Retail

Investor demand for essential services properties remains at record levels despite the Greater Sydney coronavirus lockdown, with buyers snapping up more than $90 million in COVID-proof assets at auction.

Private investors and major property players are increasingly targeting Bunnings properties, as the hardware retailer’s strong performance during the coronavirus pandemic cements its investment appeal.

Lygon St might see fewer stores “dishing out pasta” after Covid-19 has left one in five shopfronts empty on the iconic strip.

The property trust has sounded a warning for big mall landlords and the broader economy amid uncertainty over pandemic shutdowns.

The cinema chain owned by billionaire businessman Alan Rydge has called on the federal government to reintroduce JobKeeper while Freedom Furniture has stood down staff in NSW

Private investors are scrambling to secure essential services properties able to trade during COVID-19 lockdowns, ahead of a $65 million portfolio auction.

COVID-19 has fuelled demand for service stations as investors chase “pandemic-proof” businesses, with several fuel assets up for grabs as part of a $165 million portfolio auction of essential services properties.

Private investors targeting retail assets have snapped up a Bunnings and two Coles-anchored shopping centres in regional Victoria for almost $80 million in total as sales activity ramps up.

A first-time Chinese investor has paid $4.5 million for a Victorian shopping plaza as regional assets attract international interest.