Major international and local retail brands are gearing up to take part in The Retail Summit on March 14-15.
This Retail Summit, taking place at Atlantis, The Palm and the recently-launched Atlantis, The Royal, is hoped to become the catalyst for international brands who want to either establish an in-market presence or sell via cross-border e-commerce to the UAE.
CEO and co-founder of The Retail Summit, Gary Thatcher, said: “I am very proud of The Retail Summit team for working so diligently as we enter the final preparations before the event.
“We believe that the third edition is going to be the biggest yet as we draw a big focus on both regional and international connectivity. It is an honour to have His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai in attendance, supporting the way we wish to shape the retail space.”
The high-profile regional and internationally-renowned retailers as well as franchise specialists will provide extensive insights into the successful concepts of international brands, which attendees can interpret locally and roll out in their respective and relevant markets.
In the space of two days, attendees will meet executives from major global retailers including fashion icon Tommy Hilfiger, Michael Ward, CEO of Harrods, Kristina Blahnik, CEO of Manolo Blahnik, Jo Malone, Founder of Jo Loves, David Gandy, Founder, Wellwear, Manju Malhotra, CEO, Harvey Nichols and Tom Athron, CEO of Fortnum & Mason.
Regional franchise specialists such as Chalhoub Group, 6thStreet, Magrabi, Apparel Group, Souq.com, Amazon, Sultan Center Group, Alsulaiman Group, Papa John’s, Majid Al Futtaim, Al Tayer, Al Shaya, Azadea, Kamal Osman Jamjoon, Landmark Group, LIWA, Noon and Namshi will also take part.
The Retail Summit, run in partnership with Dubai Chambers, was set up to give local brands the opportunity to expand into international markets by meeting mentors to widen professional networks and create partnerships, allowing regional companies to scale international heights.
President and CEO of Dubai Chambers, Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, said: “Backed by significant growth in the e-commerce market, Dubai continues to be a competitive destination for retailers and industry stakeholders who look to capitalize on the emirate’s strong and sustainable economic fundamentals, solid digital infrastructure and its thriving business ecosystem.
“We value the contribution of this industry to Dubai’s economy and its image as an international retail hub. Public and private partnerships provide a critical driver for innovation and development in the retail industry. By joining forces, both sectors can leverage their respective strengths to create a more sustainable, competitive, and inclusive retail ecosystem.”
