Outlook

31% of real estate professionals are now feeling optimistic, compared with just 14% in the wake of the EU referendum in summer 2016. However, 79% feel the uncertainty in British politics is having an adverse impact on their organisation.

The top two concerns for retailers regarding Brexit centre on new customs requirements (44%) and the declining popularity of British brands and products among EU buyers (35%).

Manchester remains comfortably in the top spot of preferred regional cities with 63%, though Bristol with 38% and Edinburgh with 32% have both made gains of almost 10% since 2016.

Distribution and logistics is by far the most appealing asset class at 74%, with industrial property not far behind at 61%. By contrast, retail property has dropped from 35% of those polled saying it appealed in 2016, down to a mere 7% in 2018.