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URW presents ‘A Platform for Growth’ 2025-28 business plan
GlobeNewswire·2025-05-14 06:15

Core Viewpoint - URW has unveiled its 2025-28 business plan titled 'A Platform for Growth', targeting annual EBITDA growth of 5.80-6.60% during this period [1][2]. Financial Targets - The company aims for a Net Debt to EBITDA ratio of approximately 8.0x and a Loan-to-Value ratio of around 40% by 2028 [2][23]. - URW plans to distribute at least €3.1 billion in cumulative shareholder distributions from fiscal years 2025 to 2028, with a proposed distribution of €4.50 per share for fiscal year 2025, representing a 30% increase from 2024 [2][26]. Growth Drivers - The growth strategy is supported by dominant flagship retail assets in high-income markets in Europe and the US, which are expected to drive strong organic growth above indexation [3][10]. - Retail media expansion through Westfield Rise is anticipated to contribute significantly, with net income projected to reach €180 million by 2028, a 56% increase compared to 2024 [5][13]. - New licensing business revenues are expected to reach €25-35 million in annualized EBITDA by 2028, enhancing the Westfield brand's international presence [4][16]. Capital Allocation and Project Deliveries - URW has planned disposals of €2.2 billion in 2025 and early 2026, with €1 billion already secured, which will support disciplined capital allocation and cover capex requirements [5][17]. - Annual capex is projected to normalize at approximately €600 million from 2026 onwards, funded through organic cash flow generation [5][18]. Rental Income and Market Position - The company targets like-for-like Net Rental Income (NRI) growth of 260-330 basis points above indexation from 2025 to 2028, driven by increased footfall, sales intensity, and market share gains [8][10]. - URW's flagship Westfield destinations outperform peers in sales intensity by 26%, benefiting from prime locations and high customer traffic of over 900 million visits annually [9][28]. Deleveraging Strategy - By 2028, URW aims to reduce its Net Debt/EBITDA ratio to approximately 8.0x from 9.5x in 2024, supported by planned disposals and disciplined capital allocation [23][24].