Spring Fair has confirmed the first speakers for its Heart of Retail Stage at the 2027 edition, which will take place at NEC Birmingham from 7 to 10 February. The event is intended to bring retail leaders and entrepreneurs together to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing the industry.
The first group includes Dan Finley, chief executive of Debenhams Group; Alan Roper, chief executive of Blue Diamond Garden Centres; Emma Jones CBE, Small Business Commissioner; Helen Dickinson, chief executive of the British Retail Consortium; and retail entrepreneur Theo Paphitis.
Retail leadership and change
Sessions will address Debenhams’ digital transformation, independent retail, leadership, customer experience and the future of the high street. Paphitis will deliver the closing conversation, “A Love Letter to Retail,” on 10 February. The sessions form part of the show’s wider programme.
The programme will cover 10 themes, including sustainability, emerging brands, customer loyalty, AI and technology, business growth and championing independent retailers.
Fay Tranter, event director at Spring Fair, said the programme is intended to feature speakers who can challenge conventional thinking, share their experience and give retailers practical ideas to take away.
Further speakers and programme details are due to be announced in the coming months. Registration is free for retail buyers and industry professionals.