MIPIM 2025: Market sentiment, planning challenges, and the power of networking

The SEC Newgate UK team is on the ground at MIPIM in Cannes, navigating unpredictable weather as sunshine and torrential rain take turns dominating the Riviera. While the downpours have sent café-goers scrambling for cover, much like the property industry itself, people are adapting and pressing ahead with business as usual.

Despite ongoing economic and geopolitical uncertainty, the atmosphere at MIPIM is largely positive. After a challenging few years in the markets, many industry players are looking ahead with cautious optimism. Conversations are inevitably turning to the global landscape—including the potential return of a certain US president- as well as the latest UK planning and infrastructure announcements.

Closer to home, skepticism surrounds the UK government’s 1.5 million homes target, with concerns over labour shortages and regulatory hurdles. Meanwhile, proposed changes to employment rights are raising fresh challenges for the construction sector. Yet, discussions remain focused on investment, development, and innovation, with businesses keen to shape their strategies for the future.

SEC Newgate UK is actively engaging with pan-European investors, developers, data and tech firms, industry bodies, and contractors to help businesses strengthen their reputations and position themselves for long-term success. Compared to some recent industry events, there is a marked shift in sentiment, with many attendees putting concrete plans in place for growth.

For first-time attendees, MIPIM offers a unique networking experience. Unlike the highly structured, meeting-heavy format of EXPO REAL in Germany, MIPIM thrives on spontaneous connections- whether over coffee, a casual conversation, or a chance encounter that leads to a deal. While it may take some getting used to, the energy and accessibility of the event make it a dynamic space for meaningful discussions.

As we continue through MIPIM, one thing is clear: the industry is here to talk, collaborate, and drive progress- rain or shine.