executive summary knight frank and grubb & ellis are pleased to introduce the 2005 global real estate forecast in general prospects across world s commercial markets now appear be brightening improved performance of equity over past year reflects greater business confidence although concerns consumer debt many western nations persist despite usa officially emerging from recession 2001 primary economic powerhouse continues suffer sluggish employment growth a continued imbalance supply demand suitable investment product locations has contributed rising profiles secondary as destinations for capital issue outsourcing will continue attract headlines migration back office jobs west east mirrors manufacturing sector movement last century ensuring significant challenges losing portions industry those growing at rapid pace expansion european union well brisk developing present important opportunities remainder decade contents overview 2 6 industrial 12 retail 17 residential 22 client services 27 appendix 30