#USA #Atlanta #Wood Partners #Multifamily Development #ITOCHU Corporation

Wood Partners Welcomes ITOCHU Corporation's Strategic Investment

In a significant move poised to enhance its operational capabilities, Wood Partners, one of the United States' foremost developers of multifamily communities, has announced a strategic minority investment by ITOCHU Corporation. With this partnership, ITOCHU, a Tokyo-based global trading company, acquires a 19.5% stake in Wood Partners, marking a new chapter in the latter’s growth trajectory.

Joe Keough, Chairman and CEO of Wood Partners, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, emphasizing its potential to open new avenues for capital and strategic collaborations. According to Keough, ITOCHU’s extensive global network and expertise will be instrumental in augmenting Wood Partners' existing strengths and future endeavors. This collaboration is particularly timely as Wood Partners seeks to expand its footprint and continue delivering high-quality multifamily communities across the United States.

Despite this fresh investment, the management structure at Wood Partners remains resolute. The existing leadership team retains majority ownership, thereby ensuring that the company’s strategic direction, culture, and operational excellence remain intact. Furthermore, Fayez Sarofim & Co., a long-standing partner of Wood, continues to hold a significant minority interest in the company, reinforcing its foundational ties as they embark on this new venture.

The financial specifics of the deal have not been disclosed, but it signals Wood Partners’ intent to strengthen its capital relationships and pursue sustained growth. With a portfolio that encompasses more than 80 properties, accounting for approximately 25,000 homes, Wood Partners stands as a leader in the multifamily housing sector. The company’s seasoned management team is poised to leverage the new partnership to explore innovative projects while maintaining their commitment to quality and community building.

Wood Partners has a remarkable track record, having developed over 115,000 multifamily homes valued at approximately $24 billion throughout its history. Ranked as the third-largest multifamily developer in the United States by the National Multifamily Housing Council (NMHC) in 2025, the firm’s strength lies not only in its financial metrics but also in its visionary approach to community crafting. By integrating the expertise and support from ITOCHU, Wood Partners aims to accelerate its growth and explore new projects that align with its strategic goals.

Baker McKenzie LLP acted as legal counsel to Wood Partners, while SMBC Nikko Securities America, Inc. served as the financial advisor for this transaction, ensuring a smooth transition into this new phase of partnership.

As Wood Partners looks to the future, the partnership with ITOCHU stands as a testament to the company’s resilience and ability to adapt within the dynamic real estate landscape. The forthcoming years will undoubtedly reveal the synergies between Wood Partners and ITOCHU, with a shared vision for innovation and excellence in multifamily development taking center stage.