The second edition of the real estate congress held in Barcelona has become a major platform for attracting national and international investors and companies, according to Juan Velayos, president of The District. Despite its success, the event was marred by housing activists protesting against the real estate industry.
During the congress, protesters organized by various entities, such as the Platform for Mortgage Affected People, blocked the main entrance to the venue and threw powdered paint at attendees. Although the Mossos d’Esquadra, the regional police force, did not intervene at the time, they have faced criticism for their inaction. As a result, the organizers of the event will request a meeting with the Ministry of Interior to address the issue.
These incidents have caused dissatisfaction among the event’s major sponsors, who are considering pressuring The District to leave Barcelona and seek alternative cities like Malaga, Valencia, or Seville. However, both Velayos and Albert Planas, CEO of Nebext, the organizing company, have expressed their desire for the congress to continue in Barcelona and have highlighted the support received from the Barcelona City Council.
Despite the protests, The District managed to attract over 10,100 visitors and saw the participation of significant national and international companies. The congress brought together 391 experts in the real estate sector, with 274 companies taking part.
Sources:
- Cinco Días
- El Periódico de Catalunya