AEW Europe has merged three existing logistics funds to create a EUR 1 bn pan-European logistics platform. The investment manager claims the new fund, named Logistis, is one of the largest logistics investment platforms in Europe.

'To succeed in the logistics sector you need critical mass to provide a pan-European offering to occupiers and ensure operational efficiencies throughout the platform,' said Christian Delaire, chief executive of AEW Europe. 'This merger creates a leading brand in logistics and a platform that will allow further growth across Europe.'

The logistics market has been undergoing structural change and consolidation in recent years as logistics providers seek to increase market share and geographical coverage. Third-party logistics providers and retailers are increasingly seeking to work with fewer partners who can provide facilities across a number of locations and countries.

Following the merger, the Logistis portfolio will comprise 56 facilities representing 1.6 million m2 across Europe. The market value of the portfolio at December 2011 was EUR 1 bn.

The fund will continue to invest in sustainable logistics assets at national and metropolitan distribution centres in Western European markets. The focus will be on France, Germany and the Benelux countries.