Top speaker lineup for retail conference

Amanda Stops

Featuring the industry awards event as well as an exhibition, networking opportunities and a behind-the-scenes tour of the new Mall of Africa, this year’s retail gathering will also provide access to a lineup of thought provoking presentations delivered by some of the biggest names in the industry.

International, local perspectives

Following on from a welcome from Council’s newly appointed president, Jeff Zidel, both Jeffrey Williford from the Disney institute and Bernie Brooks, CEO and MD for Edcon will share their views on and experience with leadership, offering an in-depth perspective of what leadership in retail means.

Magnus Lindkvist, renowned trend spotter and futurologist, will offer some perspective on business trends and growth opportunity, while designer and trend analyst, Dave Nemeth will give the audience a snapshot of where retail is headed and how they can stay ahead.

Bringing technology to the forefront, Innovation Agency’s CEO, Rory Moore will shine a spotlight on innovative initiatives and how retailers can harness the power of the crowd, using digital technology as an aid.

Other speakers include South Africa’s adventurer and motivational speaker Peter van Kets, Taste Holding’s CEO Carlo Gonzago discussing the Starbucks’ journey to South Africa and Renzo Scribante of Rembrothers, who will be sharing the organisation’s story and discussing the impact of the changing food retail landscape in the country today.

Hosted by SACSC and sponsored by Nedbank Corporate and Investment Banking Property Finance, this annual flagship event will feature the latest insights on leading trends, technology and customer engagement as well as provide a meeting place for industry leaders and leading retailers and brands alike.

Commenting on the speaker lineup for the congress, Amanda Stops, SACSC CEO, says, “The programme has been carefully crafted to ensure topics are both relevant and informative to all who attend. Responding to both opportunities and challenges faced by retailers and shopping centres, this year’s congress will address the rapid changes affecting the industry, with particular focus on technology, economic forces and ever-evolving consumer expectations.

“With this programme, we bring a wealth of market-related intelligence and key insights, while highlighting the prominent role the retail industry plays in the development of communities and the ripple effect this has on the economy and the country, as a whole. Most importantly, however, the SACSC Congress aims to bring together retailers and shopping centres professionals from varying backgrounds, providing them with an opportunity to learn from one another, connecting, discussing new ideas and sharing information relevant to their industry.”

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