JLL BeLux Capital Markets facilitates successful forward-funding sale of Maasmechelen Logistics Center

JLL BeLux's Capital Markets team has successfully assisted their client in the forward-funding sale of Maasmechelen Logistics to a dedicated logistics investment fund managed by Catella Investment Management Benelux & Real Estate. This state-of-the-art logistics center is poised to be completed in early Q3 2024 and will boast advanced features, including a gross floor area of 25,382 sqm of warehouse space and 1,483 sqm of office space. Notably, the property will hold a BREEAM-very good certificate, an EPC-A label, and will be equipped with solar panels on the roof. Upon completion, the renowned Dutch logistics provider, De Klok Logistics, will occupy the premises. 

This transaction marks another significant milestone for JLL in the Belgian logistics market and reinforces the confidence of international institutional investors in the country's robust fundamentals.

The strategic location of Belgium as the gateway to Europe, coupled with its remarkably low vacancy rates, contributes to the country's strong fundamentals that continue to attract investments despite prevailing conditions. Indeed, the logistics segment experienced a slow start in Q1 2024, with a 26% decrease in rented area or acquired for own use compared to Q1 2023. Moreover, we can observe a cautious approach by developers, as over 84% of the projects launched during Q1 2024 were non-speculative.

JLL is proud to have successfully facilitated this significant transaction, showcasing our deep understanding of the Belgian market and our expertise in assisting clients through complex real estate deals.

Vincent Van Brée, Head of Capital Markets BeLux, says: "We are very pleased to announce that our JLL BeLux Capital Markets team has successfully advised its client, a developer, with the forward-funding sale of Maasmechelen Logistics to a dedicated logistics investment fund managed by Catella Investment Management Benelux & Real Estate. This transaction not only showcases our expertise in facilitating complex real estate deals, but it is also a testament to the increasing emphasis on sustainability in the market. The state-of-the-art logistics center, with its BREEAM-very good certificate, EPC-A label, and solar panels on the roof, exemplifies our commitment to promoting sustainable solutions in commercial real estate."

Moving forward, JLL remains committed to providing exceptional advisory services and creating value for its clients in the ever-evolving commercial real estate landscape.