New Hammerson boss identifies “multiple paths for growth” as REIT sees record leasing in 2025
Hammerson’s new chief executive officer Rob Wilkinson has said the real estate investment trust (REIT) has identified “multiple paths for growth”, following record leasing in 2025.
In the year ending 31 December 2025, the group recorded £51m of leasing income, up by 18% on a like-for-like basis. This new income was completed at 46% ahead of previous passing rent, and at a 13% increase on a like-for-like basis excluding voids.
Over the same period, the REIT’s total net rental income was up by 23% to £180m, supplemented by like-for-like growth and joint venture acquisitions.
Hammerson also saw its portfolio value increase by 33% in 2025 to £3.5bn, with assets under management worth £4.4bn.
The group also invested £757m into Westquay, Brent Cross, Bullring and Grand Central, and The Oracle, since November 2024, at an average yield of 7.6%.
Rob Wilkinson took over as CEO of Hammerson at the beginning of the year, succeeding Rita-Rose Gagne who stepped down after five years in the role.
Rob Wilkinson said: “I’m excited to be leading Hammerson as we embark on our next phase of growth. These strong results are testament to the quality of our unique portfolio, our integrated pure-play platform, and the hard work of our teams. The success of best-in-class retail-led city destinations is evident in our record leasing at positive spreads, very high occupancy, and growing footfall and sales, leading to rental growth.
“We will maintain our focus on our ongoing active asset management and targeted leasing. This gives is high visibility of our income streams. We have a clear line of sight to growth in rental income, earnings and dividend in FY26 and beyond, with multiple paths for growth, further increasing our scale and value creation.”