The retail industry is facing threats and challenges from all directions at the present. Brick-and-mortar stores face ever-increasing competition from eCommerce competitors and face eye-watering utility bills over the winter. Retail as a whole is threatened by a potential recession and significant downturn in consumer spending. The outlook is relatively bleak for many industries over the coming months and years, but retail, as it always does, will find a way to fight back. The future of retail is exciting, with developments changing the way brands connect and interact with consumers. Below are some of the upcoming retail industry events that you might want to attend to broaden your horizons.
eCommerce Expo (28-29 Sep 2022)
Later this month, the UK’s largest and most popular eCommerce exhibition returns to ExCeL London. If you’re in any way involved with eCommerce or are looking to develop your knowledge to help your business make the transition – this is the place to be. Tickets are free if you register in advance and you will be able to network, discuss and learn from some of the brightest minds in the industry. There are nearby London serviced apartments that you may be able to book for your stay.
IRX @ DTX + UCX (12-13 Oct 2022)
Just a few weeks later, the ExCeL will host a triumvirate of events covering everything digital. IRX, or the Internet Retailing Expo, will facilitate an exploration of the rapidly developing digital retail space. Industry leaders, digital architects and eCommerce managers will delve into the topics of the day and provide invaluable insight into how you can prepare your business for the future.
The Retail Conference (8-9 Nov 2022)
The Retail Conference is a smaller event than the exhibitions above but it is another great opportunity to expand your knowledge and understanding of the industry. The two-day event will host several headline speakers, supplemented with opportunities to network and create new relationships with key industry players.
Brands & Retail UK (18-19 Jan 2023)
Early next year, Brands & Retail UK will host its winter conference in London before its flagship summer event later in the year. This event is a unique opportunity to come face to face with some of the biggest retailers and licensees in the country, and you can book a dedicated slot to present your plans.
IRX 2023 (10-11 May)
IRX will return in Spring 2023 for its usual standalone event at NEC Birmingham. This will be a significant gathering of like-minded retail industry leaders, suppliers and renegades. Networking, product showcases, workshops and conferences – this event will have it all! The 2022 event that took place in May was a huge success and many stakeholders will be returning next year to do it all over again.
