Consumer behaviour and its impact on retail growth will take centre stage at Olympia in September, as the biggest event in retail property returns to London for the second year.
BCSC 2014 will focus on getting into the mind of the ‘always connected consumer’ in order to secure sustainable retail growth. With some of the industry’s biggest names and High Streets Minister, Brandon Lewis MP, delegates will be challenged to deepen their understanding of the seismic shift which multi-channel retail and technology has brought to our town and city centres.
Last year, over 2,800 delegates attended BCSC 2013 which came to London for the first time in the event’s 28 year history. BCSC 2014 will run over two days on 10 to 11 September and includes a major exhibition, education programme and on-site social events.
Michael Green, Chief Executive, British Council of Shopping Centres (BCSC), said:
“We are building on last year’s success at Olympia by focusing our attention on the consumer. It is easy to get distracted as the market bounces back. But if we forget the customer, and how much has changed in how they are shopping, then clearly UK retail will be in trouble. This year we want to look at the cutting edge of technological developments which are enabling the multi-channel revolution to move at such a pace.
“We are also pleased to be able to announce a drinks party too within the exhibition space offering ample opportunity for our host of exhibitors and delegates to achieve what’s at the heart of this event – networking and doing business’’.
The full conference programme, also published today, will include a session on how developers and landlords can work more closely with local authorities in an era of devolution, localism and continued public sector funding cuts.
As well as the return of the ‘Early Bird’ deal, and preferential rates for under-35s, BCSC is introducing a special Thursday only package for delegates under 30. This offers conference entry and a private networking event on Thursday 11 September specifically designed for those in their 20s.
To book a place at BCSC 2014, please go to: BCSC 2014.