W. P. Carey completes sale-leaseback operation in Bavaria

W. P. Carey finalised a sale-leaseback agreement for an industrial production property in Wasserburg, Bavaria (Germany)

Christopher Merlitz

The approximately 21,800 m2 facility is now subject to a long-term, triple-net lease with RKW, a German manufacturer of plastic films used by international companies.
This property is crucial to RKW's production, featuring advanced technical equipment, including a heat recovery system for improved sustainability. Its strategic value is enhanced by high barriers to entry for new competitors, largely due to strict industry regulations.
All of RKW's German sites, including Wasserburg, operate on 100% renewable energy. The company has achieved a 55% reduction in CO₂ emissions since 2017 and is pioneering innovation through its "ECORE" initiative, which focuses on recycling, biodegradable solutions, and the circular economy.
The lease agreement spans 20 years, with annual rent adjustments tied to the German Consumer Price Index (CPI). 
Christopher Mertlitz, head of European Investments at W. P. Carey, said: “This transaction showcases our team’s ability to move quickly to source, structure and execute attractive transactions of all sizes across Europe. The facility’s strategic importance, coupled with a market-leading tenant and a long-term lease, made it a highly compelling addition to our portfolio. We are thrilled to expand our footprint in Germany and welcome RKW as our newest tenant.”
Corrado Piroli, CFO of RKW, added: “This investment from W. P. Carey is an important step in strengthening our financial flexibility. By monetising our Wasserburg facility through a long-term sale-leaseback, we have unlocked meaningful liquidity to support our strategy.”