MAPIC 2023 Day 1: The Industry proves hands-on attitude

The overarching theme for this year’s MAPIC is “The Age of Responsible Growth,” a timely focus given the increasing emphasis on sustainability and ethical practices in the retail, leisure, and hospitality sectors. This theme is not just a tagline but a commitment, as evidenced by the event’s new dedicated area for energy efficiency and innovation. MAPIC 2023 looks at how the industry can ensure continued and sustainable growth by implementing measures that reduce the impact on the environment and put people and the planet at the center. The focus is on the question of what role the retail sector will play in a modern city in the future. Exhibitors are focusing on innovative projects from the mixed-use and revitalization sectors.

MAPIC 2023 is slightly smaller than last year. Around 200 companies exhibited and about 6000 visitors came to Cannes. However, despite the global challenges, the mood is positive and clearly forward-looking. The tasks for the retail real estate industry are clear, and concrete, and often joint implementation is being discussed. The opening already showed: For stakeholders across various sectors— be it retail property, leisure, food, or tech — MAPIC serves as an important global stage. 

Impressions from Day 1

Cindy Andersen, Managing Director, INGKA CENTRES Joanna Fisher, CEO, ECE Alison Rehill-Erguven, CEO, CENOMI CENTER discussed in their opening session the role of landlords in driving an agenda for change. The speakers focus on their role in the further development of the properties and the responsibility for the local community, retailers and future consumers.

In addition to the main program, several invitation-only networking summits are being held, including the Outlet Summit, and the “Retail in the City” summit, which focus on how cities can reinvent themselves to remain attractive to retailers.