It is now less than 5 weeks to go until it is that time again when the UK property industry converges on Cannes for MIPIM 2019, recognised as one of the premiere property events to attend. This will be the 30th anniversary of MIPIM.
This will be my fifth time attending MIPIM in Cannes and I thought I would share my thoughts and some tips I would recommend for any MIPIM newbies attending this year.
Is MIPIM worth attending?
Some critics view MIPIM as just an excuse to drink in the sun, and yes there is plenty of that, but it also can be a very productive week where deals can be done and new contacts made, as well as providing a good opportunity to catch up with existing contacts and former colleagues. It allows you to meet people in the property industry who you may not normally get the opportunity to meet back in the UK, whether it be due to differences in geography or simply being too busy in your day job.
There is of course a significant cost involved in paying for the flights and the hotel and spending money when at MIPIM which can add up, but as many people I met in the past at MIPIM have told me, it sometimes only takes one deal to be worth the expense.
There are also activities in MIPIM to cater for everyone, whether it be spending your time in the exhibition hall, meeting contacts for coffee or drinks at Café Roma, attending lavish yacht parties or events at the swanky hotels, or just enjoying the beach. In short, plenty of variety for those attending.
MIPIM tips
The following are 10 tips I have learnt from my previous trips to MIPIM:
- Book flights and hotel as early as possible as availability can reduce very quickly. I know some people who book for the next year as soon as they get back to the UK.
- Plan ahead what meetings and events you would like to attend, however do always leave some room in your diary to allow for any new contacts you might meet over there.
- Prepare for all types of weather. Although Cannes is famous for its sunshine, some years have been a washout with constant rain, so take both the sunscreen and an umbrella just in case.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you would be surprised the amount of time you spend walking up and down the Croissette to meetings and events.
- Brings lots of business cards and have plenty in reserve. One year I went through three boxes of business cards so you can never have enough.
- When you meet somebody make a note (perhaps on the back of your business card or on your phone) so you have a record of what you discussed and can effectively follow up when you are back in the UK as you will meet a lot of people at MIPIM.
- MIPIM requires stamina and longevity so don’t burn yourself out on the first day by being out until 4am in the morning.
- Be careful when you book your meetings. Tuesday and Wednesday are always good as everyone is fresh, but if you book a meeting on the Friday then there is a good chance it may be cancelled as for some it can prove to be a long week.
- Uber and buses can be useful to get around in Cannes without spending too much money.
- Beware that any lunches can go overtime. Although French restaurants may serve great food, this is a busy time of year and service can vary at restaurants.
We would also recommend attending any Pre-MIPIM events held in the UK in the lead up to MIPIM. This is a great way to get a head start on your networking!
Planning Clarity Legal at MIPIM
Our firm will be attending MIPIM from 12th to 15th March 2019. If you would like to meet or catch up over in Cannes then please get in contact.
Note: all comments and views expressed in this blog are merely opinions and provided for information purposes only and do not constitute legal advice which can be relied upon. Should you require legal advice on a matter then please contact us
