Mike Ashley's Frasers Group is reported to have placed a property portfolio - including Berryden Retail Park - up for sale in a move which could fetch upwards of £320million.
The Sunday Times reports that Ashley is keen to capitalise on renewed investor demand for retail parks, which are perceived to be less at risk than high streets from the rise of e-commerce.
Retailers are using larger stores on retail parks as distribution centres and click-and-collect hubs, and the sportswear billionaire has amassed a portfolio of retail parks, shopping parades and standalone shops over several years.
Ashley is selling 16 assets, including retail parks in Wigan, Cheshunt, Aberdeen, Thurrock and Cheetham Hill, near Manchester.
Frasers Group purchased the Berryden Retail Park in 2020 and also owns a substantial unit on Union Street.
Ashley’s retail chains, which include Sports Direct, House of Fraser and Flannels, make up about a quarter of the income across the portfolio.
The £320million asking price for Ashley’s retail assets represents a yield of 7%. The process is being handled by property agents at CBRE, according to the Sunday Times.