The SPF delivers six main services for the commercial property industry in Scotland. 

Lobbying

Representing your voice to key political and government figures is the mainstay of our service. We work with our members to develop cogent views on matters affecting our industry, then communicate these effectively to both government and other relevant parties.

We liaise directly with senior government officials, MSPs, MPs and other public authorities. We also ensure the industry has an input to industry and government working groups on specific policy topics, for example in relation to the revision of Scotland’s national planning framework.

We have a strong record of working constructively with the government, though where we disagree with policy decisions, we will make our objections clear and will often suggest alternative ways forward. Further details of this aspect of our work can be found in our Policy views section.

Working with business and professional representatives

We work closely with other major trade associations, such as the British Council for Offices, CBI, Chambers of Commerce, Homes for Scotland, the Scottish Council for Development and Industry, professional bodies including the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, the Royal Town Planning Institute and other key bodies. We provide a list in our Links section.

Events

We organise and arrange high profile and informative events for our members and key stakeholders, such as trade bodies, MSPs and MPs, local authorities, Executive and Agency officials. These are ideal opportunities to directly raise issues with key stakeholders and to network with other industry figures.

Research

We commission research aimed at improving understanding and recognition of the value of the commercial property industry to Scotland’s economic wellbeing and communities. As part of the British Property Federation, the SPF is well placed to work closely with a number of other leading bodies to ensure research is targeted correctly and not duplicated. 

The BPF is a leading member of the Property Industry Alliance, which draws together the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, the Investment Property Forum and the British Council for Offices, enabling the organisations to work closely on research. Further details on our latest research publications and a link to those of the BPF are available in the Research section.

Raising the profile of commercial property

We are working to improve the general understanding of the role of the commercial property industry and, in particular, to raise awareness of its existing and potential contribution to the Scottish economy. We do this by building relationships with key members of the Scottish media, by speaking out on behalf of the industry and by putting journalists and policy-shapers in contact with members who can provide an informed view on specific issues.

Best practice

We support and contribute to the establishment and dissemination of industry best practice, working with professional bodies and regulators. Our commitment to improvements within the industry gives us a powerful voice with those who shape how the market operates and is regulated. More details of relevant best practice and guidance is found in the Publications section.