Leeds has been chosen as the permanent host for The UK’s Real Estate Investment and Infrastructure Forum (UKREiiF). This decision is expected to have a significant economic impact, with £20 million in visitor spending and the attraction of 10,000-12,000 delegates, positioning Leeds as a premier destination for major industry events and highlighting its dynamic economic growth potential.
What economic impact will hosting UKREiiF have on Leeds?
Hosting The UK’s Real Estate Investment and Infrastructure Forum (UKREiiF) in Leeds is expected to significantly boost the local economy, with a forecast of £20 million in visitor spending and the attraction of 10,000-12,000 delegates. This positions Leeds as a premier destination for major industry events and showcases its dynamic economic growth potential.
Economic Implications of UKREiiF’s Decision
Following a period of intense deliberation, where several prominent cities were considered, Leeds has emerged victorious in the bid to become the permanent host for The UK’s Real Estate Investment and Infrastructure Forum (UKREiiF). The forum was established in 2022 and has since grown at an unprecedented pace, positioning itself as the leading event in Europe for the sectors of regeneration, development, and property. The anticipation for UKREiiF’s 2024 event is palpable, with an expected influx of 10,000-12,000 delegates.
This commitment from UKREiiF is set to bolster the local economy significantly, with a projected £20 million in visitor spending. The forum’s recent exploration of other potential host cities, including Birmingham, Manchester, and Liverpool, has highlighted the competitive nature of the event-hosting landscape. Despite this, Leeds has proven its merit and has been chosen to host UKREiiF beyond its 2024 conference scheduled for May 21-23.
Councillor James Lewis, representing Leeds City Council, expressed his enthusiasm for UKREiiF’s decision:
“We are delighted that UKREiiF is staying here in Leeds… UKREiiF represents a significant platform for highlighting the city and our dedication to fostering innovation, inclusive growth and resilience… Hosting the largest real estate conference of its kind in the UK is a testament to the growing reputation of Leeds and West Yorkshire…”
Statements from Local Leaders and Organizers
The announcement has garnered positive reactions from key figures in the region. Tom Riordan, chief executive of Leeds City Council, extended his gratitude to all who contributed to securing UKREiiF for Leeds:
“A big thank you to the UKREiiF team, the council and WYCA teams, the Royal Armouries and our Team Leeds partners… our power through partnership and focus on collaboration has proved very successful…”
Mayor of West Yorkshire Combined Authority, Tracy Brabin, recognized the strategic importance of the decision for the region:
“It’s fantastic news that UKREiiF will make Leeds its home for the years to come. It’s a real recognition that West Yorkshire can match the scale, ambition and momentum needed to host this global event.”
Keith Griffiths, the Chief Executive of UKREiiF, acknowledged the competitive nature of the selection process and the high quality of the venues and teams they encountered. However, he cited Leeds’ exciting growth prospects as a determining factor:
“…Leeds, with some really exciting propositions for growth, was the right city to host UKREiiF building on what we expect to be an excellent event in 2024.”
Impact and Future Developments
UKREiiF is not just an event; it is a catalyst for economic and social impact. Nathan Spencer, director of UKREiiF, outlined the tangible benefits of the forum’s presence in Leeds:
“Our work… saw us generate £12.1m in local economic impact, create £2.25m of social impact for local communities, and inspire the next generation… with our focus on D&I and social value.”
Similarly, Ben Campbell, venue director of the Royal Armouries, expressed his pride in retaining UKREiiF, noting the significance of the event for the city and the Yorkshire region. The Royal Armouries anticipates hosting an increasing number of delegates in the coming years, which aligns with UKREiiF’s growth objectives.
The Royal Armouries and UKREiiF are set to collaborate closely, ensuring that the event’s annual ambitions for expansion are realized. The success of UKREiiF in Leeds has been nothing short of spectacular, pointing towards a bright future for the city’s event-hosting capabilities.
For additional information about the UK’s Real Estate Investment and Infrastructure Forum and its upcoming events in Leeds, please visit their official website at UKREiiF.
This announcement marks a milestone for Leeds, solidifying its position as a leading destination for major industry events. The city’s capacity to attract and retain an event of this magnitude signals a vibrant and dynamic economic environment, ripe with opportunities for development and investment.
- Leeds has been chosen as the permanent host for The UK’s Real Estate Investment and Infrastructure Forum (UKREiiF).
- The decision is expected to have a significant economic impact, with £20 million in visitor spending and the attraction of 10,000-12,000 delegates.
- This positions Leeds as a premier destination for major industry events and highlights its dynamic economic growth potential.
- Leeds beat out other potential host cities such as Birmingham, Manchester, and Liverpool.
- The event is not just an event but a catalyst for economic and social impact, generating local economic impact, social impact, and inspiring the next generation.