Coronavirus forces cancellation of MIPIM 2020
International property conference MIPIM has effectively been cancelled for 2020 after organisers confirmed it would be not be taking place on its rescheduled June date.
The annual event should have happened two weeks ago in Cannes, France, but was postponed as coronavirus began to disrupt travel and mass gatherings in Europe.
It was rearranged for June 2-5 but that too has proven to be too problematic to remain committed to.
The three-day festival will be replaced by a two-day gathering of real estate and technology leaders in Paris in September. Alongside this organisers are promising an online experience, MIPIM Connect.
It has confirmed plans to hold MIPIM next year in its usual time and place – Cannes on March 16-19, 2021.
The announcement comes as Europe is dealing with the global Covid-19 pandemic. The events industry is one of the worst affected by the economic consequences of the health crisis.
Filippo Rean, real estate division director at MIPIM organiser Reed MIDEM, said, “The situation surrounding COVID-19 is changing daily and government measures are becoming increasingly restrictive.
“It is clear that holding a large MIPIM tradeshow in Cannes in June is not feasible given the rapid spread, devastating impact and uncertain evolution of the virus.
“As it is not possible to organize a traditional MIPIM by the end of this year, we are planning a different form of gathering for clients in the autumn in Paris, plus a digital experience, MIPIM Connect.”
There is usually a large British element to MIPIM’s global property audience. Agents, developers and other property professionals go alongside delegations that are typically led by cities and city regions which are seeking investors and partners for its largest and most ambitious schemes.
