Editor: Last year was challenging for many in UK real estate. This was not due to investors losing interest in our market, but largely because it was difficult to move forward without certainty on Brexit.
With greater political certainty now, we expect to see fresh appetite for and confidence in investment both from within the UK and overseas.
In 2019, the UK high street struggled. There were record-high levels of store closures and the industry will be looking to our new government to solve the problems caused by business rates in the year ahead.
All businesses should use this new opportunity to think creatively about how they can remain competitive in an increasingly online marketplace. Investors will also be considering the increasing demand for a more diverse range of asset classes that will drive their return on investment.
Residential investment remains popular, but it is diversifying beyond open-market sale and BTR into more lifestyle-based offerings such as a shift to alternative retirement accommodation.
One trend that should remain top of the agenda in all workplaces in 2020 is mental health. In the past year, it has become acceptable to talk about “not being OK” and the more conversations we have in the workplace in 2020, the easier it becomes for those in need to seek help.
Then we can build a more prosperous and happier environment for all.
Andy Bruce, global head of real estate, Linklaters
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