Cohort Capital, the London-based real estate lender, has completed a £18.4m mezzanine facility secured against The Stafford London, the award-winning 106-key luxury hotel in St James’s, ten days after first being approached.

The refinancing supports The Stafford’s long-term plans, backing continued investment in its property, people and guest experience, while existing senior lenders remain in place. The transaction also enabled an outstanding liability to HMRC, previously reported in the trade press, to be settled in full.

Operating from St James’s Place since 1912, The Stafford London is one of the capital’s most distinguished luxury hotels. The property comprises a collection of historic freehold buildings and is home to The American Bar and Michael Caines at The Stafford.

The Stafford remains backed by long-term, well-capitalised ownership. Throughout the refinancing process, hotel operations, trading performance and guest experience continued uninterrupted.

The refinancing was completed within ten days of Cohort Capital‘s initial involvement, reflecting a collaborative approach between all parties and a shared commitment to securing a positive outcome for the business.

“This refinancing represents an important milestone for The Stafford and provides a strong platform for the future. We are pleased to have partnered with Cohort Capital, whose pragmatic approach, responsiveness and commitment to execution enabled a successful outcome within a demanding timeframe.

With this refinancing successfully completed and with Kremi McCabe recently joining as General Manager, we look forward with confidence to the next chapter for The Stafford, continuing to invest in the hotel while delivering the exceptional service and experiences for which we are known.“

Mahmoud Bakr – Director, The Stafford London

“The Stafford is an exceptional asset with a strong heritage, loyal customer base and experienced ownership team. We understood the opportunity quickly, worked constructively alongside the existing lenders and delivered a financing solution tailored to the requirements of the business.

We are pleased to support The Stafford as it continues to build on its reputation as one of London’s leading luxury hotels.“

Robert Pritchard – Chief Investment Officer, Cohort Capital