Spring Fair has announced the first speakers for its Heart of Retail Stage, with the 2027 edition taking place at NEC Birmingham from 7 to 10 February.
The show will bring together retail leaders and entrepreneurs to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing the industry. The initial lineup comprises Dan Finley, chief executive of Debenhams Group; Alan Roper, chief executive of Blue Diamond Garden Centres; Emma Jones CBE, the Small Business Commissioner; Helen Dickinson, chief executive of the British Retail Consortium; and retail entrepreneur Theo Paphitis.
What the sessions cover
Stage sessions will explore Debenhams' digital transformation, independent retail, leadership, customer experience and the future of the high street. Paphitis is scheduled to deliver the closing conversation, A Love Letter to Retail, on 10 February.
The wider programme is built around 10 themes, among them sustainability, emerging brands, customer loyalty, AI and technology, business growth, and championing independent retailers.
Fay Tranter, event director at Spring Fair, said the programme aims to bring together voices who can challenge thinking, share experience and offer 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.