KKR has emerged as the frontrunner to acquire Nissan Motor Co’s global headquarters in a deal estimated at JPY90bn (circa $610m), according to a report by Bloomberg citing sources familiar with the matter.
The bid was submitted via KJR Management, KKR’s Japan-based real estate platform, and is reported to be the highest among several competing offers. The proposed transaction includes a 10-year sale-leaseback arrangement, allowing Nissan to retain operational continuity at the 22-storey Yokohama office tower.
KKR and KJRM are currently exploring financing options for the deal. While discussions remain ongoing, no final agreement has been reached, and terms could still change.
The move comes as Nissan seeks to streamline its balance sheet amid ongoing restructuring efforts. The automaker has forecast JPY180 billion in operating losses for H1 FY2025 and faces JPY5.6bn in debt maturities next year. Its turnaround plan includes workforce reductions and consolidation of manufacturing facilities.
For KKR, the potential acquisition adds to a growing portfolio in Japan, which Co-CEO Joseph Bae recently identified as the firm’s most active international market. In February, KKR completed a $4.4bn take-private of Tokyo-listed Fuji Soft.
Both KKR and Nissan declined to comment on the transaction.
