KAMCO Investment Company and Rasmala have acquired Amazon UK Services’ largest distribution warehouse for approximately $76mn.
The acquired property is leased to Amazon UK Services with an unexpired term of 15 years expiring in October 2031. The investment will target an annual cash dividend yield of 6.5% per annum, with an expected internal rate of return of 7% upon exit.
Commenting on the acquisition, Faisal Sarkhou, CEO of KAMCO, said: This achievement marks yet another step towards reaching our strategic objectives and future vision to enhance our operational performance and expand our real estate investments platform on a regional and international scale, in a way that is beneficial to our shareholders.
KAMCOs chief investment officer, Khaled Fouad, said: This transaction highlights the acquisition of a new category of income-generating assets that are leased to quality covenants such as Amazon, with the aim of diversifying sources of income. Reaching a target of half a billion dollars is not far off given that KAMCOs alternative investment team currently manages more than $250mn in real estate across 11 regional and international properties.
Zak Hydari, group chief executive of Rasmala, said: We are delighted to partner with KAMCO on this landmark transaction. Rasmala has extensive experience in acquiring and managing UK real estate in partnership with Gulf based investors. We look forward to working with KAMCO to support their expansion plans.
The property was purpose-built for Amazons services due to its strategic location and proximity to the main transport networks, Edinburgh and Edinburgh Airport, which offers easy access to neighbouring Scottish cities.
The property, which extends over an area of more than 9.2ha, is fully automated with conveyor belts moving packages from order receipt to fulfilment to packaging and finally the loading bays. The warehouse also features a 24-hour security system.