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first time players and digital native vertical brands. And there will also be a MAPIC. Far from it, the market has seen for example the huge shift to
fan zone, because the World Cup in Qatar will be taking place! omni-channel retailing and now most companies have established their
Sustainability will be a core element of MAPIC 2022 and it is absolutely strategies around digital and physical. So even if a new model is needed,
clear that there has been a huge shift towards environmental, social and this also presents a huge opportunity.
community issues and it is not possible for investors, developers or Everything is changing – new financial models are required, far more
landlords to operate their businesses without a clear ESG agenda. And for flexibility will be required among both real estate and retail companies and
retailers and brands, the younger generation simply will not buy products in many ways that changes are not just about business but fundamentally
or services if they are not satisfied with the sustainability or ethical values about the way we live our lives.
of those brands. It is a radical change, and one we will reflect at MAPIC. In fact, the industry has already proved to be extremely resilient.
Apart from the many conference sessions dedicated to the subject and While there are many concerns about the end of the year, when I
our focus on a more “human” business world, we will also have a special speak to retailers and F&B operators, many had been enjoying a strong
premium networking event on the theme of sustainability. And last but 2022 and have already been able to develop their offers to have the
not least, we have pledged that this will be the most sustainable MAPIC right number and kind of physical stores and to invest in their online
yet, with a host of commitments and practical solutions as we strive to capabilities. And I am delighted to say that this year we will see more
improve continuously and to constantly reduce our environmental impact. international companies back at MAPIC from outside Europe, including
major players from the Middle East and the US.
What does the new mix mean for MAPIC and what it Finally, we are delighted to be hosting our Awards ceremony in
showcases? Cannes and once again we are adapting them to reflect the new realities.
I think it is obvious that for most companies – and even for us at So for example, among the traditional categories, we will also reward
MAPIC – there is an ongoing search for the new equilibrium. There has companies for innovation and sustainability – both retailers and real
been so much change that the industry and the world is in constant flux estate – and we will also celebrate the malls, retail parks and outlets
and that makes it a very dynamic and fluid situation. which have shown the best performance coming out of the pandemic.
But without underestimating the current challenges, it is also important Finally, attendees will have the chance to vote in the pitching sessions
to remember that this is not the first crisis that retailers and real estate and the most popular will receive an Award. We want MAPIC 2022 to
players have faced in the years that we have been hosting the industry at be all about positive vibes!