Welltower Inc. (NYSE: WELL), a leading U.S. real estate investment trust specialising in healthcare infrastructure, today announced the acquisition of Barchester Healthcare, the United Kingdom’s second-largest nursing home operator, in a transaction valued at £5.2 billion. This marks the world’s largest care home acquisition to date, surpassing all previous records in the sector.

The acquisition includes Barchester’s full portfolio of more than 230 care homes and hospitals across the UK, along with a development pipeline of 21 new projects scheduled for completion by 2028. The deal also covers Limecay, Barchester’s property holding subsidiary. Under the agreement, Barchester’s current management team will remain in place, and operations will continue under the Barchester Healthcare name. The sellers, Irish business figures JP McManus, John Magnier, and Dermot Desmond, will fully exit their ownership positions as part of the transaction.

The acquisition cements Welltower’s position as the largest overseas investor in the UK’s social care market, bringing its total investment in UK healthcare assets to £6.4 billion when combined with its recent £1.2 billion acquisition of HC-One care homes. The transaction reflects strong investor confidence in the healthcare real estate sector, driven by rising care home fees, steady occupancy levels, and demographic trends that continue to support long-term demand for senior care services.

Barchester’s portfolio comprises a diverse mix of RIDEA-aligned and triple-net leased communities, providing both operational flexibility and stable income streams. The transaction is expected to raise Welltower’s net operating income from the senior housing segment into the mid-80 percent range of its overall business.

Welltower’s financial strength and planned technological investments are expected to position Barchester for further growth, enhancing care quality, efficiency, and innovation. All existing staff and leadership will remain in place, ensuring operational continuity and a continued focus on high standards of care.

This acquisition marks a significant shift in UK elderly care infrastructure ownership, reflecting an ongoing transition from domestic to global capital investment. It also underscores the growing internationalisation and institutionalis0ation of the social care sector. Welltower has indicated plans to continue expanding its UK footprint over the next decade, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable, high-quality senior care environments.