In a significant move within the UK logistics and industrial property sector, Newlands Property Group Limited (NPGL) has successfully acquired a substantial portion of Equites Property Fund’s interests, reinforcing its strategic position in the market. The deal marks a critical step in the expansion and development of NPGL’s platform, particularly across the Midlands and South East of England.
The phased acquisition, which highlights NPGL’s growing influence, involves the takeover of several Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) that hold key interests in various logistics development projects. Among these are high-profile locations including Cambridge, Rushden, Junction 16 near Northampton, and Junction 24 in Nottingham. Each of these sites represents prime logistics real estate, crucial for meeting the increasing demands of the sector.
One of the notable elements of the agreement is the granting of an option for NPGL to acquire all shares in the SPV that holds an interest in a development project located near Thrapston, Northamptonshire. This option underscores NPGL’s strategic foresight in securing assets that are likely to grow in value and importance as logistics and industrial needs continue to escalate in the UK.
Furthermore, NPGL is set to expand its portfolio with the acquisition of additional SPVs that hold interests in projects near Egham, Peterborough, and Goldthorpe. However, these acquisitions are subject to specific conditions being met, reflecting the careful, phased approach that NPGL is taking in consolidating its assets and ensuring long-term growth.
Despite these significant gains, certain projects near Newport Pagnell, Basingstoke, and Coton Park will remain under joint control between NPGL and Equites Property Fund. This joint oversight highlights the ongoing relationship between the two entities, even as NPGL moves forward with its own independent ventures.
NPGL, a joint venture formed in March 2024 by the management team of Newlands Developments and global real estate investment firm Forum Partners, represents a fully integrated platform aimed at driving the acquisition, development, and management of logistics and industrial projects across the UK. The partnership builds on Forum Partners’ previous investment success with Roxhill Developments, the precursor to Newlands, and signals a continued commitment to strengthening the UK’s logistics infrastructure.
Russell Platt, CEO of Forum Partners, expressed his enthusiasm for the acquisition, stating: “We are thrilled to complete this phase of our investment in Newlands Property Group. This acquisition not only solidifies our relationship with the Newlands team but also secures strategic assets that were previously under the control of Equites. The agreement also allows us to maintain co-investment terms for three critical projects, ensuring continued collaboration where it matters most. With one of the largest land banks of strategic logistics sites in the UK, Newlands is exceptionally well-positioned to capitalise on current market dynamics and future growth opportunities.”
Graham Pardoe, CEO of Newlands Developments, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the strategic importance of the acquisition. He said: “Partnering with Forum once again to acquire these strategic land options and development sites is a major milestone for Newlands. Our team’s extensive experience and expertise put us on the brink of bringing some of the UK’s key logistics sites to market. With our expansive land bank, we are ideally placed to meet the growing demands in the logistics sector and to drive further significant investment in these critical areas.”
This acquisition marks a crucial development in NPGL’s expansion strategy, positioning the group as a leading force in the UK logistics and industrial property market. As the demand for strategically located logistics sites continues to rise, NPGL’s latest moves suggest it is well-equipped to meet the challenges and opportunities of this dynamic sector. The collaboration between Newlands and Forum Partners is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future landscape of UK logistics infrastructure, ensuring that both partners remain at the forefront of the industry’s evolution.
