Equites Property Fund posts double-digit FY revenue growth

Equites Property Fund, a leading logistics real estate investment trust, has delivered impressive financial results for the fiscal year, showcasing robust growth and a strategic focus on the logistics sector. The company's CEO, Andrea Taverna-Turisan, discussed the firm's performance in an interview with CNBC Africa's Godfrey Mutizwa, highlighting key achievements and future prospects. Equites' portfolio stands at a substantial 27.7 billion rand, with full occupancy in South Africa and minimal vacancies in the UK. The company successfully executed a 2.4 billion rand disposal strategy and increased dividends by 2.1%, with a promising outlook for further growth. Taverna-Turisan emphasized Equites' resilience in navigating macroeconomic challenges and its commitment to sustainable expansion. With a projected dividend growth of 5% to 7%, Equites is poised for continued success in delivering value to shareholders. The CEO addressed investor concerns about dividend payouts, assuring a positive trajectory towards higher returns and sustainable growth. Equites' strong performance in South Africa, particularly in Hauting, underscores the region's significance as a key market for logistics operations. The company's partnerships with major retailers like Shoprite and TFG have fueled demand for premium logistics facilities, driving operational efficiency and supply chain optimization. In the UK, Equites has maintained a solid business performance despite prevailing macroeconomic headwinds, with 100% hedged debt shielding the company from interest rate volatility. Despite challenges in deploying capital in the UK, Equites remains open to strategic opportunities that align with its shareholder value proposition. The firm's strategic asset optimization and focus on ESG compliance are key pillars of its growth strategy. Equites has divested non-core and older assets to fund new developments and enhance operational capabilities, reflecting a forward-looking approach to portfolio management. The company's commitment to ESG standards is evident in its adoption of solar energy and sustainability initiatives across its properties, with a target of achieving 100% ESG compliance in the foreseeable future. Equites' proactive stance towards technological innovation and industry best practices positions it as a market leader in the logistics real estate sector. CEO Andrea Taverna-Turisan's vision for Equites is centered on driving value creation, operational efficiency, and long-term sustainability, ensuring the company's resilience and relevance in a dynamic market landscape.