The firm switched to real estate investment trust (REIT) status when they were introduced in the United Kingdom in January 2007.

The business was founded by Lewis Hammerson, who began to invest in property in 1942, converting houses into apartments.

[7] In March 2018, Hammerson rejected a £4.9 billion takeover offer from the French property development firm, Klépierre.

[9] The company's portfolio, including its investment in joint ventures and associates, was valued at £3.8 billion as at 31 December 2023.

[1] Hammerson have interests in several major retail developments, including:[10] Hammerson, Henderson Group and Future Fund together form the Birmingham Alliance, who are responsible for the Bullring,[4] Martineau Place and the up-coming Martineau Galleries development.