IFA Retail Leaders Summit

Unlocking growth – Getting ahead of economic trends and consumer demand 

The consumer electronics industry is facing a rapidly evolving landscape marked by economic shifts, technological advancements, and shifting consumer preferences. This opening keynote and panel will explore how companies can navigate these challenges while positioning themselves for growth and competitive advantage.

• Navigating economic shifts: Inflation, supply chain disruptions, and changing global trade policies have created both challenges and opportunities in the consumer electronics market. Experts will discuss how companies are adapting to these shifts, optimizing their supply chains, and planning for resilience in an unpredictable global environment. 

• Anticipating consumer demand: The ability to predict consumer demand has never been more critical. We explore how data analytics, AI, and advanced market research tools are helping companies forecast trends, understand consumer behaviour, and develop products that meet emerging needs.

• Innovating for competitive advantage: Innovation in sustainability, smart technologies, and ecosystem integration will be key to staying ahead. We share how leveraging these innovations, alongside cutting-edge software and hardware, can drive future growth and improve market positioning in a competitive landscape.

How AI, software, and computing power are shaping the future of retail 

The retail landscape is rapidly evolving. In this impact panel, industry leaders will discuss how advanced AI, cloud computing, and software solutions are revolutionizing retail operations and customer experiences, paving the way for a new era of intelligent, data-driven retail.

• AI-driven retail innovation: AI-powered analytics and automation are radically transforming how companies manage inventory, personalize shopping experiences, and enhance customer engagement. Panelists will explore how they are using AI to optimize retail processes, boost operational efficiency, and deliver personalized experiences at scale.

• The power of cloud and computing: Cloud and computing solutions are enabling retailers to operate with greater scalability, security, and intelligence. This discussion will focus on how cloud technologies are empowering retailers to harness vast amounts of data, streamline operations, and build robust, future-proof retail infrastructures.

• Future of smart retail: The panel will look ahead to the next generation of retail, where predictive analytics, generative AI, and automation play a pivotal role in shaping customer interactions, supply chain management, and product development. Learn how these emerging trends are creating new opportunities for innovation in the retail space.

• From digital-first to brick-and-mortar expansion: Originally an eCommerce company, this organisation recognized the need for physical stores to provide hands-on product experiences, expert advice, and immediate pickup options. Today, its stores function as service hubs, enhancing trust and customer satisfaction.

• Seamless integration of online and offline: Digital infrastructure ensures that customers can research products online, check availability in-store, and choose convenient pickup or delivery options. Their service even offers same-day delivery via e-bikes in select cities.

• Personalised, data-driven customer service: By leveraging advanced data analytics and AI, this company tailors product recommendations, refines logistics, and ensures customers receive the right product at the right time. Their customer-centric approach, backed by in-house software development, enhances the overall shopping journey. 

• Strong DTC model for private label products: They have developed their own line of private-label products, leveraging customer feedback and data insights to create offerings that fill gaps in the market, ensuring higher margins and differentiation from competitors.

The future of consumer electronics retail – balancing in-store, e-commerce and DTC: How can brands optimize their omnichannel strategy to meet evolving consumer expectations?

• AI and data-driven retail – personalisation, automation and the next generation of shopping experiences: How are retailers using AI and analytics to drive customer engagement and sales?

• The role of AI, software and computing power in transforming consumer electronics: How are technology advancements driving new business models and customer experiences?

• Sustainability and circular economy in consumer electronics: How can retailers and manufacturers reduce e-waste and make sustainable choices profitable?

• Understanding consumer demand – how to stay ahead of economic and market trends: What data sources and methodologies can brands use to anticipate shifts in consumer behaviour?

• Revolutionising last-mile delivery – meeting expectations for speed and convenience: How can retailers optimize their fulfillment and logistics to stay competitive?

As consumer behaviour continues to evolve, retailers must find the right balance between physical stores, eCommerce, and direct-to-consumer (DTC) strategies. This session will explore how leading retailers are navigating this shift, using innovative approaches to create a seamless customer experience across all channels.

• Harmonising sales channels: How leading retailers are integrating in-store experiences, eCommerce platforms, and DTC strategies to meet customer expectations.

• Data-driven decision making: Leveraging technology, AI, and analytics to optimize inventory, pricing, and personalization across different retail channels.

• Future-proofing retail: Strategies for adapting to shifting consumer behaviours, emerging technologies, and market disruptions to build a resilient, omnichannel strategy.

• From clicks to bricks – lessons from digital-first brands entering physical retail: What are the key challenges and opportunities when expanding from eCommerce to physical stores?

• Smart homes, wearables and the future of connected devices: What are the next big trends in consumer electronics, and how will they impact retail?

• The power of community and brand loyalty in DTC success: How are brands leveraging social engagement, crowdfunding, and exclusivity to build a loyal customer base?