Cushman & Wakefield Echinox assisted MAS in the disposal of a strip mall portfolio in Romania to the M Core Group.
The portfolio consists of 7 assets with a total GLA of approximately 32,000 sqm located in Slobozia, Focsani, Ramnicu Sarat, Targu Secuiesc, Sebes, Fagaras and Gheorgheni. The properties are strategically positioned in densely populated areas next to Kaufland stores, have an occupancy rate of 100 percent and feature an impressive mix of national and international tenants, such as JYSK, Pepco, C&A, CCC, Deichmann, Sinsay, Altex, KFC, McDonald’s, etc.
Cushman & Wakefield Echinox provided strategic advisory services and transaction support, the project being coordinated by Cristi Moga, Head of Capital Markets, and Bogdan Marcu, Partner, Capital Markets. M Core Group was assisted during the process by CMS Cameron McKenna, Deloitte and IO Partners.
Cristi Moga, Head of Capital Markets, Cushman & Wakefield Echinox, said “This transaction reconfirms the recovery trend of Romania’s investment market, with the retail sector being acknowledged as a healthy and secure asset class. The quality of the portfolio was consequential for the transaction, while the professionalism of the parties involved significantly eased the process.”
Bogdan Marcu, Partner, Capital Markets, Cushman & Wakefield Echinox, said “As the macroeconomic environment and consumers’ behaviour stabilizes, we are entering a new economic cycle. This shift has sparked heightened interest in Romania from current investors seeking to expand their portfolios and newcomers. With its youthful market landscape, Romania presents considerable growth potential across all sectors. This recent transaction serves as a strong indicator of the retail market’s resilience, increased liquidity, and the overall positive sentiment among investors.”
MAS PLC continues to prioritize investments in high-quality income-generating properties across the CEE region. Known for exceptional operational performance, MAS’ retail portfolio achieved an occupancy rate of 97.4 percent as of mid-2024 and a 7.2 percent like-for-like net rental income growth. The divestment aligns with the company’s strategy to maximise total long-term shareholder returns through selective capital reallocation.
