Mitiska REIM, an investor specialised in European retail parks, has tannounced the successful second closing of its First Retail International 2 Fund (FRI 2) close to €190 million, significantly exceeding its original target of €120 to 150 million. Allowing for gearing of 50%, the Fund’s gross investment capability is now close to €400 million.
FRI 2 is a closed-end fund which invests exclusively in European peripheral retail properties, both clustered standalone units and integrated retail parks, with a target net IRR of 10%+ per annum. The Fund has already committed up to €105 million for retail park developments and acquisitions in Romania, Poland and the Czech Republic, and Mitiska REIM’s investment team are actively investigating investment opportunities across Western, Central and Eastern Europe. A third and final round of fundraising is expected to take place in September 2016.
Commenting on the second closing, Luc Geuten, Executive Chairman of Mitiska REIM, said: “We believe that retail parks are one of the most exciting and attractive real estate opportunities in Europe, and our successful fundraising for FRI 2 is a testament to the attractiveness of this asset class to investors.”
Commenting on Mitiska REIM’s investment focus, Axel Despriet, CEO, said: “Across Eastern Europe, retail parks are one of the most important and fastest growing parts of the retail real estate sector, with consumers attracted to the convenient locations and focus on everyday shopping needs. Across Western and Central Europe, retail parks are increasingly becoming the first choice among retailers, attracted by the highly visible locations, low occupancy costs and the fact that shoppers visit with an intention to buy. ”
