The global facilities management (FM) sector is experiencing unprecedented growth, with total spending projected to exceed US $3 trillion by the end of 2026, according to JLL’s Global State of Facilities Management Report 2025. The surge reflects the increasing recognition of FM as a strategic business enabler, rather than a simple cost centre, with organizations balancing operational efficiency, occupant wellbeing, and resilience amid economic volatility.

Eighty-four percent of FM leaders cite budget constraints and rising operational costs as their main concern. In response, 58% of organizations are consolidating contracts to leverage volume buying power, 52% prioritise providers with self-delivery capabilities, and 37% are partnering with service providers to identify joint cost-saving opportunities. This strategic approach is complemented by a strong focus on operational resilience, workplace safety, and occupant experience, especially in mission-critical environments such as data centres, hospitals, and laboratories.

JLL experts highlight the evolution of FM toward human-centric operations, with workplace experience closely linked to employee engagement and organizational performance. Sustainability is also a growing priority, with FM teams tasked with reducing carbon emissions, improving energy efficiency, and supporting occupant wellbeing. However, 30% of organizations report low-to-moderate confidence in safety protocols, indicating persistent vulnerabilities in culture, training, regulatory compliance, and hazard management.

The industry also faces a deepening workforce challenge, with a significant proportion of FM professionals nearing retirement and a shortage of skilled labor, prompting organizations to invest in succession planning, knowledge transfer, cross-training, and technology augmentation. With these strategies, the FM sector is positioned to achieve growth while meeting the demands of a rapidly evolving built environment.

For businesses and FM professionals looking to stay ahead, now is the time to explore innovative solutions, adopt AI-driven technologies, and invest in workforce development to secure long-term success.