ALLY, the real estate and leasehold investment trust, emphasizes its diverse asset portfolio and plans to invest in new assets. The trust is currently exploring investment opportunities in community malls with an area of no more than 5,000 square meters, focusing on projects in prime locations, unique project designs, tenants that are well-known brands, experienced developers, and a yield of at least 10%. It is expected to finalize at least one project in the second half of the year to enhance returns for trust unit holders.

Mr. Kwinthir Eamsakulrat, CEO of Ally REIT Management Co., Ltd., the manager of the ALLY trust, revealed that the ALLY trust focuses on investing in various types of assets, with its main assets being commercial real estate in the form of community malls. These are managed comprehensively in high-potential locations in Bangkok and tourist provinces with high population and purchasing power. Currently, there are 14 shopping center projects under management, with a total net leasable area of approximately 164,520 square meters. Recently, the ALLY trust has set a policy to invest in new quality community mall assets at least 1-3 projects per year.

Recently, ALLY has successfully invested in the ownership of a new asset, the Happy Avenue Don Mueang project. For the next investment, the trust will consider investing in small, quality community malls primarily in Bangkok and its vicinity. Currently, it is evaluating new asset investment opportunities based on five criteria: 1.) Good Location - the community mall must be located on a main road and surrounded by a community with good purchasing power and easy access; 2.) Unique Project Design - the project should have a distinctive design and decoration style with a clear community mall concept, including ongoing maintenance; 3.) Tenants that are Well-Known Brands - capable of attracting customers; 4.) Experienced Developer - the owner or developer must have management experience; and 5.) Good Yield - the project must show continuous growth and generate a yield of at least 10% each year.

Currently, the trust is negotiating with developers for at least three community mall projects, expecting to finalize at least one project in the remaining part of this year. The investment in new assets is expected to be funded from cash flow, which will not affect the debt-to-equity (D/E) ratio and the distribution of benefits to trust unit holders, aiming to reduce financial costs and increase returns for trust unit holders.

“After the COVID-19 pandemic, we have observed that landowners are developing new land into small community malls with clear themes and concepts. Additionally, property owners are seeking professional management to foster growth. Therefore, we have studied and compiled data on small community malls with project areas of about 5,000 square meters in various locations for consideration. Even though they are small community malls, we believe they have the potential for good returns,” Mr. Kwinthir stated.

Moreover, the trust is ready to advance its asset management strategy for ALLY to create "Green Community Malls" focusing on three areas: 1.) Green Public Space - increasing green spaces that cater to outdoor needs, providing easy access as a meeting point for customers. Currently, projects are being gradually improved to better meet the lifestyle of visitors; 2.) Curated Tenants & Mix - selecting diverse tenants suitable for each project's location to increase traffic, with plans for ongoing new activities and campaigns to stimulate purchasing power through loyalty programs like Ally Sky Rewards; and 3.) ESG Leadership - being a leader in ESG, which is crucial for community malls, focusing on environmental, social, and good governance factors.