#Saudi Arabia #Riyadh #Retail Innovation #RLC Global Forum

RLC Global Forum 2026: Shaping the Future of Retail

The RLC Global Forum is set to return to Riyadh in 2026, marking a pivotal moment for the retail and consumer sectors. Scheduled for February 3-4, this flagship meeting will explore the theme of "Growth Crossroads," reflecting the evolving dynamics of global commerce and innovation. With significant prior success, the 2025 edition attracted over 2,000 influential leaders from 42 countries, fostering discussions that impacted various industries, including grocery retail, luxury goods, technology, and innovation.

Focus Areas of the 2026 Event

The upcoming forum will bring together both regional and international leaders who will engage in key sessions covering:

• - Public-Private Leadership: Dialogue focused on cross-industry collaborations and the development of policy priorities.
• - Retail and Infrastructure: Tracks assessing future lifestyle destinations that aim to influence retail and real estate landscapes.
• - Innovation Showcases: Exhibitions across various sectors including fashion, beauty, groceries, and fintech, aimed at highlighting cutting-edge solutions.
• - Working Groups: Cross-sector discussions addressing trade, labor, and regional integration, emphasizing collaboration across markets.

As the Gulf region positions itself as a vibrant hub for retail innovation and investment, the Forum is committed to promoting constructive dialogue and collaborative efforts among emerging markets and established economies. This initiative aims to create a more resilient and inclusive global marketplace.

Notable Speakers at RLC 2026

The lineup of speakers is expected to include prominent figures from the retail sector, among them:

• - Sam Kim - Vice Chairman and Group CEO of Lotte Retail (South Korea)
• - André Maeder - CEO of Selfridges Group (UK)
• - Marco Bizzarri - Co-founder and CEO of Forel (Italy)
• - Alison Rehill-Erguven - CEO of Cenomi Centers (KSA)
• - Sima Ved - Founder and Chairwoman of Apparel Group (UAE)
• - Geoffroy Van Raemdonck - Independent Director of Moncler Group (USA)
• - Dr. Bander Hamooh - CEO of Panda Retail Company (KSA)
• - Michael Chalhoub - CEO of Chalhoub Group (UAE)

In a statement, Panos Linardos, Chairman of the RLC Global Forum, emphasized the strategic importance of growth amidst global changes. "In a world that’s being rewired, the pursuit of growth has never been more strategic. By selecting Riyadh once again, we are placing the Forum at the heart of a region driving new forms of growth and exploring connections between emerging hubs and established markets that will shape the future of retail and trade."

This gathering promises to be pivotal as it addresses the challenges and opportunities within the rapidly changing landscape of retail. Attendees will have the chance to network, share insights, and forge collaborations that could redefine industry standards and practices.

As Riyadh emerges as a central point for retail innovation, stakeholders are encouraged to participate in the Forum to contribute to discussions that will likely influence the future trajectory of global retail and consumer behavior.

In conclusion, the RLC Global Forum 2026 in Riyadh is not just an event; it is set to be a crucible for ideas that will shape the very foundation of modern retail. Participants will leave equipped with knowledge, connections, and inspiration to navigate the complexities of the market moving forward.