Connections and Conversations at MIPIM
As MIPIM 2025 comes to an end, it’s a good time to look back on an eventful week in Cannes. Despite the grey skies and relentless rain, the energy inside the Palais was anything but dull. This year’s theme, Housing for All, sparked important conversations about accessibility, affordability, and sustainability in real estate; big issues that will shape the future of our industry.
Reasons to be optimistic
One of the key takeaways from MIPIM 2025 was a sense of optimism, even with the challenges in the market. At the DLA Piper brunch, discussions pointed to an increase in lending and transactions, with Scotland regaining investor confidence as the market adapts to changing rent legislation.
The key topics
Beyond investment trends and market confidence, a few key topics kept coming up throughout the week:
Making sure our buildings are safe for the long term is a huge focus, with plenty of discussions around how to balance regulation, responsibility, and the practicalities of implementation.
Real estate is embracing AI in new ways, from investment analysis to property management. One particularly bold claim suggested that AI could replace marriage within five years, but what it definitely won’t replace is the value of human relationships in this industry.
Many businesses are considering outsourcing operations to the Philippines as a way to improve efficiency while keeping service quality high.
MIPIM always brings great discussions about how people want to live, work, and interact with the spaces around them. Whether it’s sustainability, affordability, or shifting occupier needs, it’s clear that adaptability is key.
Connecting
While the panels, keynotes, and exhibitions provided plenty of food for thought, some of the best conversations happened outside the conference rooms. Catching up with Brian Harris, who we first met at MIPIM eight years ago, was a highlight.
Reconnecting with long-time industry friends and colleagues like DLA Piper, Dandara, AFK, CGL, Wonderhatch, ING, Town Legal, Loft, and Fusion was another reminder that real estate is, at its heart, a people business. A special thanks to Sarah Tonkinson from Foxtons for supporting the wonderful dinner we had to round off the week. It’s these moments, whether over coffee, at networking events, or sharing stories in the rain, that make MIPIM such a valuable experience every year.
Looking ahead
MIPIM 2025 reminded us of the challenges ahead but also highlighted the opportunities. Our office is already conversing about the themes highlighted above, new perspectives, and stronger relationships. It will be interesting to see how they will shape what we think about the property industry in the months to come.
A huge thank you to everyone who took the time to connect with us.