QX Hosts Student Accommodation Insights Evening 2025 at The Shard

The second edition of the QX Student Accommodation Insights Evening (QX SAIE 2025) took place on 4 Feb 2025, bringing together PBSA leaders, investors, and decision-makers from across the Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) sector.

Held at The Shard, London, this exclusive event provided a platform for in-depth discussions, expert insights, and high-value networking— all against the backdrop of one of the city’s most iconic venues.

Exploring the Future of PBSA

The panel discussion was the focal point of the evening, featuring insights from a distinguished group of industry leaders:

• Joe Lister – CEO, Unite Group Plc
• Jessica Hardman – President, British Property Federation (BPF) & CEO & Co-Founder, Aboria Capital
• Richard Simpson – CEO, Olympian Homes
• Fred Lerche-Lerchenborg – CEO, Lavanda
• Peter Lynch – CPO, Cardinal Group Companies
• Philip Hillman – Senior Consultant – Living Real Estate Sectors, QX Global Group (Chair of the discussion)

The discussion centred around the evolving PBSA landscape, emerging trends, and industry challenges, with key takeaways including:

• The role of AI and technology in PBSA – From operational efficiencies to enhancing student experiences, technology is reshaping the sector.
• Shifting student expectations and affordability concerns – The demand for flexible tenancies, service-driven accommodation, and affordability solutions continues to grow.
• Investment trends in PBSA – With evolving economic conditions, investors are weighing the risks and rewards of refurbishing older stock versus new developments.
• The future of the sector – PBSA’s convergence with Co-living and PRS, the impact of government policies, and global investment appetite were key points of discussion.

A Valuable Platform for Industry Networking

Beyond the panel discussion, QX SAIE 2025 provided an exceptional opportunity for industry professionals to connect, exchange ideas, and build relationships. With a strong presence of leaders from across the PBSA ecosystem—including investors, developers, operators, and service providers—the evening fostered meaningful conversations and new business opportunities.

Set against the stunning views from the 24th floor of The Shard, the event created a dynamic environment for collaboration, where attendees explored shared challenges, discussed sector developments, and strengthened professional networks.

Continuing the Conversation

As PBSA continues to evolve, collaboration and knowledge-sharing remain essential. Events like QX SAIE reflect QX Global Group’s commitment to facilitating industry dialogue and fostering strategic partnerships.

Mahesh Jain, Group CEO, QX Global Group, commented:
“At QX, we believe that knowledge-sharing and collaboration are key to shaping the future of the PBSA sector. QX SAIE is more than just an event—it’s a platform where industry leaders come together to discuss trends, challenges, and opportunities that drive student living forward. Seeing so many decision-makers and innovators in one room, exchanging ideas, was truly inspiring.”

With yet another successful edition completed, QX SAIE is fast becoming a key event in the PBSA industry calendar. While no announcements have been made just yet, one thing is certain—the conversation doesn’t stop here.

📸 Stay tuned for event highlights and photos.

Originally published Feb 05, 2025 03:02:40, updated Feb 05 2025

Topics: Announcements