- Published date:
- 21 August 2026
Real Estate:UK’s first Annual Conference brings the sector together to navigate uncertainty and explore opportunity
Against a backdrop of political change, global uncertainty and rapid technological advancement, our first Annual Conference brought together leaders from across real estate to consider what these developments mean for businesses, investors and the places we create.
From geopolitics and economics to AI, cyber resilience and investment, one message ran throughout the day: while uncertainty is becoming increasingly familiar, significant opportunities remain for those prepared to adapt.
The conference also marked another milestone for Real Estate:UK as we continue to unite the strengths of our three predecessor organisations under one voice.
Investing in the next generation
Before the main programme, members of our RE:Futures network joined an exclusive breakfast session facilitated by Anna O’Kennedy, exploring how to communicate confidently, build professional relationships and make the most of networking opportunities.
RE:Futures Chair and SEGRO Director Jo Jackson later introduced the network to the wider audience. Now supporting more than 3,000 members through mentoring, events and networking, it continues to grow as a community for early careers professionals and future leaders.
Why cyber resilience belongs in the boardroom
Dr Ed Braund and Chamitha De Alwis from the University of Bedfordshire, in collaboration with Switchshop, placed attendees at the centre of a fictional cyber incident unfolding across three interactive sessions.
From deepfakes and fraudulent payment requests to phishing emails and data breaches, the challenge demonstrated how quickly isolated incidents can escalate. The message was clear: cyber resilience is not simply an IT issue. It requires leadership and close alignment between technology, people and policy.
A changing world and what it means for UK real estate
In a timely keynote, David Rennie, Geopolitics Editor at The Economist, explored trade tensions, energy security, AI, defence spending and the changing global balance of power.
For UK real estate, his message carried important implications. Investment confidence depends on clear policy, stable regulation and predictable markets. At a time of international uncertainty, the UK has an opportunity to position itself as a stable destination for long-term capital.
Understanding the economic picture
Renowned economist Dr Gerard Lyons examined the forces shaping the decade ahead, including slower growth, rising debt, inflation and productivity challenges.
AI featured heavily in his outlook, both for its transformative potential and the scale of investment it is attracting. The discussion considered how the UK can benefit through innovation, research and support for universities and future talent.
These wider economic conditions will continue to influence confidence and decisions around investment, development and growth across real estate.
Confidence in the UK’s long-term prospects
Our Chief Executive Vanessa Hale was joined by James Seppala, Chairman of Blackstone Europe, to discuss the UK investment landscape.
Despite current market challenges, James reaffirmed Blackstone’s confidence in the UK’s long-term prospects, highlighting opportunities across logistics, leisure, hospitality and the living sector.
The conversation also explored sustainability and AI’s impact on the workplace. Creativity, adaptability and strong interpersonal skills were identified as qualities that will become increasingly valuable as technology continues to evolve.
Building the future of Real Estate:UK
Following lunch, Vanessa shared her early priorities for Real Estate:UK.
Recognising the strong foundations created by our predecessor organisations, she outlined her ambition to build an even stronger voice for the industry. She also reflected on the changing political environment, the need to encourage investment and real estate’s vital contribution to economic growth across the country.
Finding opportunity in today’s investment landscape
The final panel brought together John Forbes, Svitlana Gubriy of Aberdeen, Lee Marshall of LGPS Central and Nick Montgomery of Schroders.
While uncertainty remains a defining feature of the market, panellists challenged the idea that it should prevent investment. They discussed opportunities created by repricing, the growing importance of active asset management and the need to combine operational expertise with financial discipline.
There was broad agreement that real estate remains an attractive asset class for investors willing to remain flexible and take a long-term view.
Looking ahead
The conversations continued beyond the final session as attendees reconnected with colleagues, made new contacts and exchanged ideas throughout the day.
Thank you to our speakers and to our sponsors, Citco, CMS and Travers Smith, for their support. We’re also grateful to our exhibitors, Building Atlas, Infabode, SwitchShop and Luton AI, for helping to create a fantastic experience.
Most importantly, thank you to everyone who joined us for our first Annual Conference. We hope the conversations started on the day continue well beyond it.
Explore our upcoming events and book your next event here.
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