Mapic immune to economic crisis in Cannes

By

Jean-Paul Leroy

Published
Nov 24, 2014

A success. That’s what Mapic’ director Nathalie Depetro said about the twentieth edition of the commercial real estate event, which ended in Cannes on Friday.

For Depetro, as well as for the numerous professionals that we interviewed—whether developers, retailers or real estate agents, Mapic has continued and even improved in terms of its level of professionalism, if that is indeed possible. All one needed to do was listen to the discussions at the stands and watch the meetings to get an idea of the seriousness of the event.

Of course, some will argue that, from the developers’ point of view, projects continue to abound in a world that has nevertheless changed a great deal due to the crisis. As one developer from a large distribution company said, “If you listen to developers, it seems as if nothing has changed."

Mapic appears to be immune to the economic crisis as it continues to build momentum. But this probably has a great deal to do with its internationalization. 

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About 75 countries were represented, including 2,400 retailers. "For example,” said Mapic’s director, “170 American companies were present, including retailers and developers, translating into a 40% increase in US participation." 

No wonder Mapic has chosen the United States as a country of honor for 2015! 

French participants were still the most numerous, followed by Italians, Russians and the English. 

While Mapic’s director has noted a rise in food concepts and leisure projects, for example, she stresses that the fashion sector continues to lead, "not least because the sector exports more easily." She also noted a rise in the digitalization of outlets and centers that, she emphasized, justify the Digital Summit that has been held the past several years the day before the exhibition’s opening day. 

It was also, of course, the event’s anniversary. A highlight was certainly the fireworks following the Mapic Awards dinner, not to mention the stars placed on the ground throughout the Palais des Festivals. A nod to Hollywood, the stars featured the names of those who participated in MAPIC 20 years ago!