Blackstone Inc. is on track to acquire Warehouse REIT Plc in a deal valued at approximately £470 million. The acquisition is a significant move in the UK logistics sector, with Blackstone offering a 34.2% premium over Warehouse REIT’s stock price from February 28, the day before the bid was publicly disclosed.
Warehouse REIT, facing challenges in growing its business amidst economic uncertainty and high interest rates, is set to benefit from Blackstone’s offer. Neil Kirton, Chairman of Warehouse REIT, noted that the company’s growth had been hindered by the tough macroeconomic climate, making Blackstone’s offer an attractive solution.
This acquisition solidifies Blackstone’s position in the UK logistics market, a sector that has seen increasing demand for warehouse spaces, driven by the growth of e-commerce and supply chain requirements. The deal follows Blackstone’s previous acquisitions, including the purchase of St Modwen’s logistics business and Industrials REIT, which were merged to create Indurent.
For Blackstone, this acquisition represents a continued strategic focus on expanding its logistics portfolio in the UK. Analysts suggest that the deal reflects confidence in the long-term growth of the industrial real estate market, particularly as demand for logistics infrastructure continues to rise.
As the deal progresses, it highlights Blackstone’s commitment to capitalising on the UK’s logistics sector, positioning the firm for future growth as the landscape evolves.