realestate

Intel sells global properties, including Europe's London HQ, to exit long-held sites

Sale of 12.87-acre site expected to generate $12 million.

I
ntel has instructed a commercial real estate firm to sell its European headquarters in the UK, located in Swindon since 1982. The purpose-built offices span 187,000 square feet on a 12.87-acre site. According to Intel, it's shifting its global real estate strategy to focus on fewer, more populated locations and eliminate underutilized space.

    The sale comes after Intel announced plans to reduce its global real estate footprint by two-thirds. The company had hinted at leaving Swindon last year but insisted it would retain a presence in the labs and office space. Now, Intel will continue to use the extensive office space until at least 2025 while selling the property for £9 million ($12 million). It's seeking a leaseback agreement with any new owner, paying £1.9 million per annum ($2.5 million) for up to 18 months.

    Colliers, the estate agent managing the sale, highlights the site's potential for development and alternative uses, citing its proximity to the old town center and motorways. However, Intel's focus on thrift may lead it to reassess its need for UK premises in the future, potentially relocating Europe-based staff to offices in Ireland or Germany. The impact of this move on Swindon-based personnel remains uncertain.

Intel sells European headquarters in London, exiting global property portfolio worldwide.