Karen’s trip to Cannes: MIPIM 2026 reflections

This year was my first time back in Cannes since before the pandemic, and I was curious to see how the event had evolved in that time. It was busier, broader, and if the sunshine counts for anything, brighter than ever.

Cautious optimism was the sentiment I encountered across the week. There is genuine appetite in the market, but conversations were grounded. People were candid about the uncertainties they’re navigating, not least the ongoing situation in the Middle East, which weighed on many of the discussions. That honesty, I think, is a sign of a sector that’s thinking carefully about what comes next.

What struck me was how much value there still lies in the conversations MIPIM enables. Despite the glamour and anticipation of the event, there are still real, substantive exchanges to be had between clients, advisors, investors and developers, which I was consistently reminded of throughout my trip.

More than anything, MIPIM gave me perspective. Being back in that environment brought to the surface the breadth of relationships I have across the property world, and how much commonality of purpose exists across the sector.

It also reinforced something that I’m trying to do more of: it’s always worth making the ask. I’ve come away with some hopeful opportunities for the firm because of this, which I am looking to follow up once we have all caught up on our work.

Sport and wellness have also become a much more visible part of the experience. The cyclists arriving on day one has always been a memorable moment, but now swimming and wellbeing walks, including those led by Women in Property, are woven into the programme too.

Monday has become a conference day in its own right. The seafront venues were already buzzing on the first evening, with most delegates arriving earlier than I remembered from previous years. Tuesday, traditionally the real start of proceedings, felt busier still as a result.

I ended the week on a high with UTB and James Andrew International hosting their 30th MIPIM party at the Majestic – a real achievement for them. Huge thanks also to dMFK for a wonderful Thursday dinner, Rise4 for Tuesday lunch, Hollis for a brilliant rooftop party, and to my friends at Gatehouse Chambers for, as ever, their superb drinks venue selection.

Now more than a week on, I’m still buoyed by the experience and the boost it gave me. MIPIM 2026 was invaluable in recharging and reconnecting me to the industry – and I will definitely be back for more of the same. Face to face wins every time.