East Midlands teams cast doubt on MIPIM after coronavirus crisis
MIPIM, the commercial property show held annually in Cannes, is in doubt with many big private firms pulling out of attending due to the developing coronavirus crisis.
Knight Frank and Cushman & Wakefield are among the names to stay at home – and East Midlands teams are also thinking twice about attending.
Some, such as Team Derby, have asked that the event be postponed altogether. John Forkin, managing director of Marketing Derby, said: “MIPIM is an important part of our strategy to raise the profile of Derby and Derbyshire and has been successful in attracting inward investment.
“The spread of coronavirus is leading to a review of our position for 2020 and we are pressing urgently for MIPIM to be postponed until the autumn.
“At the same time, we are consulting with partners and will take a decision early next week which will be based on an assessment of risk and duty of care.’
Meanwhile, a spokesperson for Team Lincolnshire said: “Team Lincolnshire is aware of the developing situation regarding coronavirus and its effect on MIPIM 2020. We will continue to review the latest guidance from local, national and international authorities, as well as the World Health Organization and the event organiser.”
Team Leicester is a partnership of 23 Leicester and Leicestershire property businesses, local authorities and universities.
Managing director, Alister de Ternant said: “We are in constant contact with MIPIM organisers, Reed Midem who have stated that safety is a primary concern and at the current time, MIPIM is going ahead.
“We understand that the Mobile World Congress (MWC) mobile phone showcase in Barcelona was cancelled but that was because the majority of the exhibitors were from Asia and with so many cancelling, it wouldn’t be feasible to hold the event.
“Right now, major airports remain open and sports and entertainment events are still going on.
“Everyone is advised to be cautious and ensure they fully adhere to health and safety guidelines offered. We are being kept fully informed and if anything changes, our delegates will hear from us first.”
Lorraine Baggs, head of inward investment at Invest in Nottingham said: “Team Nottingham is closely monitoring the situation regarding MIPIM. The health and safety of our partners is paramount, and we will continue to follow the advice of the event organiser and international health organisations.”
MIPIM is due to be held from 9-13 March in the south of France.
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