NLA Director Benjamin O’Connor reflects on London’s strong presence at MIPIM 2025, highlighting Mayor Sadiq Khan’s call for inclusive growth and international investment.

MIPIM 2025 saw a powerful message from the heart of London, delivered by Mayor Sadiq Khan. For the first time in his nine-year tenure as Mayor of London, Khan attended the renowned real estate and investment conference, and his message was unequivocal: London isn’t just the greatest city in the world—it is the greatest city in the world to invest in.

The Mayor's presence at MIPIM underscored London’s commitment to being open for business and particularly to attracting global investment. This year’s conference marked a historic alignment between the Mayor’s office, London Councils, the City of London, and the private sector, all working together to present a united front in showcasing the city’s immense potential. The collaboration highlights 20 key opportunities for investment in the capital, which are detailed in the latest Opportunity London prospectus.

Among these opportunities are ambitious projects aimed at transforming London’s skyline and infrastructure. These include the development of tens of thousands of new homes, millions of square feet of new commercial property, as well as ventures focused on build-to-rent housing, student accommodation, logistics hubs, urban sciences, and leisure developments. Sadiq Khan emphasised that one of the most effective ways to stimulate economic growth is through foreign direct investment. "More investment will help build homes, improve public transport, and strengthen infrastructure," Khan stated, pointing to the launch of the recent London Growth Plan as a critical step in driving investment into the city. This theme was consistently echoed throughout MIPIM 2025, with a clear focus on the city’s potential for growth and innovation.

Despite the overall optimism from global investors and attendees, there were still challenges to address. Jace Tyrell, CEO of Opportunity London, highlighted several concerns, notably the cost of capital, high interest rates, regulatory challenges, and the complexities of executing large-scale regeneration projects. These issues remain consistent hurdles in the quest for further investment in London’s future. "These are challenges we must work together to overcome if we are to unlock the billions we seek," Tyrell remarked.

In addition to the Mayor’s leadership, a robust delegation from London joined the effort to promote the city’s investment potential. Three Deputy Mayors, along with representatives from 10 London boroughs, participated in the conference to highlight the importance of inclusive growth and investment in the capital. They also made it clear that an investment in London is an investment in the broader UK economy, reinforcing the city’s role as a major player on the global stage.

The conference covered a broad range of themes that contribute to London’s global appeal.

Among these were discussions around the city’s rich cultural offering, its unique heritage, and its world-class tourism and experience sectors. Additionally, the event explored London’s burgeoning role as a hub for science, innovation, and technology, with a particular focus on attracting and retaining new talent. This forward-looking vision for the city’s future was one of the central topics at MIPIM, with a strong emphasis on building a more sustainable and equitable London.

Another key theme at the conference was the importance of diversity and inclusion. London’s stand at MIPIM was praised for being one of the most diverse spaces at the event, but we should acknowledge that there is still much work to be done to ensure that the built environment sector truly reflects the diverse makeup of the capital. Advocating for a more equitable built environment in London remains an essential task for everyone in the industry.

Looking ahead, the energy and enthusiasm surrounding MIPIM 2025 suggest a bright future for London. With a Labour Government and a Labour Mayor in place, the city is poised to continue its trajectory of growth and development. London is committed to not only being a financial powerhouse but also a model of inclusivity, sustainability, and innovation—a city that welcomes investment while ensuring it benefits everyone who calls it home.

MIPIM 2025 confirmed that London remains a global hub for investment and opportunity, with a shared vision among public and private sectors to drive the capital’s growth. As the city continues to evolve, it’s clear that London’s future is bright, and its doors are wide open for investment from across the globe.