Ardent launches new $530m U.K. real estate investment business

The Ardent Cos. has launched a new U.K. business with a major $230 million strategic acquisition fund, Ardent Strategic Fund I, as well as a $300 million debt fund.

The U.K. business, called The Ardent Companies UK Ltd (Ardent UK), will be led by Richard Benson and Andrew Hilston who, until recently, both held senior roles at Battersea Power Station in London.

Ardent UK will continue Ardent’s strategy of being opportunity-driven and sector-agnostic by sourcing opportunities across the U.K. market. Particular focus will be given to opportunities within established asset classes where Ardent UK can apply value-add initiatives to derive returns that are consistent with the level of Ardent’s performance to date. In addition to the direct acquisition of real estate assets through the Ardent Strategic Fund I, Ardent will also provide debt to the U.K. market and is currently raising its fourth debt fund — Ardent Financial Fund IV — with the intention of providin