Having successfully redefined its offer during its 30th anniversary in 2025, MAPIC will return in 2026 following the same formula of providing the largest international marketing platform for an audience of retail property decision makers.
In response to positive market feedback, the event will again offer an intensive two-day format taking place over 3-4 November, while the new networking area with private tables will be expanded to meet growing demand.
In an international context in which development activity is decreasing or decelerating, the key challenge for retail real estate players today lies in marketing existing spaces in redevelopments and extensions, as well as aligning the merchandising mix with consumer expectations.
With more than a third of all participants representing a brand, MAPIC is a key driver in influencing their global site selection. Offering a global networking hub, the updated MAPIC format is as an essential conduit, facilitating negotiations for new locations, relocations, and optimisations of retailers’ store networks.
In 2026, MAPIC aims to gather 1,800 brand representatives from around the world, seeking to expand in major European and international markets. This year, Asian, North and South American brands will be highlighted during invitation-only presentation sessions.
With investor sentiment towards retail having settled into positivity, this year’s MAPIC will shine a spotlight on opportunities within the high street and retail park sub-sectors.
A new ‘high street zone’ will be installed at the heart of the exhibition area to connect city representatives, agents specialising in high-street retail, and brands. A stage in the area will showcase opportunities and available sites in a selection of European and French cities and capitals during dedicated pitch sessions. At the same time, networking tables in the area will allow agents, cities, and brands to hold meetings in an exclusive environment.
A new forum is also being launched to bring together investor professionals and brands specialising in retail parks. Like other closed-door events, this new ‘Retail Park Summit’ will be a highlight of the MAPIC agenda.
Francesco Pupillo, Director of MAPIC, said: “By refocusing our value proposition on the qualification and quality of contacts, the wide range of brands and the ease of connections, MAPIC has established itself as the largest international marketing platform serving all retail asset classes: an unmissable event where everything is done to simplify business between participants”.
In a time of great uncertainty, successful retail development is defined more than ever by selective investment choices and site differentiation. Despite the upheavals of the past two decades, physical space has proved is ability to remain influential and relevant. Consumers, as well as investors, are more selective in how they allocate their time and capital. Influence strategies and data are therefore now intrinsically integrated into a retail destination’s growth prospects.
MAPIC 2026 will address these developments, highlighting their impact on different asset categories to help all market players adapt to these changes and promote sustainable growth.
