BAM Properties sells prime retail development in Buchanan Street, Glasgow

BAM acquired the property which it extensively refurbished in 2008. The 27,437 sq ft (2,548.89 sq m) retail unit over basement, ground and two upper floors was let to Nike in 2010 for a term of 15 years at £1.3 million p.a.

The sale to LIM will be completed by the end of November 2011.

John Burke, managing director BAM Properties, said: ‘BAM received a number of offers for the property but they did not meet our price expectations and so we chose not to sell. However, shortly after we withdrew from the open market, we were approached with an offer at the required price. Sellers in the current market are faced with the dilemma that demand for anything other than prime is thin. Many purchasers are seeking discounted prices from those perceived to be selling under pressure.’

‘When it came to Buchanan Street, BAM Properties’ message to the market was clear: it was a prime site and we would sell at only at a price representing worth. We did not have to wait long. The quick response from a keen buyer, at the required price, demonstrates the strength of demand for properties let to great tenants in the best retail pitches of the strongest cities. Buchanan Street is one of Europe’s leading retail thoroughfares and Glasgow attracts a footfall with a spending power that is ahead of all the other UK regional cities.’

‘This sale is the last in a series of successful transactions arising from the redevelopment of the site at Buchanan Street. Earlier sales, including, 28 Buchanan Street, four arcade units, and the upper floors of 20 Buchanan Street, realised over £12 million. BAM continues to focus on prime properties that attract demand from both retailers and investors.’

BAM Properties

BAM Properties is a leading player in the UK property development market. We are known for high spec developments in the corporate and retail markets that create value for investors. And our high quality, sustainable developments also bring benefits to the businesses and people who occupy them.

We are the commercial property development arm of BAM Construct UK Ltd, a major construction services company with a turnover of £1 billion a year, which also engages in construction, design, and facilities management. BAM Construct UK is part of Royal BAM Group, a worldwide construction and property services enterprise that is listed on NYSE Euronext Amsterdam.

With staff based in offices throughout the UK, BAM Properties’ key strength is our nationwide reach combined with the detailed local knowledge of the market. Added to this is the backing and resources of Royal BAM Group.

BAM Properties has developed over three million sq ft over the past 25 years. Our strength lies in our ability to read the market astutely, to anticipate future trends and demand and always delivering what we say we will deliver.

Further information:

• Mark Slattery, press and media manager, BAM Construct UK, 01442 238415;
• Richard Buxton, retail director, BAM Properties, 0141 222 1036.