MAPIC 2026: Where deal-making meets destination transformation

It’s hardly news that the retail real estate landscape has undergone seismic shifts over the past few years, fundamentally altering how we approach commercial property development, investment and management.

Our 30th anniversary event in 2025 marked a pivotal moment for MAPIC. We successfully redefined our offer, introducing a refreshed format that proved successful in addressing the evolving needs of retail real estate professionals. The subsequent feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with attendees praising the enhanced focus on productive networking and actionable insights. More importantly, the tangible results spoke volumes, with reports of a significant increase in deal flow and partnership formations emerging directly from connections made during the event.

Against this backdrop, we are excited to return in 2026 following the same proven formula, while expanding elements that received the strongest market feedback. Our two-day format on 3-4 November will again provide the largest international marketing platform for retail property decision-makers, while our new networking area will be significantly expanded to meet growing demand.

In an international environment where development activity is, for the most part, decreasing or decelerating, the key challenge for retail real estate players lies in marketing existing spaces in redevelopments and extensions. This shift from new development to optimisation and repositioning requires a different set of skills and connections – precisely what MAPIC’s enhanced format delivers.

Our platform has also naturally evolved into a forum where industry leaders debate and shape the future direction of retail spaces. Questions that seemed theoretical just a few years ago are now urgent business imperatives: How do we create mixed-use destinations that serve communities beyond shopping? What role does technology play in enhancing physical retail experiences? How can we design spaces that are resilient to changing consumer behaviours while remaining commercially viable?

These discussions are yielding practical solutions. We’re seeing innovative approaches to repurposing traditional retail spaces, from incorporating healthcare and education services to creating community hubs that blend retail with co-working and entertainment. The conversation has shifted from merely surviving the retail apocalypse to actively building the next generation of commercial destinations.

With more than a third of all participants representing brands, MAPIC serves as a key driver in influencing global site selection. Our platform acts as an essential conduit, facilitating negotiations for new locations, relocations, and expansion of retailers’ store networks. This year, we aim to gather 1,800 brand representatives from around the world, seeking expansion opportunities in major European and international markets.

Recognising that investor sentiment towards retail has turned a corner, MAPIC 2026 will spotlight opportunities within specific sub-sectors that show the greatest promise. Our new ‘high street zone’ will be installed at the heart of the exhibition area, connecting city representatives, agents specialising in high street retail and brands. A dedicated stage will showcase opportunities and available sites in European cities during pitch sessions, while exclusive networking tables facilitate targeted meetings in a premium environment.

We’re also launching our new Retail Park Summit, a closed-door forum bringing together investor professionals and brands specialising in retail parks. This addition reflects the growing recognition that different asset classes require specialised approaches and dedicated networking opportunities.

What excites me most about MAPIC’s current trajectory is how we’re balancing immediate business needs with long-term industry transformation.

Our enhanced format addresses these market developments while highlighting their impact on different asset categories, helping all market players adapt to changes and promote sustainable growth. This isn’t just about conducting business as usual – we’re actively facilitating the evolution of retail real estate.