Freeths advises Ashtrom Properties UK Limited on acquisition of Retail World

Leading law firm Freeths has advised Ashtrom Properties UK Limited (AP UK) on its acquisition of Retail World at Team Valley in Gateshead.

Headquartered in London, AP UK is a privately owned real estate company specialising in the acquisition and development of prime real estate, including notable commercial and office schemes such as Exchange Flags in Liverpool, No. 8 First Street in Manchester, Central Square in Leeds, and Colmore Gate in Birmingham.

Retail World is one of the North’s standout retail destinations, offering 391,000 sq. ft of versatile space and a diverse mix of more than 30 well-established brands that continue to drive strong regional footfall. This major transaction marks one of the most significant regional real estate deals of the past year.

The transaction was led by Freeths Real Estate team, comprising Director Ayesha Qayum, Partners Craig Jones and Daniel Abrahams and Senior Associate Sophie Moonshine, together with support from the Corporate team, including Partner Robert Chidley, Director Matthew Cooper and Senior Associate Angelina Mikelova Szentpali. They were further supported by the wider Real Estate and Corporate teams as well as other specialists across Planning, Construction, Tax and Commercial.

With 13 offices across the UK, Freeths’ specialist Real Estate practice continues to go from strength to strength.

Commenting on the deal, Ayesha Qayum said: “It has been a privilege to advise AP UK on this landmark acquisition of Retail World. Acting on such a significant transaction for our client has been incredibly rewarding, and I am delighted to have played a role in supporting their ongoing growth within the UK property market.”

Guy Lewinsohn, CEO of AP UK, said: "We are delighted to have completed the acquisition of Retail World at Team Valley. This investment aligns with our strategy to expand our UK footprint and invest in high-performing regional assets. We appreciate the dedication and expertise of the Freeths team together with all the advisers involved in bringing this transaction to a successful close."

Sarah Jelly, Director and Head of Legal at AP UK added: “Navigating the intricacies of this corporate acquisition was a collective effort of which the AP UK team are very proud. The team at Freeths provided seamless legal support and the technical expertise necessary to bring this complex deal to a conclusion.”