Successful listing to aid expansion plans into the PRS sector

Student tower in Cardiff Watkin Jones

Welsh developer and contractor Watkin Jones has floated on the stock exchange, raising 拢131m from investors. The student accommodation specialist鈥檚 market cap on admission to AIM was valued at 拢255m.

The company hopes the listing on the stock exchange will provide it with a platform for growth and allow it to proced with its expansion plans into the private rented sector.

Mark Watkin Jones, chief executive of Watkin Jones, said: 鈥淭he strong reception that the company has received from investors has been very encouraging and we are delighted with the success of our admission to AIM, which is a significant milestone in the evolution of our business.鈥

Watkin Jones was aided in its floatation by Zeus Capital acting as nominated adviser, joint bookrunner and joint broker, with Peel Hunt as joint bookrunner and joint broker.

Earlier this month the company achieved planning permission for what is set to become Wales鈥 tallest building (pictured). Located in Cardiff it will provide student accommodation and retail at the ground level.