Business
AI, energy and demographic shifts to redefine global business hubs
TORONTO, May 19, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Five powerful forces - from AI driven workforce transfo...
About this update from Colliers International Group Inc.
[{"type":"text","content":"AI, energy and demographic shifts to redefine global business hubsColliers Global Occupier Services megatrends report outlines five forces reshaping corporate real estate and location strategy\nTORONTO, May 19, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Five powerful forces - from AI driven workforce transformation to intensifying energy constraints – are set to redefine how companies choose, build, and operate locations worldwide, according to a new report from Colliers Global Occupier Services. Building Resilience: 5 Megatrends Redefining Corporate Real Estate uncovers rising pressure on established global business hubs, and presents strategies organizations can use to strengthen resilience and long-term competitiveness amid accelerating change. The report is the first in-depth study of the sweeping technological, demographic and economic shifts poised to reshape global real estate in the decades ahead. Drawing on analysis from Colliers’ industry-leading research teams and insights from Colliers leaders across regions, the Outlook evaluates the readiness of companies to respond to these forces and provides strategic pathways to future-proof workplaces and portfolios. The report identifies five distinct yet intertwined megatrends impacting real estate decisions: AI-enabled workforces: The rapid integration of automation, analytics and AI into business functions is transforming workforce composition, decision-making and space requirements. Seismic demographic shifts: Aging populations and skill shortages are accelerating the need for new workforce strategies and geographic talent planning. Energy scarcity and security: Power-intensive technologies and infrastructure limitations are intensifying competition for reliable, affordable energy, making energy access a critical location factor.Climate risks: More frequent extreme weather events and rising physical climate risks are necessitating investments in resiliency and reshaping the long-term viability of major hubs. Shifting global order: The realignment of long-established trade patterns and economic corridors are redistributing growth, prompting companies to re-evaluate location strategies and supply chain dependencies. “These megatrends will require businesses to fundamentally reassess the ways they plan, invest in and operationalise locations and workplaces,” said A...