MAPIC will mark its 30th edition in 2025 with a restructured format designed to reflect major shifts in the global retail landscape. With new dates, a streamlined two-day schedule, and reconfigured spaces, the international event will centre its focus more closely on retail leasing and business development.
Now described as ‘The International Retail Leasing Hub’, MAPIC will take place on Tuesday 4 and Wednesday 5 November, with an exclusive, invitation-only day on Thursday 6 November dedicated to the future of retail. The format shift responds to a decline in new global development projects and aims to support real estate professionals and expanding brands with commercially focused, high-value meetings.
Over 2,000 brand representatives are expected to participate, building on a 32% increase in brand attendance since 2019. To expand further, particularly among American and Asian brands, MAPIC is launching an Executive Retail Programme. The initiative will offer practical support including help with accommodation costs and curated meetings between brands and project developers.
Francesco Pupillo, Director of MAPIC, commented:
“For both brands and developers, MAPIC remains a valued platform for generating business opportunities. However, in today’s climate, it’s increasingly challenging to justify the time and investment required for a three-day trip to Cannes. That’s why we’ve reimagined the format – without losing sight of MAPIC’s core purpose.
We’ve sharpened our value proposition around three pillars: high-quality meetings, broader brand participation, and simpler, more effective networking. This transformation marks MAPIC’s 30th edition as the world’s leading international retail leasing event – designed to deliver maximum value and make doing business easier for everyone involved.”
As part of the changes, all exhibition stands – including those for leisure and food operators – will be consolidated on Level Riviera 7 at Le Palais. A new addition, Level Riviera 8, will serve as a premium networking zone with bookable sea-view tables, a private terrace, and dedicated hospitality suites. These packages will include delegate badges and optional services, aimed at encouraging more focused and efficient business interactions.
New cost-saving initiatives are also being introduced. Delegates will have access to hotel packages starting at €100 per night, discounted flights through Air France, and fixed-price restaurant menus throughout the week. For those not taking exhibition space, MAPIC is also offering private table packages to allow easier access to the event’s networking opportunities.
The 2025 conference programme will explore the theme ‘Creating value to build growth’, touching on areas such as sustainability, investment, consumer engagement and technology. These subjects will be discussed across retail, hospitality, real estate, and leisure sectors.
Thursday 6 November will be reserved for NextGen Retail Day, an invitation-only event uniting senior leaders with international students to discuss future trends and encourage cross-generational dialogue.
To celebrate its 30th year, MAPIC will also combine its usual cocktail and gala dinner into a single, large-scale reception open to all attendees on the evening of Tuesday 4 November.
