The View from Cannes: 6 Observations from MIPIM 2026
Andrew Paulson in Cannes
Earlier this month, LA London Managing Partner Andrew Paulson travelled to Cannes during MIPIM week, the global urban property summit. Instead of flying to the event, he enjoyed a scenic train journey by Eurostar and TGV – reducing his carbon footprint by up to 95%.
A full programme of meetings and informal gatherings made for a busy and productive few days in the south of France. It was particularly rewarding to catch up with a number of LA London’s valued peers and collaborators at the many lively breakfasts, lunches and dinners that took place outside of the official MIPIM programme, including our own.
Here are Andrew’s reflections from Cannes 2026:
1. The UK remains attractive
It was generally agreed that London remains one of the most desirable places globally to invest in, and deliver, complex property projects. Despite recent political volatility and economic uncertainty, Cannes attendees reported plenty of activity in the prime London market for well-structured, well-advised projects.
And even against a backdrop of caution, there was a consensus that the UK – and London in particular – remains home to many of the best designers, consultants, contractors and advisers in the world. There was also some speculation that geopolitical instability in the Middle East may redirect investment towards the UK, although this is not yet evidenced by committed projects.
Morning in Cannes during MIPIM week
2. Regulation continues to frustrate
Prime London’s attractiveness is increasingly tempered by frustration, however; the development environment is becoming more difficult, with overlapping economic, planning, and regulatory risks frequently causing projects to stall.
In particular, the Building Safety Act continues to have a significant impact on project schedules and budgets, undermining the appetite for development.
3. Caution prevails
Late-2025 uncertainty around the UK budget has been compounded by recent geopolitical instability. Many clients and investors are continuing to adopt a mindset of “wait, assess, then act”, with clear evidence of delayed decision-making.
This is not universal, but it is material: projects are being scrutinised more closely, timelines are stretching, and commitments are taking longer to secure.
4. Government policy is causing concern
Many MIPIM attendees were concerned that the UK government has not taken sufficiently bold steps to stimulate the market, with current policy contributing to a sense of inertia.
The prevailing view was that decisive government interventions, like reforming stamp duty, could help to unlock activity across the market.
5. Supplier pipelines are under pressure
There was a noticeable rise in attendance from Prime London contractors and suppliers in Cannes this year. This appears to reflect both concern around future workload and a growing fear of missing out as competition for fewer, higher-quality opportunities intensifies.
Lunchtime in Cannes
6. Quality and delivery are key differentiators
Over the next few years, the teams that will succeed will be those that adapt quickly to changing conditions, innovate where necessary, and consistently deliver a level of service that sets them apart in an increasingly selective market.
At a time of both economic uncertainty and political instability, clients are increasingly seeking experienced industry leaders like LA London who can deliver complex, high-value projects from start to finish, maintaining design integrity while navigating regulatory challenges. Our rigorous processes and uncompromising standards – supported by integrated digital surveying through LA Surveys – stand us in good stead to succeed in this environment.
