Unite Group completes purchase of Empiric Student Property

Unite Group has completed its purchase of Empiric Student Property (Empiric), bringing the Hello Student brand into the business and marking a significant step forward in the Group’s strategy to support students throughout their entire university journey.

The acquisition completed on 28^th January and includes all Empiric assets, adding 7,700 beds across 68 buildings in 22 cities to the Group’s portfolio. Hello Student’s properties cater largely to returning and postgraduate students, offering a different style of accommodation that complements the Unite Students portfolio, which focuses primarily on first-year living.

Together, the combined portfolio now offers 71,000 beds across 29 cities, with 92% located in Russell Group cities. This scale and diversity provide the Group with the ability to offer a wider range of homes tailored to students’ evolving needs as they progress through their studies.

The acquisition strengthens the Group’s long-term outlook. Alongside established university partnerships and an active development pipeline, it opens up a broader customer base at pace and scale.

Joe Lister, Chief Executive of Unite Group, says:

“Bringing Hello Student into the Group is an exciting moment for our business. Its high quality, complementary portfolio enhances our ability to support students throughout their academic journey, particularly in the returner and postgrad segments. With a scalable platform and strong university relationships, we are well placed to deliver value for money accommodation in the UK’s leading university cities.”

This acquisition reinforces Unite Group’s purpose of providing students with a Home for Success, expanding the choices available to residents and enhancing the experience delivered at every stage of student life.

You can find more details about the acquisition here.