International Investment Group Triple B announced a £5 million investment for Edinburgh’s OMNi Centre last month, following the acquisition in April 2024. We sat down with Scott Dwyer, Real Estate Senior Advisor, to explore the motivations behind the acquisition, the group’s investment philosophy, and what’s next for this dynamic city-centre destination.
Q. In a nutshell, who is Triple B?
A. Founded in 2020 by the family owners of the Bata shoe business, Triple B is an International Investment Group built on a family-led ethos of long-term partnership and positive impact.
We deliver capital, operational expertise and strategic support across commercial real estate, growth capital, and venture capital, and target scalable opportunities to add real value. We prioritise projects that deliver strong financial returns, while strengthening communities and driving sustainable growth.
Q. Why did you choose to invest in Edinburgh real estate?
A. Western European regions with robust economies, strong growth potential and favourable demographics are a key focus area for us. The city of Edinburgh stood out due to its world-renowned university and thriving tourism, as well as the city holding personal significance to our CEO, Thomas Archer Bata, as a former Edinburgh University student.
Q. WHAT WERE THE MAIN DRIVERS OF INVESTING IN THE OMNI CENTRE?
A. OMNi represents the type of asset Triple B favours – one that defies fitting neatly into a traditional investment box in terms of both sector and size. While often seen as a leisure destination, around half of OMNi’s income is driven by non-leisure uses, such as parking and hotel, highlighting its diverse revenue profile. With long-term, stable income and a tenant mix of accessible leisure and entertainment offerings, OMNi has proven resilient, especially as value-conscious consumers seek affordable experiences in the current economic climate.
Q. What are the differences between the UK and European leisure market?
A. The UK real estate market has adjusted its pricing in the leisure sector quicker than in Europe, where a cautious investment stance has pushed yields higher. While retail continues to face challenges, demand for accessible, local leisure experiences is growing. Future competition is limited in both retail and leisure due to high investments requirements, therefore well-performing schemes with strong tenants and long leases present appealing opportunities. The UK is an attractive place to invest with lots of opportunities. The market still has some mispricing and arbitrage opportunities which could be of interest to us going forward.
Q. Are there any significant plans for OMNi on the horizon?
A. OMNi is currently undergoing a £5 million pound refurbishment to revitalise its tired common areas, with completion expected by year-end. The investment decision was driven by strong footfall, positive tenant performance, and the success of Edinburgh Street Food, who transformed a long-term vacant space into a dining hotspot.
Triple B’s strategic investment in Edinburgh’s OMNi Centre reflects a broader confidence in the UK’s evolving leisure real estate market. With a focus on long-term value, community impact, and diversified income streams, the group’s approach signals a shift toward more resilient, experience-driven assets. As OMNi undergoes its £5 million refurbishment, it stands as a promising example of how thoughtful investment can breathe new life into urban destinations.
For more information and to discuss opportunities with OMNi and Triple B visit triple-b.co
