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–Introductory talk from a Saudi luminary in the world of business and retail, not to be missed!
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–Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 is not just an economic plan; it's a catalyst for a retail transformation as the Kingdom diversifies from oil and drives massive investments in infrastructure and mega-projects. Fueled by rising consumer spending and Vision 2030 initiatives, the Saudi retail market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12% from 2023 to 2030. Additionally, Saudization initiatives are reshaping the workforce, with women's participation increasing by 35% since 2016, and women now accounting for 40% of retail spending. This session will explore how Vision 2030 is creating new opportunities and what this means for the future of both global and local retailers in Saudi Arabia.
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–The luxury personal goods market is expected to reach $392.40 billion by 2030, increasingly driven by millennials and GenZ. To stay ahead, luxury brands are increasingly pushing to balance exclusivity with exceptional personalization and sustainability. With shifting consumer behaviors, technological advancements, and increasing competition, it's crucial for luxury retailers to innovate and adapt to maintain their elite status. This session explores the strategies that luxury brands are employing to stay ahead, engage new generations of consumers, and leverage technological innovations without compromising their heritage and exclusivity.
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–While sustainability is essential for long-term success, many retailers struggle to implement effective ESG practices due to developing global regulations, complex supply chains, and the cost of innovation. With 62% of global consumers willing to pay more for sustainable products, the push for luxury retailers to adopt eco-friendly practices is growing. Luxury brands must identify the best sustainability strategies, from ethical sourcing to circular fashion, while maintaining brand prestige. This session dives into the critical issues retailers face in embracing ESG. Learn how to deliver for people and the planet - balancing profitability with internal and consumer appetite for ethical practices.
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–Global talent development is vital for retailers, especially in the luxury segment, seeking to stay competitive. Companies worldwide are focusing on strategies to attract, develop, and retain top talent. A recent survey suggested that 70% of employees say they would stay longer with a company that has a strong purpose and clear values. Global brands are harnessing this knowledge to attract, train, and retain exceptional talent. In Saudi there are additional developments in terms of the influx of women into the workforce and the Saudization drive impacting retailers in the country. Delve into strategies for aligning talent with your brand’s values to deliver superior customer experiences, drive innovation, and strengthen your market position. Discover how investing in talent translates into tangible benefits for customer engagement and business growth.
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–A chance to meet with speakers, attendees and exhibitors over a tasty buffet lunch
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–As global economies adapt to new realities, consumer behaviours are rapidly evolving. Shoppers expect more choices in how, when, and where they shop. What are the growth opportunities across various market segments, including luxury, mid-tier, and value retail? Additionally, how can retailers navigate economic shifts, leveraging data-driven strategies to sustain growth and enhance customer engagement? Learn from industry leaders about best practices and innovative approaches that can drive your retail business forward in a dynamic global market. This session examines the impact of the macroeconomic landscape on consumer spending and explores these growth opportunities across various market segments.
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–As Vision 2030 drives economic diversification and massive investments into retail infrastructure, international and local brands have unprecedented opportunities to expand into this dynamic market. Success means discovering how to position your brand for sustained growth and market leadership in one of the world's most promising retail environments, including physical retail operations, understanding cultural nuances, market entry strategies, and establishing strong local partnerships. Moreover, there are cost considerations that vary in KSA vs other regions, with higher VAT costs, last-mile delivery accounting for up to 40% of total logistics costs when 70% of Saudi e-commerce consumers expect same-day or next-day delivery. This session explores the strategies local and international retailers are using to optimize this truly exciting market.
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–In this fireside chat, we’ll spotlight the rising stars of Saudi Arabia's fashion scene. Explore how innovative Saudi fashion brands are defining new trends and capturing global attention. Discover the strategies these brands use to blend traditional influences with contemporary styles and navigate the challenges of scaling in a dynamic market. Gain insights from an industry leader on fostering creativity, building international visibility, and leveraging local heritage to create compelling fashion narratives. This discussion will highlight success stories and provide actionable takeaways for emerging designers and established brands alike.
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–In an era of rapid change, global retail CEOs face a complex array of challenges and strategic dilemmas. According to a recent report, 74% of retail CEOs are concerned about how to adapt to rapidly shifting consumer preferences and market conditions. This session dives into the pressing issues that keep top executives awake at night. We’ll explore how evolving consumer behaviors are reshaping long-term strategies, innovative solutions for managing supply chain disruptions, and balancing digital investments with personal customer touchpoints. Join us to uncover actionable insights and strategies tailored for today’s dynamic retail landscape.
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–Grab a coffee and visit our top tier exhibitors in the networking space directly outside the conference rooms.
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–In today's fast-paced retail environment, digital transformation is a critical driver of competitiveness and growth. Yet many retailers are grappling with the complexities of integrating cutting-edge digital technologies with legacy systems. This challenge often leads to stalled projects and missed opportunities. Global spending on retail digital transformation is expected to reach $388 billion by 2026, an immense investment. That said, only 30% of digital transformation efforts succeed in achieving their goals, often due to integration challenges and resistance to change. For those that succeed the rewards are high; retailers that prioritize digital integration report up to a 20% increase in customer satisfaction.
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–Artificial intelligence is no longer just a buzzword; it's a game-changer, inspiring a CAGR of 23% globally for AI in the retail industry between now and 2030. This session cuts through the noise to reveal the tangible ways AI is reshaping the retail landscape, based on high smart device usage, surveillance at physical stores, and government digitization policies. From hyper-personalized shopping journeys to real-time inventory insights, AI is turning data into dollars.
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–As the beauty industry rapidly evolves, understanding how to connect with consumers has never been more critical. Our keynote speaker Mona Kattan, co-founder of Kayali Fragrances, brings her unique perspective on how to build lasting relationships with customers in an increasingly competitive e-commerce landscape. This session will delve into her innovative strategies for engaging with consumers, from leveraging social media for authentic connections to creating memorable online shopping experiences. With the global e-commerce market projected to reach $8 trillion by 2026, discover how brands can harness creativity and technology to meet the expectations of today's discerning shoppers.
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–Grab a coffee and visit our top tier exhibitors in the networking space directly outside the conference rooms.
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–The global retail landscape is undergoing a profound transformation as traditional retailers confront the rapid rise of e-commerce giants. With global e-commerce sales projected to surpass $6.4 trillion by 2024, accounting for nearly 22% of total retail sales, retailers worldwide are working to build effective digital-first strategies. What are the latest challenges, opportunities for collaboration and developments in this most exciting of market segments?
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–As Saudi Arabia's e-commerce market races toward a projected $20 billion by 2025, retailers are harnessing the power of the click and mortar model to create a seamless shopping experience. This session explores how blending online and physical retail environments meets the demands of a young, tech-savvy consumer base. Discover how successful brands utilize digital platforms and physical stores to provide flexible shopping options, from click-and-collect services to interactive in-store experiences. We will also address the unique opportunities and challenges this hybrid model presents for international franchises, independent retailers, and GCC conglomerates in navigating Saudi Arabia's dynamic market.
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–An intimate fireside chat exploring the core principles driving one of fashion’s most iconic brands. Discover how unwavering ambition and creative vision are reshaping brand identity and performance in a competitive landscape. From revitalizing brand’s heritage to embracing innovative fashion trends, transformation and growth. Dive into a conversation on fostering creativity within an established brand, setting bold goals, and navigating challenges to achieve industry-leading success. Gain inspiration and practical wisdom on leading with passion and precision in the ever-evolving world of high fashion
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–In today’s competitive retail landscape, mastering omnichannel integration is a daunting task for many. Despite its importance, 70% of retailers struggle to seamlessly integrate their digital and physical operations, resulting in operational inefficiencies and lost revenue opportunities. This session delves into the essential elements of omnichannel mastery, including supply chain synchronization, unified inventory management, and cross-channel technology integration. Explore strategies for enhancing every customer interaction for consistent experiences across online and in-store. Gain insights from industry leaders on how cohesive personalization efforts can drive loyalty and boost revenue in a competitive marketplace.
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–How can brands maintain their unique identities while delivering a seamless experience across all channels and markets? In today’s retail landscape, successful brands are those that integrate their presence across multiple channels and markets whether at the global or local level and no matter the segment or sub-brand. This session explores the intersection of branding, markets and omnichannel strategies, highlighting how companies can create cohesive customer experiences that resonate across platforms. With consumers expecting personalized interactions, brands must adapt their messaging and offerings to maintain loyalty and engagement whilst never losing sight of their core messaging. Join us as we discuss innovative approaches to brand management in an omnichannel, multi-tiered, cross-market context.
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–In an era where 75% of consumers expect consistent and personalized experiences across all channels, leveraging data-driven personalization is essential for building lasting customer loyalty. However, retailers often face challenges managing separate online and offline customer journeys, resulting in siloed data and inefficiencies. How can retailers utilize data, AI and digital omnichannel tools to create tailored experiences both online and in-store.
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–In a highly competitive retail landscape, it has been found that a whopping 86% of shoppers will leave a brand altogether after just two bad experiences! Creating unforgettable customer experiences is pivotal for driving loyalty and differentiating your brand. From emotional engagement to seamless service and innovative surprises, discover how top retailers are crafting experiences that resonate deeply with customers. Hear actionable strategies to elevate every touchpoint, ensuring your brand leaves a lasting impression that fosters long-term loyalty and advocacy.
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–Gen Z and Gen Alpha are emerging as key consumer groups in the global market, driving 40% of luxury spending. In Saudi Arabia, the statistics are even more striking, with nearly 70% of the population under 35 and an impressive 98.2% smartphone penetration. This session delves into strategies for engaging these generations both locally and internationally, highlighting their preferences for sustainability, digital experiences, and brand authenticity. Discover how luxury retailers can harness data-driven personalization, innovative marketing, and culturally relevant initiatives to cultivate lasting loyalty among the next generation of consumers.
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–Grab a coffee and visit our top tier exhibitors in the networking space directly outside the conference rooms.
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–High-net-worth individuals (HNIs) are transforming the luxury retail scene, becoming the key players in a vibrant marketplace. With a staggering 30% projected growth in their numbers over the next decade, the opportunities for brands to tap into this affluent demographic are immense. This session dives into the dynamics of HNIs, showcasing how countries like Saudi Arabia are becoming attractive hubs for wealth and luxury. Discover innovative strategies to connect with this elite clientele and elevate your brand’s presence in the competitive luxury landscape.
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–Veepee, under Jacques-Antoine Granjon’s leadership, has shattered conventional retail norms to build a truly disruptive business model. Granjon, a pioneer in online retail, turned Veepee into a leading European flash sales platform by reimagining the e-commerce landscape with a unique blend of exclusive, time-limited offers. This session delves into the innovative strategies that propelled Veepee to the forefront of the industry, including dynamic sales tactics, personalized shopping experiences, and a data-driven approach to customer engagement. Discover how these groundbreaking methods can inspire and guide you in crafting a future-proof retail model that stands out in a crowded market. Gain actionable insights into redefining your business strategies and creating a compelling value proposition that resonates with today’s discerning consumers.
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–A chance to meet with speakers, attendees and exhibitors over a tasty buffet lunch
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–Retail spaces are undergoing a transformation, both at the luxury end of the spectrum and in the wider market, with new store designs pushing the boundaries of traditional layouts. Retail store design is evolving rapidly to meet the needs of today’s tech-savvy shoppers with high expectations, and this is especially true for luxury, high-end individuals seeking exclusivity; the ultimate personal service. With 80% of global retailers and 70% of Saudi retailers planning investing in technology to create more interactive shopping experiences, how are these trends transforming retail spaces and how can retailers innovate effectively?
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Grab a coffee and visit our top tier exhibitors in the networking space directly outside the conference rooms.
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–Globally, the relationship between entertainment, retail and hospitality is multifaceted. When harnessed well, it boosts engagement and brand awareness but external branding partnerships can lead to high costs without results if mismanaged or not carefully measured. In Saudi Arabia, the expanding entertainment landscape with mega events like Formula 1, boxing matches, and music festivals intensifies competition for consumer attention. This session explores how both global and local retail brands are innovating to capture the spotlight amidst this surge, discovering strategies for integrating retail with high-profile events, leveraging experiential marketing, brand ambassadors and standing out in a crowded market to engage consumers who are spoiled for choice.
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–As the retail landscape evolves, the belief that bigger is always better is being challenged and the ideal business model for ten- or twenty-years’ time is up for discussion. Small and mid-tier brands are successfully adopting diverse models prioritizing sustainability, value alignment, and customer-centric approaches over sheer scale. We will explore how more agile brands can thrive by focusing on niche markets, alternative models like rental, and personalized experiences that resonate with consumers. Our panel will also discuss how trends such as niche segmentation, circular fashion and personalization can lead to small but mighty customer bases with unparalleled brand loyalty.
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–In a dynamic fashion industry, agility is essential for staying ahead of trends and meeting evolving consumer demands. By 2027 the global market value of 'fast' fashion is forecast to reach a value of approximately $185 billion. Innovative brands are adopting agile methodologies to enhance product development, streamline supply chains and incorporate strategies to rapidly adapt and scale. This session explores how leading fashion innovators implement and respond swiftly to market changes. This is an opportunity to gain insights from industry pioneers who have successfully navigated the complexities of the global fashion landscape through flexibility and continuous innovation.
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–As Saudi Arabia's economy diversifies and grows, homegrown brands are seizing the opportunity to expand beyond national borders. With the Kingdom fostering a business-friendly environment, Saudi brands are poised to make a global impact. This session explores effective strategies for international expansion, discussing how to navigate cultural differences, comply with foreign regulations, and position your brand in competitive global markets. Learn from industry leaders who have successfully scaled their businesses internationally and discover best practices to elevate your brand on the world stage.