Real Estate: Navigating the Executive mindset
In this article published on the Society of Industrial & Office Realtors - SIOR’s website, Arnaud Syoën, Director at Eight Advisory, shares his insights on the concerns that influences C-suite real estate decisions and business strategies.
These are testing times for C-suite leaders, grappling with pandemic aftershocks, geopolitical turmoil, economic headwinds, and political instability. How do such forces shape corporate strategy and real estate choices?
Executives are still navigating the post-pandemic workplace and striving to balance employee flexibility with productivity. Many are ret hinking office design to make spaces more attractive and comfortable, incorporating features such as hotel-like services and a ‘homely’ aesthetic. At the same time, cost efficiency remains a priority and companies are optimising their real estate holdings, even if rising rents in the industry are driving some tenants to become owners.
“For many executives, the question is no longer how much space they need but what kind of space will attract and retain top talent.” – Arnaud Syoën.
Economic and political uncertainties are increasing the complexity of the business. European executives fear stagnation and are adjusting their financial planning accordingly, while US companies are struggling with high interest rates and financing issues. Global political dynamics, including potential tariffs and tax changes under the leadership of Donald Trump, are leading to cautious behaviour among investors and manufacturers.
Supply chains have recovered since the pandemic, but recent disruptions have pushed industries to expand domestic operations for greater security, raising demand for industrial space and rents. Leaders are focused on building more resilient, localised supply chains, with brokers playing an important role.
“Leaders are increasingly focused on building more resilient, localized, and flexible supply-chain networks.” – Arnaud Syoën
C-suite executives are also embracing AI to improve decision-making and efficiency, though concerns about privacy and bias remain. While AI may streamline staffing, brokers will still be essential advisers during market shifts.
Read the full version of the article by Rachel Antman, published in the 2025 Spring Report of the SIOR.
