Scandic comments on market situation and ongoing rent negotiations

In December, Scandic’s average occupancy rate totaled 15 percent, which means that occupancy for the fourth quarter was approximately 23 percent, in line with the company's forecast from December 8. Demand has continued to be weak in all markets and has been impacted by stricter restrictions from authorities. About half of Scandic's hotels were closed during the Christmas and New Year’s holiday, which had a certain negative effect on occupancy in December and at the beginning of January.

According to Benchmarking Alliance, market RevPAR dropped between 59 and 72 percent during the fourth quarter in the Nordic countries compared with the corresponding period during the previous year.

Scandic’s available liquidity at year-end amounted to approximately 1.9 billion SEK.

Based on current booking trends, average occupancy is expected to be about 15 percent in January. Although Scandic anticipates a gradual increase during the coming months, occupancy is expected to continue to remain at a low level during the first quarter.

For some time, Scandic has been negotiating rents with property owners, which has thus far led to agreements for rent reductions and offers for reduced rents totaling approximately 850 MSEK. The agreed and proposed rent reductions apply mainly for the period 2020-2022, of which more than half apply for 2021.Scandic considers further rent reductions to be necessary to manage the current market situation and negotiations are ongoing with a number of property owners.

After the COVID-19 pandemic began, Scandic was able to quickly reduce its cost base by more than half, excluding rents. With its low costs, market-leading position and efficient operational model, Scandic has what it takes to be the most competitive and attractive partner for hotel property owners in the Nordic region.

Scandic’s Year-end Report for 2020 will be published on February 17 at 7:30 CET.

This information is such that Scandic Hotels Group AB (publ) is obliged to make public pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation. The information was submitted for publication, through the agency of the contact persons set out above, at 08.25 CET on January 15, 2021.
 
For more information, please contact:
 
Jan Johansson, Chief Financial Officer, Scandic Hotels Group
Email: jan.johansson@scandichotels.com
Phone: +46 709 758972
 
Henrik Vikström, Director Investor Relations, Scandic Hotels Group
Email: henrik.vikstrom@scandichotels.com
Phone: +46 709 52 80 06