First summit shows SHHA is mainstream
We were delighted with our first Senior Housing and Healthcare Summit, in Brussels, co-organised with EPRA, writes Ron van Bloois. The programme of this lively one-day conference, with four expert panels on policy-making, operational excellence, investment markets and investing with purpose/ESG, was enhanced by keynote speakers from the European Commission.
The SHHA’s journey began just three-and-a-half years ago. It has been driven by a willingness by stakeholders and peers to share. We are a colourful group of industry leaders with a pan-European scope that has now moved beyond those borders. We have welcomed our first US-based member to the family, and Asian markets are around the corner.
Sharing a vision and best practices for our ageing society is SHHA’s purpose. We want to reframe the markets with a focus on the consumer behaviour of older adults and the liveability and affordability of accommodation, while developing state-of-the-art operational real estate. As healthcare operators, we also want to be attractive employers.
Outperforming asset class
Our asset class is outperforming on ESG measures, from decarbonisation to social impact and governance, as well as in terms of value.
We have become a voice for the industry and have made a significant impact, creating a collective energy and alignment in the value chain.
Most of all, I am proud of our attitude: we are not driven by power, but are focused on impact, thought leadership and collaboration. In addition to EPRA, we have established strategic partnerships with ARCO and Coliving Ventures.
As co-founder and chair of the SHHA, it is very satisfying to be able to nudge the alignment of the senior housing and healthcare real estate markets. Senior living and healthcare real estate are no longer alternative asset classes, they are mainstream and outperforming on ESG.
Ron van Bloois is co-founder and chair of the Senior Housing & Healthcare Association