Investments in sustainability and digitization measures are becoming increasingly important for budget planning in real estate management, but too little importance is still often attached to them. This is a key finding of our latest trend study on Corporate Real Estate Management (CREM). This year, 273 real estate managers from a wide range of sectors – mainly in Germany, Austria and Switzerland – took part in the study. Although most of them are well aware of the opportunities offered by ESG, digital tools and AI, they nonetheless continue to invest too little in the necessary measures.
Improved organizational transparency
Compared to the previous year, developments with regard to increasing organizational process transparency have been positive. Only 15 percent confirmed a lack of transparency, compared to 33 percent in the previous survey. This is thanks to modern technologies and digital tools such as CAFM systems and portfolio management tools, which allow deeper insights into processes and continually provide real estate managers with precise, up-to-date knowledge.
The challenge of digitization
According to the survey, nearly all companies recognize the advantages of digitization, including improved processes, higher efficiency and lower operating costs. Implementation, however, remains challenging. The respondents cite a continued lack of standards, high investment costs and a lack of the necessary employee skills as reasons for this. Almost half also call for greater transparency about what digital tools can really do. In addition, one in three real estate managers would like to see improved user-friendliness and more interactive design of digital systems. Although the majority of them are convinced of the opportunities, few are willing to invest in the necessary measures.
Implementation of ESG-related measures
When it comes to sustainability, companies are increasingly focusing on ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance). More than half of the companies are already working on a clearly defined strategy. Most companies only partially integrate their corporate ESG strategy, particularly in the area of CREM. However, 26 percent of respondents say they have an ESG strategy that is consistent with their overall corporate strategy. Only just over 30 percent of respondents attach higher priority to ESG measures in their budget planning.
You can download all the findings of the 2024 CREM Trend Study here.