RLA Global CEO Roger Allen Joins MIPIM Panel on Mixed-Use Developments

Joining a great panel with Claire Flurin, R&D Innovation Director- Keys AM, David Heijligers, Managing Director France & Benelux Development-Hilton, Charlotte Rosier, Director-Cuckooz, and well moderated by Vanguelis Panayotis, CEO-MKG.

One of the main industry changes to impact the hospitality sector is diversification.  Hotels do not just provide bedrooms any more, they are also expected to provide serviced apartments, co-working spaces, Michelin starred restaurants, the coolest cocktail bars and entertainment as well as state of the art fitness and sporting facilities.  

Discussion points included:  Mixed-use development is becoming the norm for hotel development, however figuring out what the best use mix is an expensive jigsaw puzzle.  Incorporating the local community is an essential element particularly for models that offer co-living, co-working and want to attract locals with F&B offerings.  Creative lodging that caters to the travelling family and provides a nanny service is something Cuckooz has identified.  Wellness is all the trend but real estate developers should not be fooled into creating oversized spas that waste space and don’t add value. 

Hotel operators are very keen to manage mixed-use operations, but hybrid operations also require hybrid and imaginative management agreements.

There is no magic formula for mixed-use and it requires owners/developers to be very hands-on in the development phase particularly given such a development brings together a varied mix of expertise that needs to work collectively to realize an economically viable project. 

For more information on MIPIM