Phew... the last few weeks have been a frenzied mix of hotels, events, planes and very little sleep. That means only one thing - it has been the travelling season!
November was a month where hectic would not do the schedule justice. Upon returning from South Africa near the beginning of the month I had a weekend to pack before I headed off to MAPIC. Quickly following this I had to prepare for three weeks away from the office. My first stop was Dubai in the UAE for the REcon Middle East and North Africa event. Then I was onto Beijing in China for the REcon Asia Conference, and then I was back to Dubai for the Future Retail event. It may be the most tiring time of year but the people, surroundings, events and opportunities make it more than worthwhile.
Now, after those three weeks and three events, two countries and two cities, I am back on home soil for the festive celebrations, although a build up to Christmas at home can be just as manic as travelling around the world I'm sure you'll agree.
The travelling really began with what was for me a short trip across the channel to Cannes for the MAPIC showcase, which this year took place in an atmosphere of growing optimism amongst the 8,300 delegates from over 70 countries. The huge event this year focused on omni-channel retailing strategies, the importance of leisure facilities in shopping malls, which was emphasized with the common use of the phrase retailtainment during the event, and the growth of retail real estate opportunities in prime locations and certain second-tier cities. Other highlights at the event included the MAPIC awards where this year the UK won big, and the highly anticipated opening cocktail party which offered a high-profile networking event which was open to all MAPIC participants.
After a couple of days at home following MAPIC, I was on the move again and heading off to Dubai for the REcon MENA event, which was the preeminent educational and networking conference for shopping centre industry professionals, retailers and owners in the region for 2013. The event examined how shopping centres in the MENA region remained resilient during the recession amid a changing financial climate. The conference also featured intense pre-conference workshops, conference sessions and panel discussions by industry experts and professionals that know the business inside and out.
After this event I was back on the plane and off to Beijing for the REcon Asia event which saw the largest gathering of industry professionals in the fastest-growing retail market in the world. The conference gave the ideal venue to discuss leasing opportunities, make deals and network with key decision makers. The program featured speakers from four continents who spoke about the pertinent issues affecting the futures of our business. The event also saw the 6th annual Asia-Pacific Shopping Center awards.
My final stop took me back to Dubai for the Future Retail event. In only its 2nd year the Future Retail event focused on the challenges faced by retailers looking to expand within the Middle East and North Africa. The event, after doing extensive research prior to the conference, focused on four main streams - 'Business Models', 'Location and Traffic', 'Customer Experience' and 'Marketing and E-tailing' to maximise the potential of this event.
Looking ahead into the New Year, the deadline for nominations for the Global RLI Awards 2014 expires on the 31st January 2014. Ensure you send your nomination across by then and don't miss out on the esteemed Global RLI Awards, which next year will be in its 9th year and will take place on the 5th June in the grand setting of the Natural History Museum. To book a table at this must-attend award ceremony just visit www.rli.uk.com/awards/2014/ and guarantee you and your company's seats NOW.
On the topic of RLI in 2014, let me take this opportunity to announce the newest additions to the RLI Connect 2014 event, Saburrito's, Ralph Lauren and Alshaya are the most recent retailers to have signed up to the ever increasing list of attendees. Expanded to take place over two days on the 4th and 5th June at Chelsea Football Club, with an early finish on the 5th to allow you to get ready for our awards, RLI Connect 2014 promises to be bigger and better than our inaugural RLI Connect event which took place this year. Take this chance to book your place now by visiting www.rliconnect.com and sign up to the must-attend deal-making event of 2014.
As we all make the final preparations for the Christmas holidays, myself and the RLI team would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year which will include the 100th issue of RLI, the world's only global retail and leisure magazine. I hope you all enjoy the break and come back re-invigorated for the year ahead.
Till next year...
Thursday 19 December 2013
Friday 25 October 2013
Travelling to France, Brazil and South Africa - And that's just the magazine...
It's been a manic few weeks here at the RLI office, and the same for me juggling work with attending numerous events which have taken me around the globe in the past month. Back in the office, we have just put the finishing touches to our biggest magazine of the year, our MAPIC special, and we have sent it off to the printers ready to go in all the delegate bags at MAPIC 2013.
I have been back in the UK for over a week now, and it has been strange to sleep in the same place for more than one night at a time, with the recent travelling I have felt like I have been on a worldwide retail tour! My first stop took me to the CNIT La Défense Conference Centre in Paris for the World Retail Congress, which took place between the 7th and the 9th of October. At this years event, the first World Retail Congress event in a flurry of them worldwide, the October issue of the RLI magazine was on show throughout. Immediately following a day at this event I was back on a plane and heading to the New Munich Trade Fair Centre in, well you guessed it, Munich. The event was one of the largest on the real estate calendar and it was of course Expo Real, which this year took place between the 7th and the 9th of October. This year the RLI magazine enhanced its presence at this premium event with distribution racks in between all the exhibition halls giving unrivalled coverage to our advertisers and readers globally. Then from here I was on the move again, and this flight was not a quick hop over to another European country but a flight to Dubai for the Cityscape Global event. Held at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre over the 8th, 9th and 10th of October, it is a must-attend industry event that also had the RLI magazine on show. As you can tell, where I go, the magazine tends to follow! The only downside to this hectic schedule of visiting three countries in just five days was the fact that I could not spend as much time as I would have liked at each event, as all of these events coincided with one another, this arranging of events is hopefully something that organisers can improve upon for next year.
Once I arrived back at the office it was all systems go on the MAPIC edition of RLI, our biggest issue of the year. Included in this bumper magazine is a wide array of features, including a first for RLI, a gate-fold for Marina Home Interiors with an additional profile on pages 4-5. The cover for this MAPIC issue is Fashion House, as we discuss with the Managing Director Brendan O'Reilly how the recently opened Fashion House Moscow has been performing, and what is next in the pipeline for Fashion House. The magazine then opens with a who's who page featuring Jean-Claude Biver, CEO of Hublot. The huge MAPIC magazine has several lead interviews, including Bloomingdales, Blue Inc and Mothercare. Also in the magazine we have a 2-part special feature on Shopping Centre Management with opinion pieces by Eileen Connelly, and one from Richard Bailey of intu. With this issue being the MAPIC issue, it would not have been right to complete the magazine without an event feature on MAPIC 2013. There will be a MAPIC insight and a detailed 2-page conference schedule included.
Having completed the magazine and sent it off to the printers, the finished product will be on show at more retail events across the globe. The magazine will be at two huge World Retail Congress events that are taking place for the very first time this year. The first of these events is the World Retail Congress Latin America, which takes place at the WTC Sheraton in Sao Paulo, Brazil on the 31st October and the 1st November. The second event is the World Retail Congress Africa which is taking place at The Maslow in Johannesburg, South Africa over the 4th to the 6th of November. After these events the magazine will then be placed in all of the delegate bags at MAPIC 2013 as well as being on show throughout the biggest retail real estate event on the calendar. Taking place from the 13th to the 15th of November at the Palais des Festivals in Cannes, MAPIC 2013 is going to be a cracking event, and it is one I am very much looking forward to. I have booked my diary out so it will be a whirlwind few days. I am looking to hold several meetings at MAPIC with developers and retailers for next years RLI Connect which is already receiving a lot of enquiries, feel free to make an appointment by sending me an email. I am also holding a panel session on the opening day of MAPIC on Wednesday 13th November from 14:30 to 15:15 entitled "Middle East Miracle", and the session will focus on how the Middle East has emerged as a key market for retailers across the globe.
As for me, I'll soon be heading out to South Africa to be present at the first World Retail Congress Africa event, then I have the weekend to pack for MAPIC where I will hopefully see and catch up with all of you.
See you on my travels...
Thursday 26 September 2013
Let the Whirlwind Commence...
A very exciting and hectic time of the year is once again upon me. After a couple of so-called quiet summer months, I have packed my bags and am off around the globe on a non-stop retail real estate event tour, and as always I am very eager to get cracking.
I have very much enjoyed the summer months; some holiday time with the family has been excellent, and it has also allowed me the chance to recharge in preparation for the busy build up to Christmas. However, as the summer slowly disappears, there is the extra surge of adrenaline and the feeling of exhilaration as the travelling season clicks into gear.
I warmed up for the schedule ahead with a recent trip to the BCSC Annual Showcase with two of my colleagues. This year, for the first time, the event was held in London at the Olympia. The switch to London appeared to have had the desired effect as the event saw 2,500 delegates make their way to Kensington. The event also marked the launch of a major international retailer programme which targets brands that are not yet active in the UK market. To find out more about this event you can read the full RLI Review of the BCSC Annual Showcase in our October issue.
Back at the office, the finishing touches were applied to the October issue of RLI before I jumped on the plane to Mumbai. Thankfully I managed to get on the plane and get to India thanks to some last minute help regarding my visa!
This most recent RLI magazine sees several exciting features included, with the regular 'Voyager' section focusing on Central Eastern Europe this month, which examines the retail development activity in selected city markets. Other features include a look at Hamleys, as we talk to CEO Gudjon Reynisson about the remarkable international expansion drive they are currently in. Also in this issue, RLI have an in-depth look at a leading hotel management company, Onyx Hospitality Group, and speak to CEO Peter Henley about how they intend to expand after recent success. On top of all this we have an excellent RLI Special Feature on 'Retail in Stadia', which, with the 2014 World Cup in Brazil edging nearer and nearer, looks in-depth at the evolution of the relationship between retail and shopping in and around stadiums.
Now that the first leg of my travelling is nearly complete, having attended the Indian Retail Forum, I will return from India over the weekend. However, I will only be on British shores for a few days, and I can tell you now that those days will be hectic as we begin to put our bumper MAPIC issue together. It is now the last chance for anyone wishing to participate in our most sought-after issue of the year, our November issue, to get in touch. We are in all the delegate bags at MAPIC 2013 and on show at the World Retail Congress Latin America and World Retail Congress Africa events. If anyone is interested please contact the RLI team on +44 (0)1706 212200 or email me at jayne.rafter@rli.uk.com and I look forward to hearing from you.
Following the few days in the UK working on the MAPIC issue, I head off again on a trip that will see me take in three countries in just five days as I make my way from one event to another. First up is Paris for the World Retail Congress event, then Munich for Expo Real and then finally I will be in Dubai for Cityscape Global. It can be a gruelling schedule, but its more than worth it all for the fantastic networking opportunities in such a short space of time so I say bring it on.
Will be back soon; see you on my travels...
I have very much enjoyed the summer months; some holiday time with the family has been excellent, and it has also allowed me the chance to recharge in preparation for the busy build up to Christmas. However, as the summer slowly disappears, there is the extra surge of adrenaline and the feeling of exhilaration as the travelling season clicks into gear.
I warmed up for the schedule ahead with a recent trip to the BCSC Annual Showcase with two of my colleagues. This year, for the first time, the event was held in London at the Olympia. The switch to London appeared to have had the desired effect as the event saw 2,500 delegates make their way to Kensington. The event also marked the launch of a major international retailer programme which targets brands that are not yet active in the UK market. To find out more about this event you can read the full RLI Review of the BCSC Annual Showcase in our October issue.
Back at the office, the finishing touches were applied to the October issue of RLI before I jumped on the plane to Mumbai. Thankfully I managed to get on the plane and get to India thanks to some last minute help regarding my visa!
This most recent RLI magazine sees several exciting features included, with the regular 'Voyager' section focusing on Central Eastern Europe this month, which examines the retail development activity in selected city markets. Other features include a look at Hamleys, as we talk to CEO Gudjon Reynisson about the remarkable international expansion drive they are currently in. Also in this issue, RLI have an in-depth look at a leading hotel management company, Onyx Hospitality Group, and speak to CEO Peter Henley about how they intend to expand after recent success. On top of all this we have an excellent RLI Special Feature on 'Retail in Stadia', which, with the 2014 World Cup in Brazil edging nearer and nearer, looks in-depth at the evolution of the relationship between retail and shopping in and around stadiums.
Now that the first leg of my travelling is nearly complete, having attended the Indian Retail Forum, I will return from India over the weekend. However, I will only be on British shores for a few days, and I can tell you now that those days will be hectic as we begin to put our bumper MAPIC issue together. It is now the last chance for anyone wishing to participate in our most sought-after issue of the year, our November issue, to get in touch. We are in all the delegate bags at MAPIC 2013 and on show at the World Retail Congress Latin America and World Retail Congress Africa events. If anyone is interested please contact the RLI team on +44 (0)1706 212200 or email me at jayne.rafter@rli.uk.com and I look forward to hearing from you.
Following the few days in the UK working on the MAPIC issue, I head off again on a trip that will see me take in three countries in just five days as I make my way from one event to another. First up is Paris for the World Retail Congress event, then Munich for Expo Real and then finally I will be in Dubai for Cityscape Global. It can be a gruelling schedule, but its more than worth it all for the fantastic networking opportunities in such a short space of time so I say bring it on.
Will be back soon; see you on my travels...
Friday 6 September 2013
Building to BCSC and Beyond
Welcome back everyone, it appears summer is now officially over as we roll into September, well it certainly is here in the UK judging by the skies. I hope you all managed to make excellent use of the summer months and enjoyed some rest and relaxation. I managed to get away to Dubai and Egypt to recharge the batteries and spend some time with the family; some work was involved in both trips, but thankfully not too much.
Coming back into the office, there is lots of buzz and excitement as the retail event calendar kicks into overdrive. In the build up to Christmas my schedule will be more packed than my suitcase coming back from holiday.
In the short term, my immediate focus is the upcoming BCSC Showcase event taking place next week at the London Olympia from the 11-12th September, where RLI is a Media Partner for the event and the September issue of RLI will be on show throughout. Once I return from London I will have a few days grace before the travelling schedule begins.
First off I will be in Dubai on the 20th September for a few days of meetings and catch-ups. In Dubai, the RLI magazine will be on show at the Franchise UAE Expo 2013 on the 25-26th September, which is taking place at the Al Bustan Rotana Hotel. The RLI magazine will also be on show at the Retail Matchmaking Event 2013, which is being held at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Zagreb on the 25th September. I will then be heading over to Mumbai for the India Retail Forum, which will be taking place at The Renaissance Hotel from the 25-26th September, again the RLI magazine will be on show at the event. At this event, I am delighted to say I am conducting two panel sessions. On day one, I will be moderating a panel session entitled 'Understanding Retail's Greatest Growth Opportunity at the Top of the Economic Pyramid - For Premium, 'Bridge to Luxury' and Airport Retail'. This will take place from 15:30-16:45. The second panel session will take place on day two from 14:15-15:30 and is entitled 'Retail Impressions: International Brands' Perspective of India'.
During October and November the event train keeps on running for me, RLI and the rest of the retail community. Throughout these months the RLI magazine will be on show at several further events. The beginning of October sees the next issue of RLI on show at Expo Real, which takes place between the 7th and the 9th at New Munich Trade Fair Centre. Next up is the World Retail Congress, also held between the 7th and the 9th October at the CNIT LA Défense Conference Centre in Paris. The next event will be the first ever World Retail Congress Latin America, taking place on the 31st October and the 1st November, which will be held at the WTC Sheraton in Sao Paulo. Following this the magazine will be on show at another world's first, the World Retail Congress Africa event, which takes place at The Maslow in Johannesburg between the 4th and 6th November.
After this comes MAPIC 2013, happening between the 13th and the 15th November at the Palais des Festivals in Cannes, this event promises to be the retail real estate highlight of the year. At this event the huge, 106 page November issue of RLI will be placed in all of the delegate bags. As well as this RLI is once again co-organising a special conference session with Reed Midem. The session is entitled "Middle East Miracle" and it will examine how the Middle East has emerged as a key market for retailers across the globe. The session is scheduled for Wednesday 13th November from 14:30-15:15.
Following MAPIC 2013, I will be heading off to attend RECon Middle East & North Africa 2013 between the 24th and the 26th of November which is to be held at The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi. The magazine will be in the delegate bags at this event, I am also co-organising a panel session for the topic 'The Middle East - A Passion for Brands and a Blaze of Opportunity', (time and date to be confirmed). On top of this, RLI and the MECSC are co-organising a retailer's cocktail party on Sunday 24th November at RECon MENA. If anyone is interested in attending the party and would like an invitation, then please get in touch.
Moving into December, I will be attending the RECon Asia Conference which takes place on 2-3rd December at the China National Convention Center in Beijing. The RLI magazine will also be on show at this event.
If anyone is interested in participating in any of these panel sessions, or would like some more information on any of the panel sessions or events mentioned, please get in touch by ringing me on +44 (0)1706 212200 or by emailing me at jayne.rafter@rli.uk.com, and I look forward to hearing from you.
Looking further ahead and into the New Year, RLI Connect 2014 is gathering pace every day. We already have Sands Retail signed on as Headline Sponsor and Thor Equities as Gold Sponsor. Our Silver Sponsorship is still available, but make sure you enquire quickly to ensure you do not miss out on the fantastic opportunities this sponsorship package can offer you. We have new retailers joining RLI Connect 2014 all the time; the most recent are Causses, a F&B outlet from France, and Dubai Holding Group, a large franchise operator from the UAE. I am also pleased to announce that TriGranit Management Corporation have become the latest developer to book a meeting room package at RLI Connect 2014. On top of this, they have also booked a table of ten for the Global RLI Awards 2014.
After a successful first event, RLI Connect 2014 has been extended to run over two days on the 4-5th June 2014 at Stamford Bridge, the home of Chelsea Football Club. There will be a slightly earlier finish on the 5th; this will allow everyone a chance to get ready before the Global RLI Awards 2014 that will take place on the evening of the 5th June at the Natural History Museum. For booking details or any further information on either of these events please get in touch with me, or email the RLI team at info@rli.uk.com
See you on my travels...
Coming back into the office, there is lots of buzz and excitement as the retail event calendar kicks into overdrive. In the build up to Christmas my schedule will be more packed than my suitcase coming back from holiday.
In the short term, my immediate focus is the upcoming BCSC Showcase event taking place next week at the London Olympia from the 11-12th September, where RLI is a Media Partner for the event and the September issue of RLI will be on show throughout. Once I return from London I will have a few days grace before the travelling schedule begins.
First off I will be in Dubai on the 20th September for a few days of meetings and catch-ups. In Dubai, the RLI magazine will be on show at the Franchise UAE Expo 2013 on the 25-26th September, which is taking place at the Al Bustan Rotana Hotel. The RLI magazine will also be on show at the Retail Matchmaking Event 2013, which is being held at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Zagreb on the 25th September. I will then be heading over to Mumbai for the India Retail Forum, which will be taking place at The Renaissance Hotel from the 25-26th September, again the RLI magazine will be on show at the event. At this event, I am delighted to say I am conducting two panel sessions. On day one, I will be moderating a panel session entitled 'Understanding Retail's Greatest Growth Opportunity at the Top of the Economic Pyramid - For Premium, 'Bridge to Luxury' and Airport Retail'. This will take place from 15:30-16:45. The second panel session will take place on day two from 14:15-15:30 and is entitled 'Retail Impressions: International Brands' Perspective of India'.
During October and November the event train keeps on running for me, RLI and the rest of the retail community. Throughout these months the RLI magazine will be on show at several further events. The beginning of October sees the next issue of RLI on show at Expo Real, which takes place between the 7th and the 9th at New Munich Trade Fair Centre. Next up is the World Retail Congress, also held between the 7th and the 9th October at the CNIT LA Défense Conference Centre in Paris. The next event will be the first ever World Retail Congress Latin America, taking place on the 31st October and the 1st November, which will be held at the WTC Sheraton in Sao Paulo. Following this the magazine will be on show at another world's first, the World Retail Congress Africa event, which takes place at The Maslow in Johannesburg between the 4th and 6th November.
After this comes MAPIC 2013, happening between the 13th and the 15th November at the Palais des Festivals in Cannes, this event promises to be the retail real estate highlight of the year. At this event the huge, 106 page November issue of RLI will be placed in all of the delegate bags. As well as this RLI is once again co-organising a special conference session with Reed Midem. The session is entitled "Middle East Miracle" and it will examine how the Middle East has emerged as a key market for retailers across the globe. The session is scheduled for Wednesday 13th November from 14:30-15:15.
Following MAPIC 2013, I will be heading off to attend RECon Middle East & North Africa 2013 between the 24th and the 26th of November which is to be held at The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi. The magazine will be in the delegate bags at this event, I am also co-organising a panel session for the topic 'The Middle East - A Passion for Brands and a Blaze of Opportunity', (time and date to be confirmed). On top of this, RLI and the MECSC are co-organising a retailer's cocktail party on Sunday 24th November at RECon MENA. If anyone is interested in attending the party and would like an invitation, then please get in touch.
Moving into December, I will be attending the RECon Asia Conference which takes place on 2-3rd December at the China National Convention Center in Beijing. The RLI magazine will also be on show at this event.
If anyone is interested in participating in any of these panel sessions, or would like some more information on any of the panel sessions or events mentioned, please get in touch by ringing me on +44 (0)1706 212200 or by emailing me at jayne.rafter@rli.uk.com, and I look forward to hearing from you.
Looking further ahead and into the New Year, RLI Connect 2014 is gathering pace every day. We already have Sands Retail signed on as Headline Sponsor and Thor Equities as Gold Sponsor. Our Silver Sponsorship is still available, but make sure you enquire quickly to ensure you do not miss out on the fantastic opportunities this sponsorship package can offer you. We have new retailers joining RLI Connect 2014 all the time; the most recent are Causses, a F&B outlet from France, and Dubai Holding Group, a large franchise operator from the UAE. I am also pleased to announce that TriGranit Management Corporation have become the latest developer to book a meeting room package at RLI Connect 2014. On top of this, they have also booked a table of ten for the Global RLI Awards 2014.
After a successful first event, RLI Connect 2014 has been extended to run over two days on the 4-5th June 2014 at Stamford Bridge, the home of Chelsea Football Club. There will be a slightly earlier finish on the 5th; this will allow everyone a chance to get ready before the Global RLI Awards 2014 that will take place on the evening of the 5th June at the Natural History Museum. For booking details or any further information on either of these events please get in touch with me, or email the RLI team at info@rli.uk.com
See you on my travels...
Wednesday 24 July 2013
2013 Part Two - Dubai and Onwards
After an incredible first half of the year, which culminated with our RLI Connect event and Global RLI Awards in London, you could be forgiven for thinking we would ease up on the accelerator; this is not the case here at the RLI offices. While people are using the summer months to recharge the batteries and take some personal time (myself included), we are working towards a massive September issue and the mammoth edition that will be the November issue of RLI.
Before this however I am heading to Dubai on Wednesday, and am very much looking forward to spending some time with the family and the sunshine, despite the heatwave in the UK I have missed most of it being in the office!!! It is not all play and relaxation on this trip however, as it presents a fantastic opportunity to meet up with friends and associates in the Emirates, and I have some important meetings planned whilst I am out there.
Back here at the office, we are in the process of putting the September issue together, whilst gearing up for the biggest issue of the year in November. which will once again be in all the delegate bags at MAPIC 2013, this huge 106 page issue will be full to the brim with articles, news, a preview of the MAPIC event, and lots of advertising space that is being taken quickly. To include your company in this pivotal issue get in touch at jayne.rafter@rli.uk.com or ring +44 (0)1706 212200
MAPIC, as the world's largest Retail Real Estate event, is a huge occasion for everyone in the industry, and this is no different for myself. As well as utilizing all the possibilities at the event, RLI is once again co-organising a special Conference session with Reed Midem for this year's MAPIC which takes place between the 13-15 November in Cannes. The session is entitled "Middle East Miracle" and it will examine how the Middle East has emerged as a key market for retailers across the world. Retail has become one of the fastest growing industries in the region for the past few years. The shopping centre industry in particular is experiencing unprecedented growth, and the Miracle of Dubai has caught the attention of the world's leading retailers, not forgetting the other Emirates now looking to replicate similar offerings. Not only that, in terms of investments and revenue generation, the Middle East is one of the world's most desirable retail environments made attractive by favourable government policy frameworks and active participation by the private sector.
Within this panel session, we will take a look at Entrepreneurship, challenges and opportunities in the region. This session is scheduled for Wednesday 13 November from 14:30 to 15:15.
MAPIC is not the only time I am holding a panel session in this flurry of events towards the end of the year. I will also be hosting a panel session at the India Retail Forum which takes place on the 25-26 September. This session is entitled "Making India the Next Big Player in Luxury Retail - Charming the Snakes and Scaling the Ladders". The session will allow luxury giants to share their perspectives on what they perceive of the Indian market, how to grow the luxury segment, and understand from the other retailers the peculiarities of the Indian consumer, and what they should do differently from what they have been doing. This session will take place on Wednesday 25 September from 14:15 to 15:30.
After my summer break to Dubai, the pace picks up again and the months leading up to Christmas will be a whirlwind of travel and exciting worldwide retail events. Before they all take place let me take this opportunity to brief you on the most important events on the retail calendar, and how RLI is involved in them.
BCSC Showcase - 11-12 September: -
The showcase is heading in an exciting new direction for 2013, taking place at the London Olympia it will be exactly what the delegates have asked for. This is the UK's largest business-to-business networking event for the retail and retail property industry.
RLI Involvement: Media Partner, magazine on show throughout the event
Retail Matchmaking Event 2013 - 25 September: -
Taking place at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Zagreb, Croatia, Retail Matchmaking is Central Eastern Europe's deal-making event of the year. The event connects the dots between leasing professionals and global retail brands ready to expand throughout the region via pre-arranged meetings in one place on one day.
RLI Involvement: Global Media Partner, magazine on show throughout the event
India Retail Forum - 25-26 September: -
To be held at the Mumbai Renaissance Hotel, the IRF will be built around engaging topics such as retail brand building, retail real estate, reinventing the physical store experience, e-commerce, social media marketing, FDI in retail, the changing decision-making roles of the modern consumer and more...
RLI Involvement: Global Media Partner, magazine on show throughout the event and Panel Session
Expo Real - 7-9 October: -
Expo Real is an unmissable business platform for the international property sector, and for investors. Gathered together here in a single, compact forum are all the links in the value-added chain for the sector: from project development, finance and realization through to marketing, management and final use. The event takes place at the New Munich Trade Fair Centre in Germany.
RLI Involvement: Magazine on show throughout the event
World Retail Congress - 7-9 October: -
The 2013 World Retail Congress is your chance to engage with and learn from those steering the world's leading retail businesses. Recognised as the pre-eminent meeting place in the retail calendar, over the last six years the Congress has brought together over 6,200 of the industry's most influential business leaders and decision makers to challenge current thinking, unveil the latest innovations and shape the direction of retail. To be held at the CNIT La Défence Conference Centre in Paris.
RLI Involvement: Magazine on show throughout the event
World Retail Congress Latin America - 31 October-1 November
World Retail Congress Latin America brings something totally new and unique to the market: a dedicated and premier CEO class strategic retail Congress to the Latin America markets. The exponential growth of the retail sector in Latin America means there is much interest in the dynamics of Latin American retail markets, the examination of the emerging trends, challenges and growth opportunities and best practice within key markets. This year's event will be held at the WTC Sheraton in Sao Paulo, Brazil.
RLI Involvement: Magazine on show throughout the event
World Retail Congress Africa - 4-6 November: -
World Retail Congress Africa 2013 is your chance to engage with and learn from those steering the Pan-African and world's leading retail businesses. It marks a step change for industry in the region - The African Retail Revolution Realised. This event is to be held at The Maslow in Johannesburg.
RLI Involvement: Magazine on show throughout the event
MAPIC - 13-15 November: -
MAPIC is the key meeting point for retailers looking for partners, property developers and owners looking for retailers to enhance their sites. MAPIC delivers three days of tailored meetings, expert-led conferences and a premium exhibition for industry leaders targeting all types of retail property: city and shopping centres, factory outlets, leisure areas and transit zones. As usual, the event takes place at the Palais des Festivals in Cannes, France.
RLI Involvement: The magazine will be in all the delegate bags at the event, in the main hotels along the Croisette and in the Media racks in the Palais des Festivals, there will also be a Panel Session co-organised by RLI.
RECon Middle East & North Africa - 24-26 November: -
The pre-eminent educational and networking conference for the shopping centre industry professionals, retailers and owners in the Middle East & North Africa, RECon MENA will take participants on a deep dive to what they need to know now, and in the future, to operate successful shopping centres, The 2013 event takes place in The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi in Dubai, UAE.
RLI Involvement: The magazine will be in all the delegate bags at the event and will be on show throughout. RLI will also be organising a panel session... details to follow!
RECon Asia Conference - 2-3 December: -
The conference program will feature an outstanding line-up of industry experts who will address a timely array of topics assessing the challenges and opportunities in the Asia-Pacific region. The Exhibition will showcase developers, investors, retailers and product and service providers from Asia and abroad. The event takes place at the China National Convention Centre in Beijing.
RLI Involvement: Magazine on show throughout the event
As you can see from the list above the end of this year is going to be a hectic one, but each event offers different takes on world retail so it makes the travelling more than worthwhile, along with this all the networking opportunities it allows, as well as a chance to catch up with associates makes the trips an excellent investment.
First up though is a mainly relaxing holiday in the Dubai sun. I hope everyone enjoys their summer and any holidays or trips you may have planned.
See you on my travels...
Before this however I am heading to Dubai on Wednesday, and am very much looking forward to spending some time with the family and the sunshine, despite the heatwave in the UK I have missed most of it being in the office!!! It is not all play and relaxation on this trip however, as it presents a fantastic opportunity to meet up with friends and associates in the Emirates, and I have some important meetings planned whilst I am out there.
Back here at the office, we are in the process of putting the September issue together, whilst gearing up for the biggest issue of the year in November. which will once again be in all the delegate bags at MAPIC 2013, this huge 106 page issue will be full to the brim with articles, news, a preview of the MAPIC event, and lots of advertising space that is being taken quickly. To include your company in this pivotal issue get in touch at jayne.rafter@rli.uk.com or ring +44 (0)1706 212200
MAPIC, as the world's largest Retail Real Estate event, is a huge occasion for everyone in the industry, and this is no different for myself. As well as utilizing all the possibilities at the event, RLI is once again co-organising a special Conference session with Reed Midem for this year's MAPIC which takes place between the 13-15 November in Cannes. The session is entitled "Middle East Miracle" and it will examine how the Middle East has emerged as a key market for retailers across the world. Retail has become one of the fastest growing industries in the region for the past few years. The shopping centre industry in particular is experiencing unprecedented growth, and the Miracle of Dubai has caught the attention of the world's leading retailers, not forgetting the other Emirates now looking to replicate similar offerings. Not only that, in terms of investments and revenue generation, the Middle East is one of the world's most desirable retail environments made attractive by favourable government policy frameworks and active participation by the private sector.
Within this panel session, we will take a look at Entrepreneurship, challenges and opportunities in the region. This session is scheduled for Wednesday 13 November from 14:30 to 15:15.
MAPIC is not the only time I am holding a panel session in this flurry of events towards the end of the year. I will also be hosting a panel session at the India Retail Forum which takes place on the 25-26 September. This session is entitled "Making India the Next Big Player in Luxury Retail - Charming the Snakes and Scaling the Ladders". The session will allow luxury giants to share their perspectives on what they perceive of the Indian market, how to grow the luxury segment, and understand from the other retailers the peculiarities of the Indian consumer, and what they should do differently from what they have been doing. This session will take place on Wednesday 25 September from 14:15 to 15:30.
After my summer break to Dubai, the pace picks up again and the months leading up to Christmas will be a whirlwind of travel and exciting worldwide retail events. Before they all take place let me take this opportunity to brief you on the most important events on the retail calendar, and how RLI is involved in them.
BCSC Showcase - 11-12 September: -
The showcase is heading in an exciting new direction for 2013, taking place at the London Olympia it will be exactly what the delegates have asked for. This is the UK's largest business-to-business networking event for the retail and retail property industry.
RLI Involvement: Media Partner, magazine on show throughout the event
Retail Matchmaking Event 2013 - 25 September: -
Taking place at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Zagreb, Croatia, Retail Matchmaking is Central Eastern Europe's deal-making event of the year. The event connects the dots between leasing professionals and global retail brands ready to expand throughout the region via pre-arranged meetings in one place on one day.
RLI Involvement: Global Media Partner, magazine on show throughout the event
India Retail Forum - 25-26 September: -
To be held at the Mumbai Renaissance Hotel, the IRF will be built around engaging topics such as retail brand building, retail real estate, reinventing the physical store experience, e-commerce, social media marketing, FDI in retail, the changing decision-making roles of the modern consumer and more...
RLI Involvement: Global Media Partner, magazine on show throughout the event and Panel Session
Expo Real - 7-9 October: -
Expo Real is an unmissable business platform for the international property sector, and for investors. Gathered together here in a single, compact forum are all the links in the value-added chain for the sector: from project development, finance and realization through to marketing, management and final use. The event takes place at the New Munich Trade Fair Centre in Germany.
RLI Involvement: Magazine on show throughout the event
World Retail Congress - 7-9 October: -
The 2013 World Retail Congress is your chance to engage with and learn from those steering the world's leading retail businesses. Recognised as the pre-eminent meeting place in the retail calendar, over the last six years the Congress has brought together over 6,200 of the industry's most influential business leaders and decision makers to challenge current thinking, unveil the latest innovations and shape the direction of retail. To be held at the CNIT La Défence Conference Centre in Paris.
RLI Involvement: Magazine on show throughout the event
World Retail Congress Latin America - 31 October-1 November
World Retail Congress Latin America brings something totally new and unique to the market: a dedicated and premier CEO class strategic retail Congress to the Latin America markets. The exponential growth of the retail sector in Latin America means there is much interest in the dynamics of Latin American retail markets, the examination of the emerging trends, challenges and growth opportunities and best practice within key markets. This year's event will be held at the WTC Sheraton in Sao Paulo, Brazil.
RLI Involvement: Magazine on show throughout the event
World Retail Congress Africa - 4-6 November: -
World Retail Congress Africa 2013 is your chance to engage with and learn from those steering the Pan-African and world's leading retail businesses. It marks a step change for industry in the region - The African Retail Revolution Realised. This event is to be held at The Maslow in Johannesburg.
RLI Involvement: Magazine on show throughout the event
MAPIC - 13-15 November: -
MAPIC is the key meeting point for retailers looking for partners, property developers and owners looking for retailers to enhance their sites. MAPIC delivers three days of tailored meetings, expert-led conferences and a premium exhibition for industry leaders targeting all types of retail property: city and shopping centres, factory outlets, leisure areas and transit zones. As usual, the event takes place at the Palais des Festivals in Cannes, France.
RLI Involvement: The magazine will be in all the delegate bags at the event, in the main hotels along the Croisette and in the Media racks in the Palais des Festivals, there will also be a Panel Session co-organised by RLI.
RECon Middle East & North Africa - 24-26 November: -
The pre-eminent educational and networking conference for the shopping centre industry professionals, retailers and owners in the Middle East & North Africa, RECon MENA will take participants on a deep dive to what they need to know now, and in the future, to operate successful shopping centres, The 2013 event takes place in The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi in Dubai, UAE.
RLI Involvement: The magazine will be in all the delegate bags at the event and will be on show throughout. RLI will also be organising a panel session... details to follow!
RECon Asia Conference - 2-3 December: -
The conference program will feature an outstanding line-up of industry experts who will address a timely array of topics assessing the challenges and opportunities in the Asia-Pacific region. The Exhibition will showcase developers, investors, retailers and product and service providers from Asia and abroad. The event takes place at the China National Convention Centre in Beijing.
RLI Involvement: Magazine on show throughout the event
As you can see from the list above the end of this year is going to be a hectic one, but each event offers different takes on world retail so it makes the travelling more than worthwhile, along with this all the networking opportunities it allows, as well as a chance to catch up with associates makes the trips an excellent investment.
First up though is a mainly relaxing holiday in the Dubai sun. I hope everyone enjoys their summer and any holidays or trips you may have planned.
See you on my travels...
Wednesday 10 July 2013
In the Summertime...
Hi there, I hope you are enjoying some fine weather wherever you may be reading this. Here at the RLI office we are currently experiencing something of a heatwave outside our building, well, a heatwave by UK standards anyway!
I have gradually been finding my feet again over the last few weeks, and have had some time to digest the fantastic response we received from our inaugural RLI Connect event. Due to the overwhelming success and the amount of requests for an extension, I am pleased to announce that the World's First Global Retail & Leisure Property Deal-Making Forum will return next year and take place over two days on the 4 and 5 June 2014 at Stamford Bridge, the home of Chelsea Football Club. We will also be holding this event alongside the highly anticipated ninth Global RLI Awards that will take place in the evening of the 5 June. This two day, two event spectacular is set to be the highlight of the networking calender, so make sure you do not miss out on either event, book a place at both events now by emailing jayne.rafter@rli.uk.com or by ringing +44 (0)1706 212200
The July/August issue of RLI has now hit CEO's desks worldwide, and we have a summer blockbuster of an issue for you to feast your eyes upon. There are features galore, an exciting cover story and an exceptional insight into retail from around the globe in our Voyager section. Add to this the latest news from across the world, a review of our RLI Connect event, an RLI special feature on Tourism and a Winner's brochure from our RLI Awards 2013, and you have an issue that as always is bursting to the seams with news, features and comments on world retail and leisure.
On top of everything else included, the July/August issue is only the second magazine where we have used a new style for the front cover. The main picture on the cover now spreads to the entire page, the title and information included on every cover is now simply incorporated around the main artwork. Here at RLI we think it is a subtle but noticeable change, we hope you all agree.
The cover story for this months issue focuses on Aedas International, and the worldwide success they are finding with the continued growth of its landmark retail and entertainment destination, Starlight Place. RLI spoke to Keith Griffiths, Chairman of Aedas International, the Project Architect for Starlight Place in China, which recently won the Global RLI Award for International Retail & Leisure Destination 2013. For a preview of this excellent article go to www.rli.uk.com
In this issue we have a feature on the Netherlands-based lingerie specialist retailer Hunkemöller, which is currently experiencing a period of accelerated growth and expansion. As part of the article RLI sat down with the company's CEO Philip Mountford as he talks about the company's plans for the future, and how they intend to fulfil their aim to be the number one lingerie specialist throughout the world.
There is also a feature on Private Selection Hotels, who operate in six European countries and strive to ensure they maintain the highest possible standards of quality and service. RLI talks to the company's President Olaf Reinhardt to find out more about its successful growth and commitment to guest satisfaction.
There are more features throughout the magazine, but I cannot give away all the details of what really is a bumper issue! However, the features mentioned above are just the start of what is included in this July/August issue. Carrying on the Voyager section that has been included in the previous two issues of RLI, this edition zooms in on Africa and the retail market that is currently there and what is in store (excuse the pun) for the future.
Now that we have had time to reflect on our inaugural RLI Connect we have included a review of the day, explaining what happened on the day, what the advantages of this event are and what we have in store for next year to make even more deals take place under one roof. For more information visit www.rliconnect.com
Now, as this was a summer issue, we could not let it slide by without including The Global RLI Awards 2013 Winners brochure along with the magazine. This 52-page brochure has a section on each of the categories included on the awards, highlights the winners and portrays an evening of style and celebration through the photographs included. Preparation is already well underway for our ninth annual awards ceremony next year at the Natural History Museum in London.
Looking ahead, we have a fantastic September issue lined up, mentioned in the previous blog entitled Getting Back to Business. Also, the manic month that is November is drawing ever closer and with it will bring the biggest edition of RLI yet.
The future looks an exciting time for RLI, as we continue to build on the success of RLI Connect, as we look to bring our ninth annual awards to fruition and making it the must attend celebration of the year, and as always, we look to bring you month after month the best guide to global retail and leisure.
Till next time...
I have gradually been finding my feet again over the last few weeks, and have had some time to digest the fantastic response we received from our inaugural RLI Connect event. Due to the overwhelming success and the amount of requests for an extension, I am pleased to announce that the World's First Global Retail & Leisure Property Deal-Making Forum will return next year and take place over two days on the 4 and 5 June 2014 at Stamford Bridge, the home of Chelsea Football Club. We will also be holding this event alongside the highly anticipated ninth Global RLI Awards that will take place in the evening of the 5 June. This two day, two event spectacular is set to be the highlight of the networking calender, so make sure you do not miss out on either event, book a place at both events now by emailing jayne.rafter@rli.uk.com or by ringing +44 (0)1706 212200
On top of everything else included, the July/August issue is only the second magazine where we have used a new style for the front cover. The main picture on the cover now spreads to the entire page, the title and information included on every cover is now simply incorporated around the main artwork. Here at RLI we think it is a subtle but noticeable change, we hope you all agree.
The cover story for this months issue focuses on Aedas International, and the worldwide success they are finding with the continued growth of its landmark retail and entertainment destination, Starlight Place. RLI spoke to Keith Griffiths, Chairman of Aedas International, the Project Architect for Starlight Place in China, which recently won the Global RLI Award for International Retail & Leisure Destination 2013. For a preview of this excellent article go to www.rli.uk.com
In this issue we have a feature on the Netherlands-based lingerie specialist retailer Hunkemöller, which is currently experiencing a period of accelerated growth and expansion. As part of the article RLI sat down with the company's CEO Philip Mountford as he talks about the company's plans for the future, and how they intend to fulfil their aim to be the number one lingerie specialist throughout the world.
There is also a feature on Private Selection Hotels, who operate in six European countries and strive to ensure they maintain the highest possible standards of quality and service. RLI talks to the company's President Olaf Reinhardt to find out more about its successful growth and commitment to guest satisfaction.
There are more features throughout the magazine, but I cannot give away all the details of what really is a bumper issue! However, the features mentioned above are just the start of what is included in this July/August issue. Carrying on the Voyager section that has been included in the previous two issues of RLI, this edition zooms in on Africa and the retail market that is currently there and what is in store (excuse the pun) for the future.
Now that we have had time to reflect on our inaugural RLI Connect we have included a review of the day, explaining what happened on the day, what the advantages of this event are and what we have in store for next year to make even more deals take place under one roof. For more information visit www.rliconnect.com
Now, as this was a summer issue, we could not let it slide by without including The Global RLI Awards 2013 Winners brochure along with the magazine. This 52-page brochure has a section on each of the categories included on the awards, highlights the winners and portrays an evening of style and celebration through the photographs included. Preparation is already well underway for our ninth annual awards ceremony next year at the Natural History Museum in London.
Looking ahead, we have a fantastic September issue lined up, mentioned in the previous blog entitled Getting Back to Business. Also, the manic month that is November is drawing ever closer and with it will bring the biggest edition of RLI yet.
The future looks an exciting time for RLI, as we continue to build on the success of RLI Connect, as we look to bring our ninth annual awards to fruition and making it the must attend celebration of the year, and as always, we look to bring you month after month the best guide to global retail and leisure.
Till next time...
Friday 5 July 2013
Getting Back to Business
June turned out to be quite a month for me and the RLI team. It kicked off with the launch of our inaugural RLI Connect event at Chelsea Football Club on the 5 June, and this was followed up on the 6 June with our annual Global RLI Awards Gala Dinner which took place at the Natural History Museum. As if that was not enough, as soon as the dust settled from these two highly successful events, I found myself back at the office working on the July/August issue of our magazine so that it was ready for print.
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Now that the calendar has turned over to July, and the most recent issue of RLI has been put to bed (due out later this week), I can take a breather, get back to a semi-normal routine (that is my normal) and prepare myself for a fantastic few months starting in September. Who knows, I may even be able to squeeze some time in with my emails!
The summer months are one of the quieter periods of the year in the RLI office, although this certainly does not mean we will be grabbing an after lunch ice cream or having afternoon naps in the sunshine anytime soon.....
We have a whole host of changes planned here at RLI to implement over the summer. First off, work is well underway in the construction of the brand new RLI Connect site (due to launch any day now), so that we can start planning and booking people for the most highly anticipated networking event of 2014. Once this is up and running we are going to re-vamp our RLI website, making it easier and faster for you to find out all the essential retail and leisure news, along with top features and interviews from the most important people in the sector.
Alongside these changes work has started to make sure our September issue is bursting with exciting aspects, making you wish we had never been away. Already confirmed for the September issue are lead interviews with the UK high street retailer AllSaints and the world's largest cosmetics and beauty company, L'Oréal. On top of this, we will have an article on the world-renowned Genesis Colors and a special feature that focuses on Urban Regeneration, so be sure not to miss it.
Away from the magazine, September is going to be a great month for the industry, and I look forward to attending two massive events. First up is the BCSC Annual Showcase, which takes place at the London Olympia on the 11 and 12 September. This year promises to be better than ever with an exciting new direction and a global feel. The BCSC will welcome international investors and retailers looking for that key link to London, the world's retail capital. At this must attend event, I am pleased to announce that RLI - Retail & Leisure International will continue its partnership with BCSC, and has again been chosen to be a Media Partner at an event which will inspire and challenge attendees with an impressive collection of industry speakers from retail, development and public sector communities.
Following this star-studded event, the large events just keep on coming. Towards the end of September, on the 25 and 26, the annual India Retail Forum (IRF) takes place. Now in its tenth edition, this event will bring together more than 2,500 delegates, 175 distinguished speakers from around the world and 100 exhibitors of innovative products and services for the retail sector.
At this world-renowned event I have been given the opportunity to moderate a panel session. The topic is 'Making India the Next Big Player in Luxury Retail - Charming the Snakes and Scaling the Ladders' - Even while China has been hailed as the force du jour by the leisure industry, India is the next destination to watch out for with the luxury industry growing at 25 per cent and sales expected to touch $15 billion by 2015, nearly double of what they are today. Not surprising at all, given India's 81 million households which fall in the upper middle class and high-income bracket which surpasses the entire population of many Western nations. This year marks the tenth anniversary of Louis Vuitton's presence in India, which was the first luxury brand to set foot in the country. Luxury brands like Prada, Alexander McQueen, Dolce & Gabbana, Stella McCartney and Christian Louboutin are already here, or making a beeline for India. The luxury giants at this session will share their perspectives on what they perceive of the Indian market, how to grow the luxury segment, and understand from the other retailers the peculiarities of the Indian consumer, and what they should do differently from what they have been doing.
If anyone is interested in being a part of this exciting topic and would like a seat on the panel, please get in touch at jayne.rafter@rli.uk.com
For the immediate future I look forward to spending some time with the family, getting back down to the day-to-day schedule and sorting out my schedule between now and Christmas, which is looking even more packed than last year. I say bring it on.....
For more information on both of the exciting events taking place in September, please see the links below: -
BCSC Preview
India Retail Forum Preview
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Now that the calendar has turned over to July, and the most recent issue of RLI has been put to bed (due out later this week), I can take a breather, get back to a semi-normal routine (that is my normal) and prepare myself for a fantastic few months starting in September. Who knows, I may even be able to squeeze some time in with my emails!
The summer months are one of the quieter periods of the year in the RLI office, although this certainly does not mean we will be grabbing an after lunch ice cream or having afternoon naps in the sunshine anytime soon.....
We have a whole host of changes planned here at RLI to implement over the summer. First off, work is well underway in the construction of the brand new RLI Connect site (due to launch any day now), so that we can start planning and booking people for the most highly anticipated networking event of 2014. Once this is up and running we are going to re-vamp our RLI website, making it easier and faster for you to find out all the essential retail and leisure news, along with top features and interviews from the most important people in the sector.
Alongside these changes work has started to make sure our September issue is bursting with exciting aspects, making you wish we had never been away. Already confirmed for the September issue are lead interviews with the UK high street retailer AllSaints and the world's largest cosmetics and beauty company, L'Oréal. On top of this, we will have an article on the world-renowned Genesis Colors and a special feature that focuses on Urban Regeneration, so be sure not to miss it.
Away from the magazine, September is going to be a great month for the industry, and I look forward to attending two massive events. First up is the BCSC Annual Showcase, which takes place at the London Olympia on the 11 and 12 September. This year promises to be better than ever with an exciting new direction and a global feel. The BCSC will welcome international investors and retailers looking for that key link to London, the world's retail capital. At this must attend event, I am pleased to announce that RLI - Retail & Leisure International will continue its partnership with BCSC, and has again been chosen to be a Media Partner at an event which will inspire and challenge attendees with an impressive collection of industry speakers from retail, development and public sector communities.
Following this star-studded event, the large events just keep on coming. Towards the end of September, on the 25 and 26, the annual India Retail Forum (IRF) takes place. Now in its tenth edition, this event will bring together more than 2,500 delegates, 175 distinguished speakers from around the world and 100 exhibitors of innovative products and services for the retail sector.
At this world-renowned event I have been given the opportunity to moderate a panel session. The topic is 'Making India the Next Big Player in Luxury Retail - Charming the Snakes and Scaling the Ladders' - Even while China has been hailed as the force du jour by the leisure industry, India is the next destination to watch out for with the luxury industry growing at 25 per cent and sales expected to touch $15 billion by 2015, nearly double of what they are today. Not surprising at all, given India's 81 million households which fall in the upper middle class and high-income bracket which surpasses the entire population of many Western nations. This year marks the tenth anniversary of Louis Vuitton's presence in India, which was the first luxury brand to set foot in the country. Luxury brands like Prada, Alexander McQueen, Dolce & Gabbana, Stella McCartney and Christian Louboutin are already here, or making a beeline for India. The luxury giants at this session will share their perspectives on what they perceive of the Indian market, how to grow the luxury segment, and understand from the other retailers the peculiarities of the Indian consumer, and what they should do differently from what they have been doing.
If anyone is interested in being a part of this exciting topic and would like a seat on the panel, please get in touch at jayne.rafter@rli.uk.com
For the immediate future I look forward to spending some time with the family, getting back down to the day-to-day schedule and sorting out my schedule between now and Christmas, which is looking even more packed than last year. I say bring it on.....
For more information on both of the exciting events taking place in September, please see the links below: -
BCSC Preview
India Retail Forum Preview
Friday 14 June 2013
For the eighth consecutive year, may I present to you, the Global RLI Awards
I arrived at the venue a couple of hours before it all started to assist in the setting up and to do the final checks. The champagne reception quickly came around which gave people who met at RLI Connect a chance to catch up and for other people to become reacquainted before my opening speech and dinner.
After a fantastic four-course meal we settled down to the entertainment. 'Thriller Live' proved to be an exceptional spectacle, playing all the classic songs from the back catalogue of Michael Jackson and the Jackson 5. After a brief re-organizing of the stage we headed towards the main event.....
The Global RLI Awards 2013, and the winners were.....
Global RLI Award for Future Project 2013 - Sponsored by Location Group
The first award of the evening rewards the projects that are not yet under construction, judges considered architectural excellence, innovation in materials, equipment, new techniques and the positive impact that each development will have upon the community.
And the winner is, Yongsan International Business District, Seoul, South Korea
Competition was so fierce in this category that a Highly Commended Award was also presented, and this went to, Waterfront City Centre, Beirut
Global RLI Award for Omni-Channel Retailer 2013 - Sponsored by Moxie Software
This new award recognizes those retailers that demonstrate excellence and innovation in combining their bricks-and-mortar offering with dot.com channels, including the integration of all on-line and off-line channels, including mobile and catalogue shopping, to provide a seamless customer experience.
And the winner is, Dixons Retail
Global RLI Award for Most Innovative Retail & Leisure Concept 2013 - Sponsored by Sands Retail
The next award celebrates the most outstanding contribution to retail and leisure conceptualisation over the past year, this category rewards the company that has taken a brand and created an extraordinary experience for the customer.
And the winner is, KidZania, Cuicuilco
Competition was so fierce in this category that a Highly Commended Award was also presented, and this went to, Shinsegae Uijeongbu, South Korea
Global RLI Award for International Retail & Leisure Destination 2013 - Presented by McArthur + Company
For this category, judges will celebrate the most outstanding new international retail and leisure experience by awarding a special prize to the destination that has delivered the most customers, the best offering and the most dynamic approach to property development.
And the winner is, Starlight Place, Chongqing, China
Competition was so fierce in this category that a Highly Commended Award was also presented, and this went to, The Star Vista, Singapore
Global RLI Award for International Shopping Centre 2013 - Sponsored by MK-Illumination
In this award judges looked for the contribution made by shopping centres in providing customer care, good presentation, maintenance and cleanliness, this award also paid particular attention to high levels of service, diversity of offer and design excellence.
And the winner is, Vincom Centre A Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Global RLI Award for Shopping Centre Renovation 2013 - Sponsored by Haskoll
The next award will be presented to the centre that demonstrated innovation in its renovation through architecture and design, how it has contributed to the overall regeneration of the town, city or area, its contribution to the local community and the steps it has taken to improve sustainability.
And the winner is, Plaza Singapura, Singapore
Competition was so fierce in this category that a Highly Commended Award was also presented, and this went to, Palm City Mersin Shopping
Global RLI Award for UK Retailer 2013 - Sponsored by ShopperTrak
This award honours a UK retail business that can truly be described as having had an exceptional year. Our judges will be looking for strong financial performance, in-store innovation and proven customer service.
And the winner is, Boux Avenue
Global RLI Award for International Retailer 2013 - Sponsored by TriGranit Management Corporation
For this award, there is the opportunity to honour the international retailer that has achieved great things in the past year. Judges looked for innovation, brand values and store innovation. Strong financial performance and a clear development strategy were also essential.
And the winner is, Asics
Global RLI Award for Emerging Market Retailer 2013 - Sponsored by UK Trade & Investment
In this award judges looked for a business that can demonstrate that they have a robust and growing retail format whilst examining the part it is playing in the development of the emerging economies.
And the winner is, Giordano International
Global RLI Award for Global Leisure Operator 2013 - Sponsored by Red Sea Mall
This award is a tribute to the international leisure operator that has shown the strongest performance, whilst offering the customer an innovative and exciting brand and maintaining global recognition.
And the winner is, Hard Rock International
Global RLI Award for Hospitality 2013 - Presented by Aerium
The number of restaurants, clubs and bars opening throughout the world is truly staggering and there is no shortage of choice. This new category, aims to reward quality, diversity and genuine global expansion. The nominee must be an operator with a minimum of six outlets and an international presence.
And the winner is, McDonald's Restaurants
Global RLI Award for Developer 2013 - Sponsored by Design International
This award is designed to highlight the best new retail and leisure schemes from the most successful and exciting development company of the last 12 months, with an emphasis on diversity, innovation and, of course, the 'wow' factor.
And the winner is, Capitamalls Asia
Competition was so fierce in this category that a Highly Commended Award was also presented, and this went to, TriGranit Development Corporation
Global RLI Award for Designer 2013 - Presented by Spar European Shopping Centers
This award is a tribute to the designer that consistently and accurately delivers the value of a brand to both business and customers. Our judges have examined both the design process, its objective and, most importantly, the results.
And the winner is, Design International
Global RLI Award for Contractor 2013 - Presented by National Association of Shopfitters and Interior Contractors
The next award honours innovative and trail-blazing companies, this award acknowledges the importance of the contractor's role in the successful completion of any retail and leisure development. The judges have examined project portfolios, safety records and site presentation, amongst other factors.
And the winner is, ISG
Global RLI Award for Interior Excellence 2013 - Presented by Multi Development
This award acknowledges the importance of the shopfitter's role in the successful completion of any retail or leisure development. The award also recognizes the company's understanding of a client's needs, their contribution to the design process and their innovative use of the space and materials.
And the winner is, Burberry Flagship Store, Regent Street, London, UK
Competition was so fierce in this category that a Highly Commended Award was also presented, and this went to, Marina Home Interiors
Global RLI Award for Rising Star of the Year 2013 - Presented by ISG
The final award of the evening recognizes the entrepreneurial spirit, achievements and long-term ambitions of smaller up-and-coming retail businesses.
And the winner is, Hotel Chocolat
As the evening came to a close after a spectacular awards ceremony and several photographs, you would be forgiven for thinking the night was coming to an end, what actually happened was that the real party was only just beginning. There was an after party for everyone who attended the awards at the exclusive champagne bar Babble, courtesy of our entertainment sponsor Novus Leisure. It was an excellent venue and allowed everyone a chance to unwind and do some very informal networking in a relaxed atmosphere.
As these two days of non-stop action come to a close, all that is left to say is that I cannot wait to do it all again bigger and better next year, so do not miss out.
To view some press that followed the awards, just follow the links below: -
http://news.kuwaittimes.net/giordano-wins-emerging-market-retailer-2013-award-the-leading-apparel-retailer-bested-many-retailers-from-across-the-globe/
http://designinternational.com/sites/default/files/design_international_is_designer_of_the_year.pdf
http://www.khaleejtimes.com/kt-article-display-1.asp?section=uaebusiness&xfile=data/uaebusiness/2013/june/uaebusiness_june320.xml
I'll be back soon, till next time.....
Months of planning put into action.....
Hello there!!! My apologies for being MIA so long, how is everyone? The last few months have been a complete whirlwind, travelling all over and organizing our RLI Connect and RLI Awards events back-to-back, not that I would have it any other way. However now that I can draw breath, I can catch you up on all things RLI..jpg)
The 5th June saw the launch of RLI Connect, The World's First Global Retail and Leisure Property Deal-Making Forum. The idea for this event is something I have had in my mind for years, to bring together key global retail and leisure decision makers and put them together under one roof, and let the deals get done in person without all the informal emails and layers of phone transfers. I would like to thank ourHeadline Sponsor Sands Retail and Silver Sponsor Red Sea Mall for their invaluable Support.
"RLI Connect provided a fabulous platform for retailers and property owners to connect in a positive forum and in a way not offered by other events. Our headline sponsorship derived us great value and we look forward to our continuing association with Jayne and her team for years to come." - David Sylvester - Senior Vice President - Sands Retail (Headline Sponsor)
"RLI Connect 2013 was a great networking platform for me to meet others and share information between retailers and developers. I think it is a must for everyone in the industry to attend" - Mohammad I.B. Alawi - CEO - Red Sea Mall (Silver Sponsor)
"RLI Connect is a useful event in terms of meeting the key stakeholders for new business ventures..... I am sure it will be one of the main events in the Global Retail Events calendar." - Derihon Coquard - International Business Development Manager - George
"RLI Connect was a great forum to network and meet up with fellow retailers, shopping mall developers, service providers and consultants." - Ishwar Chugani - Managing Director - Giordano
"A well organised, concentrated event providing exposure to numerous quality international contacts in just one day" - David Hyde - Group Sales and Marketing Director - AMS Group
"This is an event that we would recommend to any shopping mall, property developer or retail brand to help them crystallise their thinking as to the most practical and profitable ways to move forward." - Roy Seaman - Managing Director - Franchise Development Services
"Jayne put together an absolutely flawless event, it allowed our organisation to have very strategic meetings with retailers looking at expansion into the middle eastern region. Extremely productive and well planned" - Ritu Chopra - Director - Retail Leasing & Client Relations - McArthur & Company
"For a first event, all I can say is that this was amongst the best retail events I have participated in. Everything was well thought out and organised so that we could make the most of the day. Also in terms of networking it was impressive, so we can't wait for the next one" - Filipe Correia - Expansion Director - Parfois
"Both the RLI Connect and the Global RLI Awards events were simply amazing. I made some fantastic contacts as well as some prospective deals..... RLI is a great platform for global retail on all levels." - Steven Wolfson - International Franchise Director - NYS Collection
"RLI Connect was a great success for Haskoll, we got to see a number of people that have eluded us for some time, including a Chinese developer, worth every minute of the whole day's event. Must do it again" - Derek Barker - Managing Director - Haskoll
"This is a great platform to network and do business. We definitely got some great leads." - Hiro Harjani - Chairman - Aftershock London
"All the premium attendees of the over-sized conferences in an intimate environment and all there to do real business" - Andrew Darrow - Executive Vice-President - KidZania
"Intend to take more people next year..... A very successful "first" for RLI with a number of interesting retailers and mall owners/developers from around the globe" - John Strachan - Partner, Global Head of Retail - Cushman & Wakefield
"Great network platform, high class contacts, enough time, good buffet, good location." - Bastian Jendral - Founder/Director - Delice Delikatessen
"Good networking event that allows you to access key decision makers" - Roger Williams - Head of International - Hotel Chocolat
"RLI Connect is a great market place for expanding global retailers to meet landlords and real estate support services" - Ermine Amies - Business Development, Europe - Local Gravity
"RLI Connect was a great event, there was private meeting rooms, a central meeting point and there was friendly and helpful support" - Helen Barnish - Head of International Development - Hamleys
"I was impressed by the spirit of the event, it was a stress-free environment which allowed people to socialize easily and simply, something obvious like this can often be over-looked" - Eric Portelli - Development Director Europe - Carmen Steffens
"A great event and very well put together - well done! I particularly liked the meeting rooms that gave privacy and allowed for in-depth conversations. I also liked the fact that you introduced us to people that we did not know" - Mohamediqbal Yacoobali - CEO - Dune International
"The RLI Connect Deal-Making Forum was well organized and the pre-arranged meetings went ahead flawlessly. There was a buzz around the event and Jayne made sure that every delegate was looked after. I will certainly be present at her future events." - Khurshid Vakil - CO-Founder - Marina Home Interiors
"The who's who in international retail were present in one room, was a great opportunity to have face time without the need of travelling" - Mark Eve - Director - Global Retail Forum
"RLI Connect was a great experience and I can't wait to join next year" - Roberto Di Giorgio - President - Campo Marzio
"It was a pleasure to attend RLI Connect held recently at Chelsea Football Club. The organisation of the event was superb and all the small details were handled with grace and professionalism. Our meetings were not only interesting but highly productive. We will definitely be back for RLI Connect 2014." - Phil McArthur - Managing Director - McArthur + Company
"An event like this is the best possible option to bring together people from all over the world to have productive meetings about retail business. Without taking part in RLI Connect, it would have taken us years to find and contact these companies." - Gregor Garbajs - Manager - Maya Maya
"Yet another great event by RLI" - Michael Ellis - Partner - 5+design
"I appreciated that the number of operators was limited to the best players in the real-estate market" - Paola Macchi - Real Estate Director - Dolce & Gabbana
"RLI Connect proved to be a very beneficial event for Yours Clothing. Being able to discuss opportunities with members of UKTI, international landlords and developers as well as being able to network with other retailers and colleagues made this first event one to remember. Certainly an event to attend for 2014!" - Richard Aquilina - International Consultant - Yours Clothing
"Great forum to get your brand exposed to the international real estate community. Makes for excellent networking" - Daniel Spinath - CEO - Crepeaffaire
"Great venue, very professional and the RLI team did a splendid job on the day. The event was worthwhile, interesting and useful on many levels" - Simon Taylor - Head of International Franchise - New Look
"It was a great, well-organised event in a central location. For us, the difference from other events we attend was the opportunity to meet a wide range of new faces, from the retail, catering and leisure world - facilitated through Jayne's connections - putting us in touch with people we hadn't met before. We will certainly attend next year." - Helen Carr - Senior Manager, Leasing - intu Properties
"It was a pleasure to attend the RLI Connect event. The event was very organised and it was easy to use the meeting rooms which were very private and that made it easy to have one on one meetings. I found it very interesting and will most likely tie up a very good business deal over the next month so it was definitely worth it." - Armand Grech - Director - Square Deal
"It was a great event to meet with potential business partners. I particularly liked the private areas to conduct meetings and the two general mingling areas" - Bernard Smith - Head of Franchise - Laura Ashley
"Was a great event and I found it very useful, I look forward to the next one" - Naresh Abrol - Managing Director - Internacionale
"Overall it was a great event and very worthwhile going to, the ease of meeting all of the mall developers and representatives in one place on one day was a particularly good feature." - Cathal Power - CEO - Zumo
Looking ahead, we will also be taking on board the positive comments made to make sure we include these elements again next year, but with a fresh spin, and to act on the possibilities for improvement brought to our attention here at RLI. We already have several ideas we are looking forward to implementing at the second RLI Connect, such as providing an improved online meeting system to give users an even better chance of concluding deals on the day, which is what this event is all about.
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Thursday 10 January 2013
Marina Bay Sands
The Art Science Museum is constructed next to the three blocks and has the shape of a lotus. Its roof will be retractable, providing a waterfall through the roof of collected rainwater when closed in the day and with laser shows when opened at night. In front of the Event Plaza is the Wonder Full show, a light and water spectacular that is the largest in Southeast Asia.
My
favourite as a shopaholic…The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands which boast close to
1,000,000 square feet (93,000 m2) of retail space with over 300 stores and
F&B outlets, including numerous luxury duplexes for boutiques such as Louis
Vuitton, Ralph Lauren, Chanel, Cartier and Prada. Other luxury stores include
Gucci, Hermès, Emporio Armani, Chopard, REDValentino, Dior, Dunhill, Vertu, Miu
Miu, Yves Saint Laurent, Salvatore Ferragamo,Montblanc, Blancpain, an Hermès
Watch Boutique, and Herve Leger.
A canal
runs through the length of the Shoppes, in the same style as the Venetian in
Las Vegas. There are also Celebrity Chef
Restaurants – Cut (by Wolfgang Puck), Waku Ghin (by Tetsuya Wakuda), Pizzeria
and Osteria Mozza (by Mario Batali), Guy Savoy (by Guy Savoy), DB Bistro
Moderne (by Daniel Boulud).
An Iconic
centrepiece lies in the form of a crystal Pavilion which houses the world's
largest Louis Vuitton boutique, in addition to being on a floating island, at
20,000 square feet, it is connected to part of the boutique in the Shoppes via
an underwater tunnel. There is also a Grand Theatre and ice-skating rink.
To find
out more visit marinabaysands.com
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