Proximus forges ahead with strategic real estate plan
Proximus, a leading telecommunications provider in Belgium, has reached a definitive agreement with Nextensa concerning its future real estate footprint. The deal involves the sale of Proximus's existing office towers and a long-term lease agreement for its new headquarters located at the dynamic Tour & Taxis site in Brussels.
The deal specifics: asset divestment and future investment
Under the agreement, Nextensa will acquire the current Proximus Towers for a sum of 62.5 million euros. This price is reported to be in line with current market valuations and includes a potential future profit-sharing arrangement. This sale is a significant step for Proximus, contributing to its stated ambition to divest over 500 million euros in non-core assets by 2027. With this transaction, Proximus has now achieved approximately 330 million euros in asset disposals.
The choice of Tour & Taxis for the new headquarters is presented as a strategic decision. Proximus cites financial advantages, environmental benefits (moving into one of Belgium's most sustainable new buildings), and strategic positioning as key drivers. The new location promises a modern, sustainable workplace ready for occupancy in 2027, developed and managed by Nextensa.
Implications for Businesses Seeking Office Space
The Proximus-Nextensa deal underscores several trends relevant to businesses evaluating their own workspace needs:
Strategic location is paramount
Proximus's selection of Tour & Taxis emphasizes the importance of a location that offers strategic benefits, accessibility, and integration within a vibrant urban environment. Businesses should consider how a location supports employee well-being, access to talent, and corporate identity.
Sustainability as a key driver
Opting for one of Belgium's most sustainable new buildings aligns with growing corporate commitments to environmental responsibility. Modern businesses are increasingly prioritizing energy efficiency and sustainable design in their office spaces, seeking buildings that not only reduce environmental impact but also potentially lower operational costs.
Modern & flexible work environments
The move to a new headquarters designed for a modern workforce highlights the need for spaces that facilitate collaboration, flexibility, and employee comfort. Companies are rethinking traditional office layouts to support hybrid work models and enhance productivity.
Real estate as a financial & strategic asset
Proximus's move demonstrates how managing real estate assets is integral to overall corporate financial strategy, including divestment of non-core holdings and strategic investment in future-proof facilities.
The partnership between a major corporation like Proximus and a developer like Nextensa for a build-to-suit or build-to-rent solution at a prime location like Tour & Taxis illustrates the types of opportunities available in the market for companies looking to optimize their real estate portfolio.
Source: proximus.com
