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Asda Sells 24 Sites for £568 Million Amid Debt Crisis

11/21/2025

35 2 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Asda has agreed to sell 24 sites and a depot for £568 million in sale-and-leaseback.
Blue Owl Capital will buy ten stores and a depot in Lutterworth.
A joint venture between Blue Owl Capital and Supermarket Income REIT will acquire ten more stores.
London-based DTZ Investors will take the remaining four sites.
Asda will rent back the properties on 25-year leases to support finances amid £3.8 billion net debt as of 2024.

History

Historical Context

Asda, originally founded in 1949, was acquired by Walmart in 1999 for £6.7 billion, marking a significant shift in the UK retail landscape. Following recent sales declines of 3.9%, Asda's strategy has shifted, including the sale of 24 stores for £568 million. This reflects ongoing challenges against competitors like Tesco and Sainsbury's, potentially reducing Asda's market presence.

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Story summary

Asda has agreed to sell 24 sites and a depot for £568 million in sale-and-leaseback.
Blue Owl Capital will buy ten stores and a depot in Lutterworth.
A joint venture between Blue Owl Capital and Supermarket Income REIT will acquire ten more stores.
London-based DTZ Investors will take the remaining four sites.
Asda will rent back the properties on 25-year leases to support finances amid £3.8 billion net debt as of 2024.

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