Welcome subscribers,
Life sciences exemplify operational real estate, where property investment success depends on understanding both buildings and the specialised businesses operating within them. Read our analysis of this market segment, along with the latest property deals from new builds to acquisitions:
✅ Germany: clinical trials facility in Mannheim
✅ Ireland: GE Healthcare expands in Cork
✅ Netherlands: Kadans at Utrecht Science Park
✅ UK: GIC extends its King's Cross footprint
Read more below for all the details.
Building for success: How operational real estate supports the life sciences industry
OpRE combines real estate and business operations, where the return is directly linked to operational revenues.
Transactions
AUSTRIA VIENNA
In January 2025, BeeVital GmbH leased warehouse space in Korneuburg, 12 km (7.5 miles) northwest of Vienna. The property comprises two storage units with a total area of 1,256 sq m (13,520 sq ft). BeeVital is a pharmaceutical company focusing on veterinary solutions for beekeeping. Read more.
GERMANY MANNHEIM
In January 2025, hVIVO plc, a clinical trials organisation, acquired two clinical research units from German contract research organisation CRS Clinical Research Services Management GmbH for €10 million (£8.4 million). The Mannheim and Kiel units, known for cardiometabolic, immunology, and renal trials, add 120 beds to hVIVO's capacity. The acquisition enhances hVIVO's Phase I and II trials services and expands its European footprint. CRS Berlin will continue to operate as an independent site. Read more.
UK CAMBRIDGE
Brockton Everlast has acquired Building 270 at Cambridge Science Park from CBRE Investment Management for £22.5 million (€26.8 million), reflecting a yield of over 4.5%. The 40,000 sq ft (3,720 sq m) building, currently leased to World Pay for another four years, offers medium-term value-add potential through refurbishment and possible extension opportunities. This off-market acquisition strengthens Brockton's position as the largest private owner at Cambridge Science Park with over 33 acres of holdings, built up through several major acquisitions including a £200 million (€238 million) purchase from TusPark in 2022 and a £100 million (€119 million) portfolio from L&G in 2021. The deal was brokered by DTRE for Brockton and Bidwells for CBRE Investment Management.
