The real estate sector is on the brink of a technological revolution, as highlighted by industry expert Will Lewis. This transformation, driven by ‘proptech’, has the potential to redefine traditional property operations.
Leading the charge is Manchester’s renowned OBI Property, under the guidance of founding director Will Lewis. His forward-thinking approach considers how technology can streamline processes and embrace future developments in property management.
The Awakening to PropTech Potential
Will Lewis, the visionary at OBI Property, believes that the property industry is ripe for technological advancement. His insights at the recent BusinessCloud’s Property Hotseat event were illuminating. Despite the sector’s traditional ways, Lewis sees a vast opportunity for growth through proptech.
Lewis candidly admits to the industry’s backward stance on technology, stating that even tech-savvy professionals would be surprised at its archaic practices. Yet, he remains committed to pushing OBI Property into the forefront of this digital evolution.
The Ever-Changing Property Landscape
Since 2010, OBI Property has cemented its reputation in Manchester, advising landlords and occupiers on optimising their real estate needs. The city itself has witnessed significant shifts, especially within the banking and legal sectors.
As businesses aim to manage costs, there’s a noticeable trend towards optimising space and boosting efficiency. This approach, which OBI advocates, is reflected in the way firms are reducing occupancy costs while adapting modern strategies.
A Hub for Innovation and Growth
Manchester has consistently been a magnet for business investment, driven by its dynamic industries and tech sectors.
Collaborations with companies such as Rentalcars and AO showcase how technology is integral to business growth, a standpoint Lewis strongly supports. These partnerships highlight Manchester’s commitment to staying competitive in the tech-driven world.
As Lewis notes, the city thrives on diverse economic contributions, from creative sectors to e-commerce, further underscoring the need for innovative real estate solutions.
The St Michael’s Development: A Visionary Project
A major project at the heart of Manchester is the St Michael’s development, a collaborative vision between Lewis and ex-footballer Gary Neville. This ambitious initiative aims to redefine the city’s skyline with international appeal.
Critics have expressed concerns, yet Lewis argues that such developments are essential for Manchester’s continued growth. He sees it as a monumental step forward, promising both aesthetic appeal and functional benefits.
Challenges in Modernising Real Estate
While the demand for new developments is clear, the industry faces a supply shortage, particularly in new-build offices. Lewis emphasizes the importance of strategic locations to meet this demand.
His insights reflect a thoughtful balance between maintaining Manchester’s heritage and embracing its future. Lewis believes modern infrastructure is crucial for attracting global investments, thereby enhancing the city’s economic landscape.
A proper five-star hotel in Manchester’s core remains a key goal, adding to the city’s allure and supporting its thriving business environment.
Conclusion
The advent of proptech is set to transform the real estate industry profoundly, with pioneers like Will Lewis leading this change.
Manchester stands at the cusp of an exciting era, where technology and development work hand in hand to shape a prosperous future for the city.
The adoption of proptech by industry leaders signals a promising shift towards efficiency and innovation in real estate.
With Manchester at its core, this transformation supports the city’s vision of becoming a global hub for technology and business growth.