In an increasingly competitive and demanding sector, digitalising purchasing processes has become a critical success factor in real estate. Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionising how companies approach their supply chains, ushering in a new era of operational efficiency, sustainability, and value creation. At Castro Group, we believe technology must be a strategic ally, so we are integrating AI-based solutions into our purchasing operations to ensure more profitable, responsible, and resilient projects.

Digitalisation and technological innovation are transforming procurement in the real estate sector. At Castro Group, we constantly seek to optimise processes and maximise the value of our operations. Artificial Intelligence (AI) emerges as a strategic factor in improving efficiency, promoting sustainability and creating value throughout the supply chain.

Procurement goes far beyond the simple acquisition of materials and services. It involves a strategic approach directly impacting costs, deadlines, project quality and sustainability. The application of AI in these processes allows:

• Optimised decision-making: AI algorithms analyse large volumes of Big Data to identify pricing patterns, market trends, and cost forecasts, facilitating more strategic negotiations with suppliers.

  Efficient supplier selection: AI automates supplier performance and compliance analysis, helping to choose more reliable and sustainable partners.

  Reducing waste and costs: Predictive models can avoid excessive purchases and optimise the use of materials, reducing costs and minimising environmental impacts.

  Improved risk management: Real-time data analysis allows you to anticipate risks, ensuring greater security in contracts and the supply chain.

Real estate procurement has a direct impact on the profitability of projects, being a key factor in creating value. Through efficient management and advanced technology, it is possible to maximise the return on investment, ensuring better commercial conditions and delivery times and contributing to the project’s financial viability. The transparency and traceability of processes are also significantly increased, allowing rigorous monitoring of the entire supply chain. Improved financial predictability enables more rigorous cost planning, reducing budget deviations and enhancing the liquidity of operations. Additionally, technology facilitates collaboration with suppliers and fosters long-term strategic partnerships, which result in greater operational efficiency and continuous innovation.

Sustainable procurement in real estate: the key to more efficient and certified buildings

The application of sustainable practices throughout all phases of the purchasing process allows the selection of options with a more significant reduction in the carbon footprint and greater energy efficiency. This optimises supply chains, minimising unnecessary transport and the respective CO₂ emissions. Technology also helps minimise waste by predicting material needs, avoiding excess, and promoting the circular economy.

Sustainable procurement plays a crucial role in obtaining certifications such as LEED, WELL, and SmartScore, promoting energy efficiency, reduced water consumption, reduced use of ecological materials, and a lower environmental impact for each project. The careful selection of suppliers and materials aligned with these standards directly contributes to more attractive, efficient and innovative buildings.

AI does not replace procurement professionals’ experience and knowledge but enhances their analysis and decision-making capabilities. At Castro Group, integrating technology into the real estate sector is essential to ensuring competitiveness and innovation. As part of our strategic vision, we are exploring ways to introduce AI into our processes to improve the automation and sustainability of operations, preparing us for market challenges.

Digital transformation in procurement is not a trend — it is a reality that is redefining the standards of the real estate sector. By adopting technologies such as AI, Castro Group positions itself at the forefront of innovation, ensuring greater competitiveness, efficiency and commitment to sustainability. We are building more than just buildings: innovative, responsible solutions that reflect the future we want for our cities.