Member Article

Store Wars – The changing face of retail

Around a hundred guests recently attended ‘Store Wars’, the Changing Face of Retail event at Hult House, presented by the Inspired Leaders Network, in partnership with Hult International Business School.

The audience heard from, and engaged with senior influencers from the world of retail:

Alan Giles – Former CEO of HMV Group PLC

Rebecca Singleton – Marketing Director – Morrisons

Chris Brady – Professor, Salford Business School; and

Richard Cope - Senior Trends Consultant Mintel.

The event was opened by Chris Holmes, COO, Hult International Business School and Chaired by eminent broadcaster and entrepreneur René Carayol.

The panelists delivered passionate insights and strong views on a topic that remains dear to our hearts as a ‘nation of shopkeepers’. Retailers are facing a tough operating environment, challenges such as: the exponential growth of ecommerce, the decline of the high street, ever decreasing profit margins and more savvy customers with higher expectations.

Chris Holmes, COO, Hult International Business School said:

“As someone who has spent the majority of my career in retailing it is clear that the challenges presented by the intensity of the competition and the pace of change have never been greater.

At Hult we are focused on developing global leaders of tomorrow across all sectors by providing practical, real world insights in to the critical issues facing businesses today. Tonight’s panel provided an outstanding learning experience for both our students and invited corporate guests and we are delighted to have been partners in hosting the event.

This event is a prime example of how Hult’s links with industry are advancing us as the most relevant business school in the world, compounded by our recent Association of MBA’s award for MBA Innovation 2014“.

Marcus McKenzie, from the Inspired Leaders Network said:

“Many have said that retail is detail, we felt something slightly different last night – retail is people; the right people coupled with the right leadership leads to the right customers.

Our first class panel of retail industry experts exchanged contrarian opinions as they sparred with each other and responded to a volley of questions from an enthused and expectant audience“.

Another memorable Inspired Leaders Network experience was enjoyed by all.

A video from the event can be viewed: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RhOv4afXl78

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Victoria Robinson .