27 March 2025
Just a few weeks ago, the global real estate industry gathered in Cannes for its most anticipated event of the year: MIPIM 2025 – and it did not disappoint. Despite the storm clouds overhead, the conference made one thing clear: the industry is undergoing a transformation.
Let’s look at the key takeaways from our five team members who attended.
Investors are increasingly focused on logistics and residential projects, reflecting changing market demands. Gone are the days of skyscrapers and office buildings. Stakeholders also know we need sustainable and community-driven real estate. The industry recognises that the social value of real estate is crucial to long-term financial returns, with cities embracing regeneration projects to foster vibrant, resilient communities.
While sustainability has long been a talking point, MIPIM 2025 proved that investors now demand tangible, financially viable sustainability measures. Simply put, sustainability initiatives must offer a return on investment. Services like natural hazard analyses, subscription-based certifications, and net-zero carbon audits have therefore become essential for clients aiming to increase asset value through sustainability credentials.
This year, geopolitical factors were impossible to ignore. With Trump’s policies once again a topic of heated discussion, some have taken to saying that the ‘G’ in ESG now stands for ‘Geopolitics.’ Clearly, regional instability, regulatory fragmentation, and shifting policies remain a challenge. However, optimism was in the air as well—many participants were happy to see Sadiq Khan present—indicating that there is hope for more investment into the London property market.
Looking back on the event, what services do our clients need most? As always, certifications are at the top of the list. As a leading BREEAM provider, Longevity is committed to supporting clients—whether they need new certifications or strategic advice to improve scores.
Clients are more and more aware of our changing climate and the need for climate-resilient buildings. With extreme weather events such as the recent floods in Spain and hurricanes in the U.S., climate adaptation is now a necessity. The focus has shifted from climate risk assessment to real adaptation strategies. Investors no longer want to simply tick a box—they demand action plans that lead to net-zero outcomes. This is where Longevity’s sustainable design team plays a crucial role in helping clients future-proof their assets.
Regulatory shifts were another key theme—no doubt Trump’s volatile attacks on the EPA and the EU’s changing regulations were a catalyst for these conversations. Simplified regulations are, of course, a welcome change, but stakeholders still need assistance to wrap their heads around them. In response, Longevity is launching a new policy and regulations platform to help clients navigate these changes with confidence.
MIPIM 2025 once again confirmed that real estate professionals are aware they need to go beyond surface-level sustainability efforts. The industry is demanding clear, actionable strategies to create truly resilient and future-proof buildings. As the market evolves, Longevity remains at the forefront, providing the insights and solutions clients need to succeed in this new era of real estate.
If you’re looking to enhance the sustainability and resilience of your assets, reach out to our team at: info@longevity.co.uk.