AEW UK REIT Acquires High-Yielding Retail Asset in Hitchin
Why we think this is good
The acquisition of a high-yielding retail asset in an affluent commuter town represents a positive strategic move for AEW UK REIT. The asset is expected to enhance the company's earnings immediately, with an attractive net initial yield of 8.31%. The company has demonstrated its ability to swiftly redeploy capital from a previous disposal, indicating strong execution capabilities. Overall, the transaction appears to be a well-considered and value-accretive investment for the company.
Key Points
- AEW UK REIT has acquired a freehold, high-street retail asset in Hitchin for £10 million
- The acquisition reflects an attractive net initial yield of 8.31% and a capital value of £213 per sq. ft.
- The property provides 46,905 sq. ft. of space across 12 retail units and a standalone office building
- The retail elements are fully let to a strong lineup of 12 tenants, including Marks & Spencer, Next, and Vodafone
- The acquisition demonstrates the company's swift redeployment of sale proceeds from a recent disposal
Summary
AEW UK REIT has completed the purchase of a freehold, high-street retail asset in Hitchin for £10 million. The acquisition reflects an attractive net initial yield of 8.31% and a capital value of £213 per sq. ft. The property provides 46,905 sq. ft. of space across 12 retail units and a standalone office building, with a strong tenant lineup including Marks & Spencer, Next, and Vodafone. The acquisition demonstrates the company's swift redeployment of sale proceeds from a recent disposal, with a significant amount of remaining proceeds also under exclusive negotiation. The company believes it is well-positioned to focus on the growth of the portfolio should the right earnings-accretive opportunities arise.