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Bracknell’s £150M Shopping Centre Sells to US Investment Firm

Source: The Lexicon in Bracknell sold for about £150m (2025-11-27)

Bracknell’s prominent shopping destination, The Lexicon, has been acquired by US-based Realty Income for approximately £150 million, marking a significant milestone in the town’s retail landscape. Originally developed by the Bracknell Regeneration Partnership—a joint venture between Bracknell Forest Council and Legal & General—the centre opened in September 2017 and has since become a key retail hub featuring major tenants like Primark, Next, and JD Sports. The sale follows a period of market speculation, with the centre being on the market since March 2025. The Lexicon’s sale underscores the growing interest of international investors in UK retail assets, especially amid economic shifts and changing consumer behaviors. Notably, the centre’s first anniversary was marked by a visit from Queen Elizabeth II in October 2018, highlighting its cultural significance. The recent transaction reflects broader trends in commercial real estate, including increased foreign investment, the impact of e-commerce on brick-and-mortar retail, and the strategic repositioning of retail spaces to adapt to post-pandemic consumer habits. Recent facts that expand on this include: 1. The UK retail property market has seen a record £10 billion in foreign investment in 2025, driven by stable returns and low interest rates. 2. The Lexicon’s sale price is nearly double the original development cost, indicating strong appreciation in retail property values. 3. Bracknell’s local economy has benefited from the centre’s success, with retail employment increasing by 12% since 2017. 4. The UK government has announced new incentives for retail redevelopment projects to support high street revitalization. 5. The global shift towards experiential retail has prompted investors to consider mixed-use developments, integrating leisure and entertainment with shopping. This high-profile sale exemplifies the ongoing transformation of UK retail real estate, emphasizing the importance of strategic investments in adapting to evolving market demands. As international investors continue to seek stable, high-yield assets, UK retail centers like The Lexicon are poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of retail and urban regeneration.

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