Planning your 2026 MIPIM experience: our top tips and events to consider

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The key to a successful MIPIM is planning ahead and organising your time around what will add the most value for you and your business. Here, we share are our top picks for making the most of your 2026 MIPIM experience, including the networking opportunities and events to consider.

Data Centres and AI: Bringing tech and property together

One of the defining themes for MIPIM 2026 is the growing relationship between real estate and AI technology. The Data Centres Summit, with details found in the MIPIM sessions directory, is a must to explore the designing, building, and financing of AI-ready Infrastructure.

UK Hub: Discover opportunity across a breadth of regions

The UK Hub at MIPIM remains an important staple of the event, offering a chance to explore where the latest UK opportunity is emerging, highlighting the best that all regions have to offer. We always value the UK Hub as a natural meeting point for building on new and existing relationships, and hearing first-hand about the projects and priorities shaping growth across the country.

Global insights: widen your pool

MIPIM delegates attend from across the globe, for all attendees this holds a plethora of advantages. From learning and ideas sharing, to forging international partnerships and business opportunities. It’s this worldwide audience that makes MIPIM such a unique platform for widening your network and your outlook. Take the time to attend talks and events that step outside of what you’d normally gravitate towards and bring back insights that could help inform a fresh way of thinking.

Networking with a twist

Sometimes the best conversations happen when you’re out of the traditional conference setting.

MIPIM 2026 has a host of sporting and wellness activities to explore, including runs, swims and yoga. Get involved and see for yourself why networking works so well when combined with fresh air and fun.

Carving out time for planned meetings

With such a busy schedule, it’s easy to spend the week moving from event to event. One of the most important parts of your MIPIM planning is protecting time for your pre-booked meetings, while leaving enough time to explore the extensive programme and chance encounters. Leave enough buffer time between things so that you have enough flexibility and don’t feel rushed across the event.

Holistic at MIPIM 2026

Holistic Group will be at MIPIM 2026. We have been working with businesses across real estate for over 20 years, with proven results. If you are seeking to sustain and achieve growth, break into new markets, win bigger and better projects, attract talent, build profile and enhance brand awareness, now is the time to get in touch.

Please get in touch with Sophie Eastwood (Sophie@holisticgroup.co.uk) to arrange a meeting in Cannes. We look forward to meeting you there!

Packing for MIPIM: everything you need

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Packing for MIPIM isn’t just about the essentials; it’s about setting yourself up for success (and comfort) while navigating the main event. Trust us when we say you’ll rely more on your packing skills than you might expect, especially when you find yourself in a pinch between meetings or events.

For experienced MIPIM delegates, you’ve probably learned from past experiences that it’s a hectic, jam-packed event where you’ll rack up your steps!

So, let our MIPIM packing guide be your guide. Double-check your bag against our list of essentials before you jet off to Cannes. It’ll save you from those last-minute high street scrambles and unexpected expenses. Plus, it leaves more time for the important stuff – like perfecting your elevator pitch or scoping out the best networking spots.

Success isn’t just about who you know and what you do; it’s also about what you packed in your suitcase.

Your schedule

By now, your schedule will be full, so don’t forget it. Having a copy saved on all your devices and accessible without needing to rely on an internet connection is a sensible move. Print it out if this works better for you, but make sure to have a few copies in case you misplace one. For the super organised, spend some time before you arrive diarising your schedule on a digital calendar, with alert reminders set so that you’ll always be covered. Make sure the time difference is reflected!

Business cards (physical or on App) or QR codes

Making connections and doing business is the primary goal at MIPIM, so having an ample supply of cards if you use them, or an easy accessible card app or QR code is highly recommended. Have them on the plane too – you never know who you might meet and when you’ll need them. You will meet a lot of people so make notes on the back of business cards or use notes on your phone to summarise conversations and next actions.

Chargers and adaptors

Having all your electronics, including mobile phone and laptop, goes without saying, but don’t forget your chargers and adaptors for them too. Having a portable battery pack with you will also be a huge help if you are networking and want the convenience of not being attached to a stationary power outlet. A small notepad and pen are also worth packing as it won’t always be convenient to use your devices so this will ensure you are covered.

Comfortable shoes

This is a packing tip we will never tire of sharing. The wrong shoes will lead to a miserable time, so please prioritise your comfort and plan to wear shoes that will keep you on your feet (and not off them!). You won’t be out of place in smart trainers, we promise.

Dressing for all weather

While we hope that the sun will shine, be ready for rain with a handy umbrella / raincoat and pack layers to keep you warm when there is a brisk coastal breeze. It can get cold at night! Sunglasses are also always in our MIPIM bag of essentials.

Shoulder bag, backpack or briefcase

Having a shoulder bag, backpack or even a briefcase with a crossbody strap is a good idea so that you can store business cards, MIPIM freebies, your phone, water bottle and other bits. Why a shoulder or crossbody option – so you free to shake hands of course!

Emergency health kit

Pack a small kit of healthcare essentials such as a basic first aid kit, sunscreen, medicine and plasters. Remember to also stay hydrated and make time for rest. The days and some nights will be long, so take care of yourself.

Remember to follow Holistic and Holistic Insight for more MIPIM updates, and we look forward to seeing you there. Salut!

MIPIM 2026 is almost here!

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The countdown to MIPIM is on. Taking place from 10-13 March, once again the great and the good of the real estate world will meet in Cannes to network, do business, and solve the challenges facing the sector.

We at Holistic created this dedicated website having clocked up over 25 MIPIMs, to give others the benefit of our expertise.

If you’re attending for the first time, this dedicated site is where you can find all the tips you need.

Have a brilliant MIPIM!

MIPIM 2025: Holistic’s key takeaways

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Read about our MIPIM 2025 experience, including conference highlights, key themes, standout networking opportunities, and our final thoughts.

MIPIM 2025

Come rain or shine…

While MIPIM is typically blessed with sunny French Riviera weather, this year’s conditions were more challenging, with the rain playing a significant role in shaping the conference experience. However, rather than hindering engagement, the weather inadvertently contributed to a more focused and immersive atmosphere. The temptation to ‘event hop’ was perhaps reduced as attendees spent more time in one place, leading to more in-depth, fruitful conversations.

Some of the prevalent themes shaping discussions across panels, talks and networking this year included:

  • Positive market opportunities: Discussions highlighted positive growth prospects in real estate, with particular focus on emerging markets and sustainable developments.
  • ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance): The shift toward ESG-driven investment and development strategies was a major topic, with conversations revolving around how companies can integrate these principles effectively.
  • Placemaking and community: The role of the built environment in shaping communities was a key discussion, with emphasis on actionable strategies.
  • Impact of Artificial Intelligence on real estate Sessions delved into how AI is transforming the real estate sector, from property management to investment strategies – encouraging interesting discussion on the integration of AI and tech in the sector.

Networking at MIPIM 2025

A shift toward more experiential, activity-based networking was evident, offering attendees unique ways to connect beyond traditional sessions. From group yoga sessions to morning runs, these events encouraged a different kind of engagement and relationship-building in a more relaxed environment.

Conference Highlights

MIPIM 2025 hosted numerous networking events, workshops, and panels. These gatherings provided attendees with opportunities to connect, share insights, and explore new business opportunities.

The presence of several UK city leaders including mayors such as London Mayor Sadiq Khan was a definite highlight and reinforced MIPIM’s pull to attract influential leaders and public figures to the conference.

The increasing commitment to gender diversity being taken by MIPIM was also evident with a more balanced approach to panel representation and a greater representation of women at the event.

Final Thoughts

While the weather may have dampened Cannes, it did little to diminish the value of MIPIM 2025. The overall sentiment remained one of optimism, highlighting the industry’s resilience and readiness for the challenges and opportunities ahead.

Thank you for following our #MaximisingMIPIM updates this year, and we look forward to MIPIM 2026!

Keep up to date with all things Holistic by following us on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/holistic-communications/

Maximising MIPIM: our highlights

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The curtains have closed on 2024’s largest global real estate meeting of the year, so let’s look back at what made this MIPIM stand out – from stellar events, to making valuable connections, and how we’ll be taking the spirit of the ‘going beyond’ theme throughout the rest of the year. 

Firstly, we hope that you had a really productive week and managed to make the most of meeting new and existing contacts. This year’s programme did not disappoint, and the quality of networking sessions provided so many opportunities to meet new and familiar faces. The creative ways in which people and businesses from across the built environment came together was also a firm highlight – from cycling and morning yoga to running groups and sea swimming – health and wellness were firmly on the agenda. 

MIPIM also fulfilled its purpose as a platform for learning by bringing attention to crucial topics such as sustainability, diversity, and skills. Discussions prompted challenging conversations about how the industry can meet targets and generate user-friendly and profitable outcomes, all while maintaining a social conscience. One highlight was the keynote address by Sanna Marin. The auditorium was bursting with attendees on a sunny day, keen to hear Sanna’s balanced and insightful perspectives, which encompassed climate issues, geopolitics, equality, and leadership. 

Our conversations at MIPIM also told a positive story of optimism in real estate, with the common theme being one of coming out the other side of a turbulent few years for the market. We also continue to notice the need for affirmative ESG action. From a futureproofing perspective, the need to attract and retain talent remains key. These conversations also served to highlight how relationships are more important than ever. Delving deeper and understanding how customers, stakeholders, employees (and even future recruits) perceive your business is the key to taking the relevant action needed to underpin successful marketing and communications strategies.     

Finally, thank you for following us on the journey to MIPIM 2024. We’ve left feeling fresh, inspired, and ready to support our clients in reaching their business goals through the power of communications, research and engagement.  

We are now marking our calendar for next year’s event, taking place 10 to 14 March 2025 – are you? Follow Holistic and Holistic Insight for more news and insights from across the built environment. 

Insights and expectations: Nicola’s MIPIM journey  

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Nicola Hanser, Associate Director at Holistic, offers a unique perspective at this year’s MIPIM. From organising our popular Go Dutch dinner to representing Holistic Insight, her journey is one that embodies collaboration and professional growth.

In our latest blog, Nicola shares her MIPIM experience and what she’s looking forward to learning at this year’s event.

How long have you been attending MIPIM?

I’ve been attending MIPIM for several years now, initially to organise our Go Dutch dinner, which we held on Monday nights to kick off the conference. It was our opportunity to bring together over 100 people from our network for a relaxed evening of dinner, drinks, and networking.

This year’s a bit different as I’ll be there as a delegate from Holistic Insight, our engagement consultancy. Since we launched a few years ago, we’ve been going from strength to strength, helping businesses in the real estate sector navigate crucial phases of growth or change. I’m excited to be more hands-on this time around!

What are you most interested in about the programme this year?

I’m really looking forward to the opening keynote by Sanna Marin, the Former Prime Minister & Head of Government of Finland. It’s incredible to see the impact she’s made at such a young age, with progressive reforms like ambitious climate laws and improvements in healthcare and education. I’m especially keen to hear her insights on the challenges facing the real estate sector. As someone deeply involved in employee feedback and engagement work, I’m also excited to explore emerging trends in the workplace and how that’s impacting employee attitudes.

What are you most looking forward to?

Personally, I’m excited about the opportunity to meet and learn more about the key issues driving businesses in our industry. Engaging with industry leaders and gaining insights that can inform our consultancy’s work is always a highlight for me when I attend MIPIM.

Your number one tip for maximising MIPIM?

My number one tip is to come prepared. Booking meetings in advance, factoring in potential overruns, and planning travel time between meetings can make a huge difference in ensuring a smooth experience at MIPIM. And of course, comfortable shoes and staying hydrated are a must!

Make sure to connect with Nicola on LinkedIn and for more updates on what to expect and how to prepare for MIPIM 2024, follow Holistic.

Get the scoop on MIPIM with Sophie Eastwood

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Delve deep into the world of MIPIM with Sophie Eastwood, Managing Director of Holistic, who shares her top tips on how to make the most of this year’s highly anticipated premier real estate event.

Sophie shares her experiences and insights gained from over 20 years of attending MIPIM, highlighting the prominence of the event and its enduring mission to drive collaboration, partnership, and positive change across the built environment.

From discussing this year’s theme of ‘going beyond’ to sharing her passion for networking, Sophie provides invaluable tips for delegates gearing up for MIPIM 2024.

How long have you been attending MIPIM?

“I am an avid attendee and have been going to MIPIM for over 20 years. While the event has certainly changed a lot in that time, what remains the same is its mission to foster collaboration and make a positive difference across the built environment. “

What are you most interested in about the programme this year?

“The goal of MIPIM has increasingly focused on highlighting the positive impact that the built environment has. This year’s theme of ‘going beyond’ is particularly interesting as it promises to inspire conversations that tackle industry-wide issues and drive positive societal change. With each MIPIM experience, I leave with fresh perspectives, ideas, and newfound knowledge, and I am positive that this year will be no exception!”

What insights are you looking forward to sharing?

“MIPIM is a great opportunity to share with other delegates, and I’m keen to use my time there to engage with others about the power of connection through communications.

“Across the built environment, Holistic connects businesses to their target audiences, fostering meaningful connections that elevate profile, shape reputation, and improve understanding of stakeholder perceptions.

“I am passionate about networking and its power to create mutually beneficial opportunities, whether that is at MIPIM, or through my work as a board director of YEP, the industry’s leading cross-industry networking group for young people in the built environment in the UK.”

Your number one tip for maximising MIPIM?

“Don’t try and do too much. Although it is tempting to pack in as much as possible, leave some gaps for chance meetings. Oh, and wear sensible shoes!”

Anything else?

“For anyone going to MIPIM this year, enjoy! It is a key event in the property and real estate networking calendar for a very good reason. You will meet more people than you ever could in the city where you work. Grasp the opportunity and embrace it. You’ll meet potential clients, forge new relationships, and no doubt cement or create new friendships along the way.”

Make sure to connect with Sophie on LinkedIn and for more updates on what to expect and how to prepare for MIPIM 2024, follow Holistic.

Events at MIPIM: our top picks

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A packed schedule of events awaits at MIPIM, with everything from workshops and panels, through to keynotes and networking sessions. These events add so much value to your MIPIM experience, but with a lot on offer it is important to plan ahead and choose wisely. While spaces for pre-booked events are now typically limited or filled, there’s still plenty to discover.

Opening reception

Open to all delegates, this kick-off networking event is not to be missed. Not only is it a great way to celebrate the start of MIPIM 2024, it’s also a nice way of easing into the conference. You can arrange to meet contacts there, as well as approach and network more generally with other delegates.

Remember, the beauty of MIPIM is the shared desire to network with the best of the best across the built environment, so bring your business cards and be ready with your elevator pitch, as anything can happen! This year’s opening reception is on the evening of Tuesday 12 March at the prestigious Carlton Hotel.

Opening Keynote: Sanna Marin Former Prime Minister & Head of Government of Finland

Sanna Marin will open MIPIM 2024 in what is expected to be one of the stellar highlights of this year’s event. Under Marin’s exceptional leadership, Finland blazed a trail towards carbon neutrality, setting a blueprint for other countries. Marin has a wealth of geopolitics, strategic autonomy, climate change, and female leadership experience to share, and her insights will be invaluable for all MIPIM delegates. You will find Sanna Marin presenting on the Grand Auditorium Stage on Tuesday 12 March 15.10pm – 16.10pm.

Innovation in the Property Sector

Hosted on the London Stand, this session looks at innovation within the sector. Is MMC the answer to delivering homes at the speed London needs? Who are the innovators in the drive to net zero transition? And how will AI impact the sector 5, 10, 20 years from now? These are all exciting questions for the capital and this event will draw in connections from across London and beyond. Tuesday 12 March 14:00 – 14:45.

Bridging the Gap: From Commitment to Action in Achieving Net Zero

A shared challenge across property and real estate, this session aims to confront the stark contrast between the enthusiastic hype around net zero commitments and the sobering reality of implementation. This is a fantastic event choice to help gain valuable insight surrounding the sustainability challenges and solutions facing the built environment. This session takes place on the Road to Zero stage on Tuesday 12 March 14.10pm – 15.10pm.

These are just a few of the key events worth considering for your MIPIM 2024 agenda with plenty more to discover in the schedule. Remember to plan your time effectively by aligning events with your interests as every event presents an opportunity to network, foster connections, and spark a conversation.

Follow Holistic for more updates and to keep abreast of what to expect and how to prepare in the lead up to MIPIM 2024.

Making connections

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MIPIM is one of the largest and most important property and real estate events of the year, anticipated to bring together 25,000+ delegates from across the globe all with a shared goal of forging new connections. This mutual desire to network at such a scale is what makes the event so special, but the time before you set foot in Cannes is equally as crucial.  

Create a plan and maximise it  

Create a comprehensive plan outlining your goals and the actions you can take to accomplish them now and during MIPIM. Leverage the event to its full potential by identifying who you want to engage with and by pinpointing relevant events to attend for growing your network or rekindling connections. Once your plan is in place, stick to it while allowing some flexibility for ad-hoc meetings and downtime. This approach saves time while you are out there and focuses your efforts – a win, win!  

Lock in meeting opportunities early  

You should now have a strong idea of who you want to meet while you’re at MIPIM and it’s now prime time to start making those connections. The delegate list is a useful place to start, as well as researching your own contacts and their networks to make more personal introductions. This is a great way to broach the subject of meeting at MIPIM, or even to organise a prospective chat before. 

Get noticed and gain valuable face time with other attendees  

Going to networking events for those heading to MIPIM is another way to make and build on new business relationships before flying out. The annual ‘Yes Oui Cannes’ event lays the foundation for potential collaborations prior to MIPIM. This year’s event will be held on Wednesday 6 March 2024 at Balls Brothers Minster Court, London. 

Avoid missing out on useful events or double booking 

MIPIM 2024 will feature a 20,000 m² exhibition space and hundreds of events, so it is well worth familiarising yourself with the map and planning what you’ll be doing in advance. This will allow you to seamlessly book in any potential meetings with new business prospects around the key events you know you will be attending.  

Create opportunities to gain more leads via socials 

Letting your connections know you will be at MIPIM is a must, but make sure to keep it up. Continue to raise awareness about the fact you will be attending MIPIM and share any news surrounding what you will be doing in the lead up to your visit. 

MIPIM is all about knowledge sharing and useful insights, so keep your audience informed. Ideas for content include exploring this year’s MIPIM 2024 theme of ‘going beyond’. How can your business or services contribute to solving challenges in real estate, while achieving user-centric and profitable outcomes? Understanding your take on sustainability, diversity, skills and more could spark a conversation now or lead to a meeting at MIPIM.  

Follow Holistic for more updates and to keep abreast of what to expect and how to prepare in the lead up to MIPIM 2024. 

Continue to look back here for more MIPIM help and advice, including interviews with the team about how to maximise MIPIM, our pick of the best MIPIM 2024 events and conferences for your calendar, packing tips and more. 

Are you ready for MIPIM 2024?

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MIPIM is just around the corner, promising to bring together the most influential players from across the built environment for another year of networking, collaboration, and innovation.

This year’s theme, ‘going beyond’, couldn’t be more fitting and highlights the increasing importance for real estate to demonstrate its value to investors, users, and society at large. Whether it’s through sustainability initiatives, a user-centric approach, or promoting diversity, MIPIM is all about showcasing how the industry is pushing boundaries and making a positive impact.

We can’t wait to reconnect with familiar faces and forge new connections in Cannes. If you’re also attending MIPIM next month and would like to meet up, please get in touch with us mipim@holisticgroup.co.uk.

But MIPIM isn’t just about networking; it’s about achieving your business goals. Whether you’re looking to raise your strategic profile, plan effective campaigns, or communicate your vision to your target audience, we’re here to help.

To make the most out of your MIPIM experience, keep visiting our blog for valuable tips and insights leading up to the event so you can hit the ground running and maximise your time in Cannes.

We can’t wait to see you there! ✨🌏