Pictet, Scantum Acquire German Logistics Site

Pictet Alternative Advisors and Scantum DW have bolstered their joint logistics investment platform with the acquisition of a strategically positioned site in Kerpen, Germany. This latest move signals a continued commitment to developing modern, sustainable logistics facilities within key European distribution hubs. The acquisition from LyondellBasell involves a 22,000 square metre plot, earmarked for the construction of a circa 14,000 square metre state-of-the-art logistics building.

The Kerpen location offers significant logistical advantages, situated within the vital Rhine-Ruhr metropolitan region. Its proximity to major autobahns like the A4, A1, and A61, as well as the major city of Cologne, provides excellent connectivity. Furthermore, its accessibility to Cologne Bonn Airport and major North Sea ports such as Rotterdam and Antwerp positions it as a prime location for efficient supply chain operations. This strategic placement aligns with the growing demand for well-connected distribution centers supporting both national and international trade flows.

The development plan includes the demolition of the existing warehouse, which LyondellBasell will occupy until year-end, to make way for a new, high-specification facility. Scheduled for completion in early 2028, the new asset will prioritize environmental performance, aiming to meet the stringent EG40 energy efficiency standard. Key sustainability features will include the integration of solar panel technology and heat pump systems, alongside WHG-compliant sealing, underscoring a commitment to future-proof, green real estate development. The design will also incorporate flexible, smaller unit configurations to cater to the evolving needs of urban logistics and last-mile delivery services.

This acquisition marks the second significant addition to the Pictet Alternative Advisors and Scantum DW joint venture, expanding their combined logistics footprint to approximately 35,000 square metres upon completion of current projects. Their previous venture, a property in Hochheim am Main acquired in 2025, has already secured full pre-completion leasing to Nextrend, a subsidiary of bathroom manufacturer Duravit, demonstrating strong market demand for their developed assets. This success validates their strategy of identifying and developing high-quality logistics properties in prime locations.

Simon Geldmann of Pictet Alternative Advisors highlighted the strategic importance of the Kerpen acquisition, stating, "We are securing another asset in a highly attractive location in one of Germany’s most important logistics regions. The project is consistent with our strategy of creating modern, sustainable, and highly flexible logistics spaces that meet the requirements of urban supply chains." Echoing this sentiment, Alexander Polsak from Scantum DW added, "The combination of an excellent location, development potential, and our clear commitment to sustainability makes this acquisition particularly attractive. With our new platform, we are also creating a scalable structure to specifically invest in future-proof logistics properties."

The logistics real estate sector continues to attract substantial investment, driven by the persistent growth of e-commerce and the increasing complexity of global supply chains. Germany, as Europe's largest economy, remains a focal point for such investments, with demand for modern, well-located warehousing facilities consistently outstripping supply. The focus on sustainability and energy efficiency, as demonstrated by this project, reflects a broader industry trend towards ESG-compliant assets, which are increasingly favored by institutional investors and occupiers alike.