GLASGOW — As global cities and regions courted investors at MIPIM 2025 in Cannes, the world’s largest property event, Scotland remained notably absent—a decision now under scrutiny by industry leaders, investors, and development experts.
In response, MLA architecture and design, in partnership with Saffery, is convening a high-profile panel on Wednesday evening titled “Bringing the Scottish Property Sector to a Global Audience of Investors.” The event, held at The Social Club in Glasgow, aims to explore how Scotland can reclaim its position on the global investment map.
A Costly No-Show?
While regional authorities from Manchester, Liverpool, and Leeds showcased major developments and secured meetings with institutional investors in Cannes, Scotland’s non-participation at MIPIM 2025 has sparked questions over its international visibility—and long-term economic strategy.
“The absence of a coordinated Scottish presence at MIPIM sends a message we can’t afford to send,” said Jonathan Guthrie, Director for Strategic Partnerships at Robertson Group, ahead of the panel. “Our competitors are building relationships, pitching projects, and making deals—we’re not even in the room.”
Inside the Panel
Tonight’s event brings together a diverse mix of voices from across the property and investment landscape:
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Jonathan Guthrie, Robertson Group
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Adam Russell, Investment Director at Drum Properties
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Lillian McDowall, Head of Business Development at Scape Scotland
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Louise Norris, Partner at Lindsays
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Dino Moutsopoulos, Managing Partner at Place North
Moderated by MLA, the panel will explore key themes such as:
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How MIPIM attendance influences investment flows
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Scotland’s missed opportunities in 2025
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Best practices from other European and UK regions
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Strategies to build international investor confidence
Regional Comparison: England’s Aggressive Playbook
Cities in Northern England have leveraged MIPIM to attract billions in capital over the past decade. Manchester’s regular pavilion has become a cornerstone for launching mixed-use, infrastructure, and regeneration projects—often backed by institutional capital.
“Manchester understands the power of telling its story well, consistently, and in the right rooms,” said Dino Moutsopoulos of Place North. “It’s not just about one deal—it’s about positioning a region as investable, open, and dynamic.”
Risk of Isolation
For Scottish developers, legal firms, planners, and architects, the issue is not simply symbolic. Many argue that Scotland risks being left out of global investor conversations, particularly as other UK regions deepen their relationships with European and Middle Eastern funds.
“There’s a perception gap,” said Lillian McDowall of Scape Scotland. “Our market fundamentals are strong—rents are holding, demand is healthy—but we’re not broadcasting that story where it counts.”
Looking Ahead
The Glasgow gathering will also explore how Scotland can re-enter the MIPIM arena in 2026, potentially under a new coordinated strategy involving public agencies, local authorities, and private sector stakeholders.
The goal, says MLA, is to develop a proactive narrative that showcases Scotland’s unique development potential—from Glasgow’s tech and life sciences corridors to Edinburgh’s commercial core and renewable energy infrastructure across the Highlands.
The evening is expected to include both panel insights and informal networking, with a call to action for the Scottish property sector: If you’re not present, you’re not part of the conversation.
