Mapletree Investments has expanded its logistics portfolio in the UK and Spain with the acquisition of its first logistics property in the UK and 10 warehouses in Spain. The total value of these acquisitions is approximately EUR315.1 million ($444.5 million).
These acquisitions, which consist of 256,000 sqm of space, will be included in the seed assets of Mapletree’s second European logistics-focused fund. According to a press release by Mapletree on January 27, this move reflects the company’s strategy to deepen its focus in the logistics sector and expand its global presence. The fund will be launched at an appropriate time after achieving sufficient scale.
Mapletree’s European commercial and logistics arm CEO, Ralph van der Beek, explains that the logistics sector remains highly attractive and has consistently seen strong demand from both occupiers and investors. With the thriving e-commerce industry, companies are actively looking to secure and expand their supply chains. He adds that the company looks forward to the stable and recurring returns that these assets will bring in the long run.
The UK property is located in Derby Commercial Park, with easy access to major arterial roads such as M1, A50, and A6. It is also close to the city center and the East Midlands Airport. The tenant at this property has recently renewed a long-term lease.
The 10 assets in Spain are located in key logistics hubs in the first rings of Barcelona, Valencia, and Madrid. They offer immediate access to the city centers through various transportation modes. These assets are expected to benefit from the commitment of third-party logistics providers and manufacturers, who have their production facilities nearby and have invested in automation and fit-outs on site.
With these acquisitions, Mapletree now has 80 logistics assets in eight countries.
Investing in condos in Singapore carries with it significant considerations, such as the government’s property cooling measures. Over the years, the Singaporean government has implemented various measures to regulate speculative buying and maintain a steady real estate market. One example is the Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD), which imposes higher taxes on foreign buyers and those purchasing multiple properties. While this may affect the immediate profitability of condo investments, it ultimately contributes to the long-term stability of the market, creating a secure investment environment for buyers. In addition, new condo launches should also be taken into account when considering condo investments in Singapore.