The world’s leading retail property event, MAPIC 2025, will once again transform the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès in Cannes into the global capital of retail real estate. The fair will be held on 4 and 5 November, followed by the NextGen Retail Day on 6 November (by invitation only). It aims to be the primary international marketplace for the leasing of retail and mixed-use space, aligning the world’s brands, investors, and landlords around real business results.
MAPIC’s 2025 edition now comes with a two-day sharper format that looks to turn networking into measurable leasing. All exhibitor areas will come together at Riviera 7, creating an energetic and dynamic marketplace. The launch of the Premium Networking Zone at Riviera 8 will feature private terraces and lounges reserved for meetings.
“We have honed our value proposition around three pillars: higher-quality meetings, broader brand participation, and simpler, more effective networking.”
— Francesco Pupillo, Director of MAPIC.
The market environment, where time and attention are now precious, has necessitated this change in structure. The event will now focus on fewer but more valuable interactions, according to MAPIC’s organisers, replacing volume with verifiable business efficiencies.
Global Expansion and International Brands
The retail and leisure concepts continue to accelerate across borders, with a strong push from US and Asian brands to enter Europe, as MAPIC 2025 reveals. Among the confirmed participants are Xiaomi, Alo Yoga, Costco, and Krispy Kreme, demonstrating strong momentum in international brand expansion.
The organisers are expecting a higher turnout than last year, showing renewed optimism among global retail brands and investors in physical retail assets.
Key Facts and Figures
The Palais des Festivals et des Congrès in Cannes will host MAPIC 2025 from 4 to 5 November 2025, followed by NextGen Retail Day on 6 November. According to event representatives, more than 70 countries have already confirmed their participation. The event is expected to bring together thousands of delegates and experts from the retail, leisure, and hospitality sectors. It will feature more than 160 exhibitors from over 70 countries.
Main Themes and Market Focus
Under the umbrella theme “Driving Value, Building Growth,” MAPIC 2025 will showcase how the retail property sector is responding to new economic, technological, and social dynamics. Sessions will cover redevelopment and adaptive reuse of existing assets, leasing and customer engagement using AI and data analytics, the rise of leisure and food concepts, and investment opportunities in India and the Middle East.
On 6 November, the NextGen Retail Day will open doors for students from leading European schools and senior industry figures to discuss shopping habits, sustainability, and the physical and digital retail environment.
Costs and Practical Details
MAPIC has frozen its rates for 2025, with accommodation and participation fees remaining at 2024 levels. Rooms in Cannes start at around €100 per night through its official partner bnetwork, while mid-range hotels average €190–€220.
The price of delegate passes is usually €1,500 to €2,000, while some sector associations offer a €995 landlord package, as well as free retailer quotas. Air France offers a 10% flight discount to delegates, and several Cannes restaurants provide fixed-price MAPIC menus throughout the week.
Where the Action Happens
All exhibitors — covering retail, leisure, food, and entertainment — will come together on Riviera 7 to foster quick connections. The Premium Networking Zone will take centre stage on Riviera 8, designed for confidential meetings and deal discussions. On the evening of 4 November, delegates will gather for a networking reception on the Croisette, replacing the traditional gala dinner.
Industry Insights
Analysts believe MAPIC 2025 will be a milestone in the post-pandemic retail recovery. Investors are returning to ESG-certified assets and experience-oriented retail concepts after years of consolidation, combining the best of commerce, entertainment, and lifestyle.
“Asian and US retailers are driving expansion momentum in Europe.”
— MAPIC 2025 Organiser Briefing.
Experts say that the simplified structure and global presence will make MAPIC 2025 a pivotal moment for leasing strategies among developers and cities repositioning retail assets.
Why MAPIC 2025 Matters
Cannes remains the centre of retail investment in Europe, where real discussions take place face to face. MAPIC 2025 provides a key platform for brands seeking flagship locations and landlords pursuing stable tenants, as travel, tourism, and consumer spending continue to rebound.
Final Perspective
As MAPIC 2025 Cannes, the world’s leading retail property event, prepares for a new edition, its refined format and expanding global attendance will transform it from a traditional property fair into a strategic deal-making platform. The priorities are efficiency, sustainability, and measurable growth. In a changing market, Cannes in November will once again be where the next wave of European retail deals begins.
