### Real Estate and Changing C-Suite Business Strategies
Not long ago, operational businesses viewed real estate primarily as a cost item. However, a recent survey by CBRE, *C-Suite Perspectives: Empowering Business Through Real Estate*, reveals a significant shift—many business leaders now see real estate as a strategic opportunity with untapped potential to deliver value.
The survey gathered insights from more than 250 C-suite executives, highlighting key findings:
– **94%** of respondents consider real estate essential for achieving business objectives.
– **50%** believe real estate will become more critical to core business goals over the next three years.
– **72%** view their current real estate portfolios as positive contributors.
– **76%** want greater influence or involvement in real estate decisions.
The report underscores the growing role of real estate as a strategic tool for achieving key business objectives. Notably, office-focused sectors are more likely to view real estate as highly important compared to manufacturing and distribution industries.
### Key Priorities for Corporate Real Estate Teams
C-suite leaders are also looking to their real estate teams to enhance business resilience while managing costs. The survey identified several priority areas for corporate real estate (CRE) activities, including:
– Providing flexible workspace options.
– Measuring property portfolio performance.
– Strengthening supply chain resilience.
– Controlling real estate costs.
– Optimizing real estate locations.
Furthermore, corporate leaders expect their real estate portfolios to offer flexibility for future changes, attract and retain top talent, and support sustainability initiatives.
This shift in perspective highlights the evolving role of real estate in business strategy, with executives now recognizing its power to drive long-term value and resilience.
