April 10 (Reuters) - Britain's largest student housing provider Unite Group reiterated its occupancy and rental growth outlook for the 2026/27 academic year on Friday and said it was exploring options
Student housing group Unite looks to accelerate asset sales as it keeps outlook
Unite Group's Strategic Asset Sales and Market Outlook
Exploring Options to Speed Up Asset Sales
April 10 (Reuters) - Unite Group said on Friday it was exploring options to speed up asset sales and kept its annual occupancy and rental growth outlook, as Britain's largest student housing provider sharpens its focus on accommodations yielding higher returns.
Focus on Higher-Yielding Accommodations
The group is selling lower-yielding assets to focus on services for those UK universities with higher and stricter entry criteria, as rising education costs curb demand from international postgraduate students, and tighter visa rules weigh on enrolments.
Details of Disposals and Advisory Appointment
The company said 130 million pounds ($174.42 million) of disposals had been completed or ongoing, and about 500 million pounds more were being marketed or prepared for sale over the next six to 12 months, adding that Goldman Sachs had been appointed to advise on accelerating the disposal programme.
Occupancy and Rental Growth Expectations
Reservation Status for Upcoming Academic Year
About 74% of Unite's beds have been reserved for the 2026/27 academic year and the group continues to expect occupancy and rental growth at the lower end of its 93%-96% and 2%-3% forecast ranges, respectively.
Impact of External Factors on Financial Performance
Middle East War and Utility Cost Hedging
The company also said the Middle East war was not expected to materially impact its financial performance in 2026, with utility costs fully hedged through 2026 and about 70% for 2027.
Exchange Rate Information
($1 = 0.7453 pounds)
Reporting and Editing Credits
(Reporting by Nithyashree R B in Bengaluru; Editing by Subhranshu Sahu)
