The next edition of Spring Fair, taking place 4-7 February 2024 at the NEC, Birmingham, will bring three insightful content stages with the latest retail trends, keynotes from experts and invaluable masterclass knowledge.
Debuting at the show, Trend Talks in partnership with forecast partners The Future Collective, is dedicated to giving the most noteworthy trend-led industry forecasts. The go-to stage allows visitors to discover content from future forecasters and creators including Kantar Insights, HappyHQ and brand experience consultancy, The Ready House, as well as offering a launchpad for the new Pitch Live Dragon’s Den-style feature.
Talking daily, Kate Shepherd and Matt Parry, Co-Founders of The Future Collective will touch on topics such as the ‘Retail Design for Better – A Manifesto for positive change’, ‘The Future of Luxury Retail’, ’The Future of the Post-Commute Economy’ and ‘The Future of Global Retail Trends’.
Not to be missed, ’The Future of the Post-Commute Economy’ will explore how retail formats must evolve in response to the changing dynamics of work and life. In this post-commute economy, the retailers who will flourish are those who view these changes not as obstacles but as opportunities to innovate and reconnect with their communities in more meaningful ways.
For visitors wanting to find out more about the luxury sector, ‘The Future of Luxury Retail’ will explore the newly emerging trends that are reshaping the sector as Kate and Matt discuss how to prepare, embrace and adapt to the future of luxury. Their ‘Future of Global Retail Trends’ briefing will provide an insightful dive into the evolution of some of the most influential themes and transitions in retail strategy and design. They will discuss the rise of the awe-inspiring Landmark flagship stores and curated VIP salons and examine the blend of art and science as advances in AI transform the role and reach of the store.
Louisa Mordaunt, Founder of I Love My Job and Janine Jacobs, Co-Founder of HappyHQ will present a thought-provoking trend talk titled ‘How Gen Z is Reshaping the Way We Work’. The audience will discover the impact of Gen Z work priorities on productivity and company performance and learn how companies can rethink the status quo to meet their needs. From redefining success to embracing work-life integration, this talk explores the key trends shaping the future of work. Visitors will gain insights and practical strategies for creating a workplace that stays competitive in a rapidly evolving world.
Embark on a transformative journey with retail experience consultant Jim Thompson, Managing Director of 20.20 Design. ‘The Art of The Customer Experiences’ will explore the intersection of in-store experience, changing consumer behaviours and the profound impact of individuality and personalisation in tailoring customer experiences. Learn how strategic design choices can reshape the sensory touch-points of a brand and drive adventurous purchasing behaviours.
For buyers and retailers wanting to find out more on inspiring retail sustainability, join Helena Mansell-Stopher, CEO – Products Change as she discusses the cutting-edge trends and emerging products shaping the retail sectors future and reducing its environmental impact. ‘Sustainable Trends Unwrapped’ will show how these advancements not only contribute to a greener future but also open exciting opportunities for purpose-driven success. Founder & Managing Director of The Ready House, Koral Ibrahim will take to the Trends Talk Stage with a presentation on ‘Reimagining Retail Through The Art of Placemaking’.
From the revival of high streets, intricacies of local cultural fabric and utilising data insights, this thought-provoking session will enlighten thought leadership and the future of placemaking in retail. Be prepared to gain actionable insights that will reshape your perspective on creating vibrant and engaging retail spaces. Louisa Mordaunt of I Love My Job and Daniel Fagan, Director of Supply Chain at Talking Tables Ltd will take to the stage to uncover the process, opportunities, and benefits to acquiring B-Corp status in their talk Understanding B-Corp – a Social and Environment Impact.
On Sunday, Monday and Tuesday visitors can join the finalists of Pitch Live on the Trend Talks stage for a Dragons’ Den-style pitching session of new and innovative products and services to be judged by top industry professionals and our retail audience. Finalists to be announced soon.
Sip & Shop: Spring Fair’s Happy Hour will follow with an opportunity to relax, chat with peers and celebrate the dynamic spirit of our industry. Complimentary drinks will be served at Trend Talks and various other locations offering the perfect opportunity to unwind and toast to a successful year ahead.
On Wednesday, The Future Collective take over the Trend Talks stage with a curated series of sessions focused on Retail Design For a Better Future: A Manifesto for Positive Change with heavyweight speakers including Nick Reed, founder of NEEM London, Ali Munro and Nick Munro from Butterfly.
The latest schedule can be viewed here:
