The Ruby Group Expands in Germany with Landmark Project in Berlin

The Ruby Hotels brand, founded by CEO Michael Struck, continues its European expansion with a major new project in Berlin, seamlessly combining Lean Luxury design with a carefully restored landmark building. The conversion of the former hotel property at Kurfürstendamm 227 will introduce a 375-room Ruby Hotel spanning floors 5 to 11, with vibrant public areas on the 3rd floor and a rooftop terrace on the 12th floor, offering panoramic views over Berlin’s famous shopping and cultural boulevard.

Kurfürstendamm, often referred to as Berlin’s "Champs-Élysées" is not only a renowned shopping destination but also a hub for history, culture, and entertainment. Just steps away from the hotel, guests can explore some of Berlin’s most famous attractions, including the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church, Berlin Zoo, and the bustling Bikini Berlin concept mall. With excellent transport connections, Ruby’s newest location also offers easy access to the Brandenburg Gate, Potsdamer Platz, and Museum Island. Additionally, Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) is just 35 minutes away by car or public transport, making it a convenient choice for both business and leisure travellers.

This Berlin signing also marks the first Ruby hotel project since the acquisition of the Ruby brand by global hospitality leader IHG Hotels & Resorts. With the Ruby brand now part of the IHG brand family, the Ruby Group gains access to IHG’s global distribution platforms, advanced technology, and a customer base of over 100 million IHG One Rewards members. This strategic partnership supports Ruby’s international growth – particularly in markets such as the U.S. and Asia – positioning the group as IHG’s preferred partner for lease projects under the Ruby brand. At the same time, it enables Ruby to further strengthen its Lean Luxury positioning and operational efficiency, while maintaining its distinct brand identity.

Julian Mörs, Senior Director Development at the Ruby Group, comments: "Berlin has been a key destination on our expansion roadmap, and we are thrilled to finally bring Ruby to the heart of the city. Kurfürstendamm is the perfect location for our Lean Luxury approach - rich in history, culture, and vibrant city life. With this project, we’re not only adding another exciting destination to our portfolio, but we’re also breathing new life into an iconic space that has been vacant for too long"

Marcus Bartenstein, CEO Empira Group, adds: "With this project, we are unlocking the true potential of an exceptional location at the heart of Berlin. Together with The Ruby Group, we are creating a destination that will combine architectural heritage with contemporary hospitality – and contribute to the continued revitalization of Kurfürstendamm as one of Europe’s most vibrant boulevards"

Karin Sheppard, Senior Vice President and Managing Director, Europe, IHG Hotels & Resorts, said “We are delighted to announce this Ruby hotel signing in Berlin together with The Ruby Group – little more than a month since IHG’s acquisition of the Ruby hotel brand. We have seen widespread positivity and enthusiasm from our owners and investors for what is now the 20th brand in our portfolio, as they look to develop in the growing urban micro subsegment – both in Europe and beyond. This latest signing is strong reinforcement of the brand’s success in strategic city centre locations, and we can’t wait to see the hotel bring its style and relaxed charm to travellers in the energetic German capital.”

Developed in close collaboration with Empira Group, a renowned international real estate investment manager active across Europe and the US, this project presents a rare opportunity to bring new life to a long-vacant property. One year ago, Empira Group took over the building, which had previously operated as a hotel. Following an abandoned attempt to convert it into offices, it will now return to its original purpose as a hospitality space. With its prime location and strong potential, the hotel aligns perfectly with the Ruby brand vision of transforming underutilized buildings into thriving destinations. The Ruby Group’s in-house design team, led by Matthew Balon, will ensure that the interiors reflect the brand’s signature blend of style, individuality, and comfort.

The Ruby Hotel in Berlin is expected to be handed over and open its doors in Q1 2028.

The Munich-based Ruby Group under the leadership of founder and CEO Michael Struck is breaking new ground with its Lean Luxury philosophy. With a lean organisational structure and concentration on the essentials, Ruby succeeds in creating a contemporary, affordable form of luxury for modern, cost and style-conscious customers.

Founded in 2013, the Group already operates 20 Ruby hotels across Europe, with a further six hotels under construction or in the planning phase. In addition, Ruby is expanding into China via a joint venture with Delonix, headed by Alex Zheng, one of China’s most accomplished hotel entrepreneurs. Ruby also offers Ruby Workspaces in Munich, Hamburg, Dusseldorf, Amsterdam, Vienna, Stuttgart, Florence, and Malta – perfectly equipped workplaces and a creative atmosphere with access to an inspiring office community.

Financially strong partners support Ruby’s expansion. ECE Group; the Austrian Soravia Group; Franger Investment, a German family office; Ocean Link, a private equity fund; the entrepreneur Michael Hehn; and Michael Struck jointly hold the company shares.