Talent, Timing & Too Many Umbrellas
As the dust (or rather, the rain) settles on MIPIM 2025, we've been speaking with attendees to gather first-hand insights on what made this year’s event a success. One of our clients, a leading interior design firm, shared their experience, reinforcing what we already know: MIPIM rewards those who arrive prepared.
Preparation = Productivity
For them, MIPIM was exceptionally productive, but only because they went in with a clear strategy. Their approach?
- A packed diary with pre-arranged meetings.
- Pre-booked venues and reservations.
- A focused goal: building relationships and securing clients.
And the results speak for themselves. They returned to the UK with multiple deals already agreed, proving that MIPIM isn’t just about networking, it’s about making things happen in real time.
In contrast, it was painfully obvious who hadn’t planned ahead. As our client put it:
"You can tell who came with a strategy and who didn’t - the lingerers at the pubs stood out for the wrong reasons."
Those who relied on chance encounters found themselves on the sidelines, watching the real deals unfold elsewhere.
The Talent Conversation Heats Up
One of the biggest themes at MIPIM this year? Talent.
It’s no secret that the real estate sector is grappling with a talent crisis. From developers and investors to property managers and designers, firms are struggling to attract and retain the right people in an increasingly competitive market. That’s why this year’s focus on HR professionals and talent acquisition was so significant.
MIPIM is evolving beyond just investment and development; it’s starting to acknowledge that the future of real estate depends on the people shaping it.
HR & Talent Professionals at MIPIM? A Game-Changer
MIPIM has traditionally been an event dominated by dealmakers; investors, developers, architects, and brokers. But as MIPIM’s Director, Nicolas Kozubek, highlighted this year, it’s time for HR professionals to be part of the conversation.
"I have been pushing my team to create a brand-new talent tent at MIPIM – we may do it next year – but it has to do with encouraging HR professionals to come to the show. They are not the usual participant, but I feel it is key we go in that direction."
At GKR, we couldn’t agree more. The best developments, transactions, and investments start with the right people. Without the right talent pipeline, the industry risks stagnation.
Beyond the Boardroom
Of course, MIPIM isn’t just about scheduled meetings and keynote speeches. The real magic often happens in the informal moments; whether it’s over coffee at the Carlton, an impromptu lunch at Caffé Roma, or a late-night drink on the Croisette.
Our client was lucky enough to be hosted at some of the best venues on the promenade, including exclusive yacht events, which proved once again that real estate is a people business. Deals might start in meeting rooms, but they are often sealed in the right setting.
A Cannes Washout
One thing no one was quite prepared for? The worst weather in a decade.
Rain, wind, and stormy conditions made for some challenging logistics (and a booming umbrella economy). While it didn’t dampen spirits, it did separate the prepared from the unprepared, with those who had meticulously planned their meetings making the most of every moment, and those relying on last-minute networking struggling to keep up.
MIPIM is What You Make of It
MIPIM isn’t just another conference, it’s an opportunity. But like all opportunities, it requires the right approach.
- Go in with a plan.
- Book your meetings in advance.
- Know where to be, and when.
For those who take this approach, MIPIM delivers real results. For those who don’t? Well, they leave with a handful of business cards, a few good stories, and some excellent bar tabs.
If you’re thinking about next year’s event, start planning now. We’re excited to see how the conversation around talent evolves.
