Press Release
London and Dubai, April 3 2017: KAMCO Investment Company and Rasmala have acquired Amazon UK Services Ltd.’s largest distribution warehouse for approximately GBP61 million, inclusive of fees.
The acquired property is leased to Amazon UK Services Ltd. 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, Mr. Faisal Sarkhou, Chief Executive Officer 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.”
KAMCO’s Chief Investment Officer, Mr. 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.” He added that, “Reaching a target of half a billion dollars is not far off given that KAMCO’s alternative investment team currently manages more than USD250 million in real estate across 11 regional and international properties.”
Mr. 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 Amazon’s 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 one million square feet, 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.
ENDS
For more information, please contact:
Mouna Sounni
Associate
Rasmala
T: +971 4 424 2757
About Rasmala www.rasmala.com
Rasmala is an independent investment management group. Rasmala provides investment management solutions to pension funds, family groups, corporations and government institutions. Rasmala PLC is listed on the AIM market of the London Stock Exchange and is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”). Rasmala operates regulated entities in the UK, UAE and Egypt.