Why I'm going to Expo Real with a lot of confidence this year

This year, I will again look for signs of a trend reversal in a sector that has been in crisis for a long time. I have already noticed that I was able to arrange more appointments in the run-up to the trade fair than ever before in recent years. I see that as a positive signal.

Expo Real has been a fixture in my calendar for over twenty years. And the more often I am there, the more I perceive the internationalization of this industry. Even though the venue is Munich, this trade fair has long since ceased to be a purely German or European event. Visitors come from all over Europe, from the USA, Canada, Great Britain, from the Middle East, from Asia and South America. The trade fair is thus a global meeting place for project developers, investors, urban planners, and many other players who earn their money with real estate.

Of course, the focus this year will also be on the question of how to build faster and more efficiently. Whether it is new buildings, additions, densification, or renovations: there is a lack of speed everywhere. This discussion is by no means limited to Germany or Portugal but runs like a red thread through all countries. Although there are new construction programs and subsidies, many industry representatives are skeptical whether the political measures will be sufficient to achieve noticeable improvements. Reducing bureaucracy and planning security remain crucial buzzwords.

Despite these challenges, I am already seeing straightforward signs of an improvement in sentiment. The depression that has characterized the industry in the last two years seems to be receding. In my preliminary talks, I sense a spirit of optimism: many want to roll up their sleeves, discover new horizons, and willingly look beyond their own noses. Expo Real 2025 could thus become a turning point that will give new energy to the industry and perhaps even send a positive signal in politically and economically challenging times.

Traditionally, Expo Real is a trade fair with clear business benefits. It offers the opportunity to present concrete projects and forge new partnerships. Networking is more than just a buzzword; it is the key to tangible business deals. At the same time, this year's trade fair will also focus on topics such as digitalization, energy efficiency, and sustainability. It is precisely these questions about the future that are crucial if the industry wants to remain resilient and innovative in the long term.

I am looking forward to bringing experiences and impressions from my trips to London, Las Vegas, Riyadh or Singapore into the conversations. I'm just as excited to see what I can learn from colleagues from all over the world. For me, this mutual inspiration is one of the most valuable aspects of the fair.

My conclusion in advance: The mood is better than in previous years, the dates are more numerous, and the hope for a trend reversal is palpable. Whether this will develop into a sustainable upswing remains to be seen. What is certain, however, is that Expo Real 2025 will once again be an important indicator for the future of the real estate industry.