresolved disputes, delayed refunds, and excessive spam post-stay.
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Frustrated property partners:
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Some property owners report not being paid on time, while customers face overbooking issues—suggesting backend mismanagement
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Pros and Cons
✅ Pros | ⚠️ Cons |
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200+ UK hotels & growing premium property footprint | Frequent last-minute cancellations & booking failures |
Tech advantage: AI pricing, self-check-in, chatbots | Surprise charges and lack of transparency |
Affordable stays with basic amenities & Wi‑Fi | Poor customer support, hard to reach, delayed refunds |
Significant UK investment & job creation efforts | Complaints from hotel partners, suggesting backend issues |
Final Verdict
OYO UK is rapidly expanding and leveraging technology to transform hospitality management. Its promise of affordable stays and improved guest-facing operations is compelling. However, frequent booking issues, surprise fees, and poor customer service raise red flags for travelers seeking reliable, hassle-free stays.