The annual event is due to commence tomorrow morning in Leeds city centre.
Founded by Keith Griffiths, a Leeds-based businessman, the UK’s Real Estate Investment and Infrastructure Forum (UKREiiF) is due to kick off tomorrow morning (Tuesday 20th May) at Leeds Dock. As ever, the event will see policymakers, housing experts, developers and investors gather to discuss the challenges currently hindering levelling up and regeneration progress.
UKREiiF first launched in 2022 and, since then, it has only grown in popularity. The first event attracted around 3,500 delegates, however this year it is expected to see over 16,000.
And this is just visitors. The event is set to take over the entirety of Leeds Dock, with events, such as talks and exhibitions, taking place in the Royal Armouries Museum, New Dock Hall and in marquees pitched along the canal.
Image: Dozens of marquees pitched at last year’s UKREiiF event.
What’s more, this year is expected to include over 1,250 speakers spanning across 60 stages and 150+ exhibitors.
Image: One of the talks from UKREiiF 2024.
The topics up for discussion appear endless. Ahead of UKREiiF starting, some experts have already revealed their event programmes which showcase what their region has to offer. For example, Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, will lead a team of partners from across the region where she will display major commercial development destinations like East Midlands Freeport and East Midlands Investment Zone.
Meanwhile, in the North West, Liverpool City Region Combined Authority have likewise announced they will be presenting the projects that are transforming the region. Mayor Steve Rotherham said: ‘With a dedicated pavilion, we can demonstrate how collaboration across our six boroughs is unlocking opportunities, attracting investment, and solidifying our reputation as a leader in green, digital, and advanced industries.
‘This isn’t just about showing what we can do – it’s about helping to shape the future of the economy.’
On the subject of economy – a theme that will undoubtedly crop up throughout the event – last year’s edition of UKREiiF generated around £21m of local economic activity in Leeds and the wider West Yorkshire region. Similarly, separate research from ARUP found UKREiiF delivered a £38.5m economic boost since it started in 2022 – with £5.5m in 2022, £12.1m in 2023 and £20.9m in 2024.
Though this event hasn’t even begun yet, it has already been renewed for 2026 and will, once again, be hosted in Leeds.
More details, including how to register last minute and a list of speakers and exhibitors set to appear at the event, which is due to run until Thursday 22nd May, can be accessed here.
Images: Emily Whitehouse.
In related news:
London boroughs encouraged to slash spending on council housing
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