CBRE Global Workplace Solutions reports on how FM trends are changing.
06 January 2020 | Herpreet Kaur Grewal
Building occupiers are shifting their focus from cutting costs to finding providers that prioritise "innovation, sustainability and diversity" initiatives, according to a report on FM trends.
CBRE Global Workplace Solutions' report, Top Trends in Facilities Management, shows how changes in occupier needs are influencing FM strategies. It breaks down the latest trends into four broad categories: client relationships, contracts, an increasing focus on people, and technology.
The report identifies a shift in occupier priorities from cutting costs to finding a provider that can add value through innovation, sustainability and diversity initiatives and priorities.
This change in onus "naturally leads to relationships between occupiers, FM providers and their supply chains becoming longer-lasting and more sustainable", it states.
These longer-term contracts are increasingly focused on helping occupiers to attract and retain talent and showcase their brand both internally and externally.
The study also identifies a growing demand for simplified contracts, which supports providers offering a holistic solution whereby they manage all real estate elements for an occupier to maximise effectiveness.
The CBRE GWS report can be accessed at: tinyurl.com/FacMag0120-FMTrends
Four FM trend categories
Relationship foundations
- Suppliers of the future Outsourcing priorities are changing. Suppliers of the future will need to be more collaborative, forward-thinking and tech-savvy than ever before.
- Sustainable relationships Challenging economic conditions have seen some suppliers struggle to survive. Customers are now looking to build long-term, sustainable relationships, rather than focusing on short-term gains.
- Supply chain as a strategic advantage Conversations with supply partners are moving from how they can reduce cost to how they can add value.
Evolving contract models
- Simplicity Simplifying contract arrangements can benefit both parties, but requires a platform of trust and transparency.
- Future-proofing and realism Clients no longer want facilities management services delivered in isolation. They want a long-term partner that can help them attract and retain talent and showcase their brand both internally and externally.
Technology - threats and opportunities
- Security management and asset protection Security is evolving as a function, owing to complex and ever-changing threats, and the evolution of the workplace.
- Transforming performance with technology 70 per cent of companies intend to raise their investment in real estate technology over the next few years.
Focus on people
- Attracting and retaining talent Much has been made of the skills shortage facing today's business. What does it mean for the FM industry and our customers?
- The experience is everything Companies engaged in the war for talent are increasingly focused on how their workplace experience can be used to attract and retain top employees.
- Green buildings Owners and occupiers understand the impact their portfolio has on the environment, and are increasingly moving towards greener solutions.
