Commercialising University Property Assets: Six Key Issues

Universities are increasingly commercialising their operations, and this includes, to a large degree, their property assets, both to enhance the student experience and to generate revenue. The shift in power dynamic towards the student, and the increasing demand for outstanding buildings and facilities, means that it is not uncommon to find a wide variety of retail and dining options on campuses, as well as other commercial service offerings, such as ATMs, banks, kiosks and shops.

So what are the key considerations and pitfalls when universities become commercial landlords?

Good systems and processes. These should form the foundation of the entire commercially let portfolio. Are your systems set up in the right way to deal with commercial lettings? Do you know where the risks lie and is there someone central managing them? Any institution needs to establish good practices to manage the wide variety of issues that need dealing with, from consideration of the initial