MIPIM 2025 was a defining moment for Manchester. From front-page headlines to game-changing investment opportunities, this year’s presence cemented the city’s reputation as a global leader in real estate, innovation, and sustainable growth. But it wasn’t just about making noise - it was about making an impact.   

With a packed programme of events, Manchester brought together investors, developers, and city leaders to showcase the bold vision driving the city-region forward. From the transformative regeneration of Old Trafford to the launch of the Greater Manchester Investment Prospectus, the momentum was undeniable. And with powerful partnerships at the heart of every conversation, one thing was clear: Manchester isn’t just keeping pace with the future - it’s shaping it.   

So, what were the moments that stood out?  

1. The Manchester takeover 

For anyone who has ever set foot in Cannes during MIPIM, you’ll know that Manchester doesn’t just turn up - we take over. This year, we set our sights higher than ever, and the results spoke for themselves. The Manchester stand, with its bold new colour scheme, stood out across the Croisette. And if that wasn’t enough, we secured the front cover of the official MIPIM magazine on Day 1 - proof that Manchester wasn’t just part of the conversation; we were leading it.   

With 46 partners, including all 10 local authorities, backing the delegation, we delivered an incredible programme of 19 events. From transformational regeneration projects like Old Trafford to major infrastructure plans enhancing rail connectivity between Manchester and Liverpool, the momentum was palpable. And people took notice - more than 1,300 visitors walked through the doors of the Manchester stand across three days, eager to hear from the visionaries shaping the future of our city-region.   

2. Old Trafford Regeneration: A game-changer for Manchester 

Manchester’s football heritage is world-renowned, but at MIPIM 2025, the conversation wasn’t just about the beautiful game - it was about the transformational impact of the Old Trafford Regeneration project. The plans unveiled at MIPIM weren’t just bold; they were monumental. A 100,000-seater stadium designed by Foster + Partners will sit at the heart of a thriving new district, creating 17,000 new homes, 48,000 jobs, and £7.3 billion in economic growth. 

This wasn’t just another panel discussion - it was a statement of intent. Old Trafford is set to become more than just a football destination; it’s the catalyst for a once-in-a-generation regeneration project. The excitement in the room was undeniable, as industry leaders shared conceptual designs and models that painted a vision of what’s to come. And in true Manchester style, the message was clear: we do things differently here.   

3. Investment Prospectus launch: Unlocking Manchester’s growth potential 

MIPIM would be complete without the launch of the Greater Manchester Investment Prospectus, and 2025 was no exception. This year’s prospectus set out 10 major investment opportunities, spanning commercial, residential, and infrastructure projects designed to fuel Manchester’s growth over the next decade.   

By targeting investment at Six Growth Locations across the city-region, Greater Manchester is ensuring long-term, sustainable growth that benefits everyone. 

MIDAS is proud to be part of this collective effort, working alongside public and private sector partners to keep Manchester at the forefront of global investment.   

Want to check out the Greater Manchester Investment Prospectus for yourself? Download it here > 

4. The power of partnerships 

They say it’s ‘mint up North,’ and if there’s one thing Manchester does exceptionally well, it’s bringing people together to make things happen. 

With world-leading expertise in finance and professional services, life sciences, creative and tech, and last but not least advanced manufacturing and low carbon, Manchester’s sector strengths are unrivalled. And when it comes to foreign direct investment, MIDAS is at the heart of it - connecting global investors with one of the leading economies in the UK.   

The proof? A £78.7 billion GVA, recognition as the Top Large UK City for Economic Potential (FDI Intelligence, 2024), and a delegation at MIPIM that represented all 10 local authorities for the first time ever.   

It’s this public-private collaboration that continues to unlock investment and drive Manchester’s competitive edge on the global stage. And thanks to the 46 partners backing our presence at MIPIM, we’re making sure Manchester isn’t just on the map - it’s setting the pace.   

5. Vision for the future 

Greater Manchester is entering a new era of economic growth, with major projects set to redefine the city-region over the next decade.   

Mayor Andy Burnham put it best, stating: “Greater Manchester is the UK’s fastest-growing economy, and it’s only right that we are at the heart of Europe’s biggest investment summit making the case for our city-region. 

“With our devolved powers, our new integrated settlement, and our unique pipeline for maximising growth, we’ve got the ingredients that make this the best place to invest – helping us to deliver the new homes and jobs that we need.”  

From Therme Manchester to Sister and Hulton Park, the pipeline of projects is set to supercharge growth across the region. With innovation, creativity, and resilience embedded in Manchester’s DNA, the city’s future has never looked brighter.  

And finally... Manchester vs. the elements 

If there’s one thing we’re used to in Manchester, it’s the rain. But even the biblical downpours that hit Cannes couldn’t put a damper on what was an exceptional week for the city-region.   

MIPIM 2025 was about momentum, ambition, and opportunity - and Manchester delivered on all fronts. The Manchester stand felt like home away from home, bringing together investors, developers, and leaders who share our vision for a thriving, forward-thinking city.   

So, as we dry off and look ahead to MIPIM 2026, one thing is certain: Manchester is just getting started.