One of the largest logistics developments in the north of England
Europa Capital, the pan-European real estate investment manager announces that it has signed a c. 630,000 sq ft, 25-year pre-lease with Alliance Automotive Group (“AAG”), a leading distributor of passenger and commercial vehicle parts, at Rotherham logistics park, on behalf of its value-add fund, Europa Fund VI.
AAG subsidiary Ferrari Piston Services (“FPS”), a distribution partner for a number of leading automotive brands, will occupy the space and is expected to commence its move into the property next summer with operations commencing in 2025.
89% of the site is now pre-let with construction of the facility, along with a smaller 80,000 sq ft unit, expected to complete in July 2023. The development is targeting a minimum BREEAM sustainability rating of ‘Very Good’ and an EPC rating of ‘A’.
The property benefits from excellent arterial connectivity, with direct links to junction 1 of the M18 at Rotherham, providing access to the UK’s wider motorway network. It occupies a prime distribution location within the M1-M18 triangle, close to the large markets of Leeds and Manchester, as well as bridging the last mile to 1.4 million consumers in the Sheffield city region.
Rachel Hanke, Managing Director and Value-Add Fund Manager at Europa Capital, commented: “Despite current headwinds, securing a pre-let with a tenant such as AAG at an early stage of construction is a testament to the resolve of the asset management team and strength of the fundamentals in the sector, especially for high-quality assets such as the Rotherham logistics park. We continue to experience a good level of occupier interest in the remaining unit and are focused on letting up this space.”
James Keast, Asset Manager at Europa Capital, adds: “The signing of this lease is a huge milestone for our development in Rotherham. Our park offers a unique opportunity to lease a large site in a prime logistics location which has a fundamental lack of supply. We look forward to welcoming AAG as a new occupier and working with them to deliver the modern and high specification building which they require for their operations.”
Steve Richardson, AAG’s Managing Director, said: “We’re delighted to partner with Europa Capital to secure this new facility for our FPS business. We’ve experienced significant growth since acquiring FPS in 2016 and this investment not only allows us to consolidate our three existing facilities in Sheffield, but also forms part of our wider programme to strengthen our distribution infrastructure to ensure we are prepared for future growth.
“This will be a purpose-built, state-of-the-art facility, integrating best-in-class logistics operations with advanced technologies to put us at the forefront of aftermarket distribution. As we move forward customers can expect an even wider product offering alongside market leading service and support. It’s an exciting next step in our journey and we expect the new facility to be operational in 2025”.
