Setting the scene for SACSC conference

Amanda Stops, SACSC CEO

The conference, sponsored by Broll Property Group, brings together global and African retail thought leaders to exchange new ideas and best practice for retailers, retail developers and investors, researchers, brokers and property managers.

"Retail is constantly evolving. The industry needs to be agile and adaptable and adjust to changing shopper needs and shifting shopping patterns. The conference provides a platform to swop insights and learn new tactics," says Amanda Stops, CEO of the SACSC.

"In addition to valuable insights on the latest industry trends, this year's research conference will present ground-breaking new ways to use technology smartly to get a real picture of how customers behave in shopping malls and retail stores. A new age of retail analytics is upon us and this is helping the industry make better decisions that support delighting the customer."

A few key picks from the day's programme highlight the depth and breadth of topics to be covered.

Cushman & Wakefield's Yvonne Court, the global property service's firm's Partner: Cross-Border Retail Services, is a specialist in new market entry and location strategy, working closely with global retail teams and alliance partners in the Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) regions. Her presentation on 'A Strategic Approach to New International Markets', promises some key insights into the opportunities for cross-border retail opportunities in southern Africa.

Metrics, tourist retail and shopping centre design also feature on the day's programme. Alteryx business development specialist, Hilton Rossenrode, will speak on 'Retail analytics made visual', describing the use of multi-channel, hyper-local and site selection analytics for retail.

For delegates with an interest in 'Shopping for tourists', the showcase presentation this year will be delivered by Didem Kirsallioba, the senior marketing manager at Forum Istanbul in Turkey, the largest shopping centre in Europe.

Architect and consultant, Clive Rudman, of Integer Retail Lab will tackle 'The future of shopping centre design' as it strives to keep pace with fast-changing shopping and lifestyle trends.

"The goal is for delegates attending the SACSC Research Conference to walk away with fresh ideas, new creative energy and practical ideas that can be put to use," concludes Stops.

For more information, go to www.sacsc.co.za.