Empiric today filed a trading update with occupancy of 89% achieved, but this was below the 95% recorded the year before. Like-for-like rental growth of 4.5% was in line with guidance.

In response, Unite — which last month reported missing its own sales and rental growth targets — has revealed it assumed lower occupancy and rental growth when appraising Empiric prior to its takeover bids.

“Our strategic rationale for the acquisition is underpinned by Empiric's proven platform for expansion among returning students,” added Unite in its own update.

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“We are actively preparing for integration following completion of the acquisition and continue to see a meaningful opportunity to improve occupancy across the Empiric portfolio over the next three years through our operational platform, strong university relationships and enhanced customer retention.”

In addition, Unite reaffirms its confidence in delivering anticipated cost savings of at least £13.7m from the acquisition. Earlier this year when the deal was announced a headcount reduction at Empiric of “approximately 40%” was anticipated by Unite.

Unite revealed the Competition and Markets Authority has begun its review of the acquisition, with the scheme expected to become effective in the second quarter of 2026.