Postcard from Cannes: Reflections on Mipim 2025

Attending MIPIM is always an intense experience, but this year was particularly so. Having recently joined Barr Gazetas, my decision to go was a last-minute one, which meant a short, packed trip rather than the usual four or five days. That only heightened the intensity, but also the impact.

For anyone in the industry who hasn’t been, MIPIM is worth attending at least once – if nothing else, for the experience. There is nowhere better to see the full interconnection of the built environment sector in action.

I’ve always pictured it as a kind of marine food chain, where every part of the industry – investors, developers, lawyers, architects, consultants, recruiters – plays a role, from the biggest fish to the smallest minnows. That’s my romanticised impression, anyway. But MIPIM is about much more than that.

It covers everything from government initiatives showcasing how the UK, its regions, and its cities are working to attract investment, through to the full spectrum of built environment professionals – investors, developers, lawyers, architects, consultants, recruiters, and everyone in between. 

The global scope of MIPIM is also incredible, offering a snapshot of the construction industry on a worldwide scale. It’s fascinating to see this network in action. It’s a reminder not just of where we fit, but also of how we might need to reach beyond our usual networks and collaborators.

More than anything, MIPIM is a place for conversations. Everyone is there to talk, to share ideas, to explain what they are trying to achieve. There’s an openness to the discussions that isn’t always present elsewhere.

While the event is often criticised  – particularly for not always being the friendliest place for women – I’ve always found that some of the best and most interesting people in the industry are gathered there.

And, of course, there’s the setting. Being in the south of France for a few days, however decadent it might seem, gives MIPIM its own unique atmosphere. This year, though, the weather had other ideas.

It rained so much that any hopes of enjoying the outdoors were quickly washed away – perhaps, as some joked, a curse sent by UKREiiF’s organising committee! Even so, the event remains a fascinating experience, not least because of the strange and wonderful places around Cannes where attendees end up staying (my sketch, attached, provides some evidence).

For me, this year’s trip was particularly different. Starting at a new practice meant bringing together contacts from different sectors, bridging what can sometimes feel like two separate worlds – commercial and residential. It also meant a lot of introductions, a lot of human stitching to connect people who wouldn’t otherwise meet.

That, ultimately, is what makes MIPIM such a valuable tool – a place where, in the space of a few days, the conversations you need to have can happen all at once.

Now, heading back to London via a weekend stop in Lyon to visit my son on his university exchange, I can confirm: it’s been a whirlwind. But, as always, a trip worth making.

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