The expanding property firm, Ward Group Investments, has successfully carried out a significant acquisition in Durham.

Under the leadership of entrepreneur Andrew Ward, Ward Group Investments has acquired four buildings in the Bowburn North Industrial Estate, which were previously listed for £4.5m. These buildings, providing a total workspace of 200,343 sq ft, are conveniently located near the A1(M) and the new Integra 61 development, which houses Amazon’s Durham fulfilment centre.

Three out of the four buildings are currently occupied by PC Henderson Limited, Katem Logistics, and Personal Hygiene Services Ltd, all of which have been operating from the estate for over five years. The fourth building, Unit 2, is currently unoccupied. However, the Ward Group Investments team is optimistic that after refurbishment, it will attract businesses looking to leverage the area’s burgeoning reputation for last-mile logistics.

“We are thrilled with this acquisition,” said Mr Ward. “In the past two years, we’ve significantly expanded our portfolio with strategic purchases across the UK and the UAE. This is another top-tier development added to our ever-growing list. The North East, especially County Durham, is an ideal location for businesses looking to take advantage of the rising demand for last-mile logistics. The investment opportunities here are second to none.”

Ward Group Investments, established by Mr Ward in 2021 after selling his previous business, Workwear Express, for £50m to Bunzl, invests in a wide variety of properties. These include industrial, retail, office, leisure, and student accommodation in the North East and abroad.

Bradley Hall, a property agency, guided Ward Group Investments in the site’s purchase and facilitated the deal’s completion. Peter Bartley, group director at Bradley Hall, commented, “This purchase shows the high level of confidence investors have in our region’s commercial property market. Despite having multiple regional and international buyers interested in this estate, our deep understanding of the area and industry enabled us to secure this for Andrew. We are pleased to have advised Ward Group Investments on this acquisition and are confident that more exciting investments from the team will follow.”

Mr Ward concluded, “Our strategic approach to investing has been instrumental in building a highly sustainable and effective portfolio that spans almost every sector, from leisure to retail, office, student residential, and industrial property.”