World Retail Congress is the most influential and highest profile gathering of the retail industry across all sectors at global level.
Against the background of the first economic crisis of the global era and the resulting uncertainty in many markets, it is clear that retailers can no longer operate or think in isolation. Launched in 2007 the Congress has become the annual platform for the most senior executives within the retail industry to come together to share best practice, make lasting business contacts and exchange ideas on the most crucial global issues.Over the last two years the Congress has brought together over 2000 attendees, including retailers and their suppliers from over 50 countries and active in more than 90. In only two years the event has attracted a prestigious line-up of world-class speakers, including Anders Dalvig of Ikea, Mickey Drexler of J.Crew, Jose Luis Duran of Carrefour, Sir Philip Green of Arcadia, Sir Terry Leahy of Tesco, Motoya Okada of AEON, BS Nagesh of Shoppers’ Stop and Mike Ullman of JCPenney.The 2010 Congress will take place in Berlin on 21-23 April. With its reputation and influence growing around the world it is set to continue to attract industry leaders, in even greater numbers. Created after extensive consultation with the industry, and validated by the 2009 Congress Advisory Board, the 2010 Congress programme will focus on the core issues pre-occupying retail boardrooms around the world. A line-up of inspirational speakers will discuss global critical issues including; how to drive growth in international markets, the science behind innovation, the people agenda, e-commerce, the changing consumer and maximising business efficiencies.As part of the continuing development and improvement of the Congress, there will be a number of new additions to the agenda that are all designed to enhance the delegate experience. These include: Networking lunches at the CongressSpecial Gala Dinner at the Palau Naçional, Barcelona, for all Congress attendees Showcase of some of the world’s leading retail service providers Gallery displaying cutting-edge retail innovations
