The Retail Summit, an annual event that brings together global retail giants to showcase the trends and developments in the retail sector, began on March 14.

The summit is being held in partnership with Dubai Chambers.

The two-day summit has brought international brands and local franchise partners to Dubai for the event, which is being held at Atlantis, The Palm, and the recently-launched Atlantis, The Royal.

The Retail Summit aims to support international brands who are looking to either establish an in-market presence or sell via cross-border e-commerce to the UAE.

Retail Summit highlights

The summit, which is in its third edition, gives local brands the opportunity to expand into international markets by meeting mentors to widen professional networks and create partnerships.

Regional and internationally-renowned retailers and 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.

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, the CEO of Fortnum & Mason, among others.

Also present are regional master franchise companies 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.

Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, president and CEO of Dubai Chambers, 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 capitalise 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,” he added.

Gary Thatcher, CEO and co-founder of The Retail Summit, added, “I am very proud of The Retail Summit team for working so diligently as we enter the final moments before the event. We believe that the third edition is going to be the biggest yet as we draw a big focus on both the regional and international connectivity.”