A Whale of a Time!

Returning to its iconic home of the Natural History Museum, the Global RLI Awards 2018 took place on the 10 May and saw the best of the best in the industry celebrate a wonderful evening. The awards ceremony was presented under the new star attraction ‘Hope’, and as ever the evening was one to remember for everyone involved.

In association with luxury powerhouse the Chalhoub Group for the third year in a row, the Global RLI Awards 2018 took place on the 10 May, and returned to its rightful home of the Natural History Museum in London after being held in Dubai last year. A fantastic evening was had by all under the magnificent new blue whale skeleton ‘Hope’, named to symbolise humanity’s power to shape a sustainable future.

In an industry where the boundaries are always being pushed, the Global RLI Awards 2018 paid tribute to the very best in the world of retail and leisure. To those who are not afraid to take risks, to those willing to not only tackle the challenges of their time, but to overcome them and emerge victorious and refusing to settle for anything less.

In her opening speech, RLI Publisher Jayne Rafter commented that: “Tonight, we pay tribute to the very best of the best, the innovators and those that dare to push the boundaries; we reward all of those exemplary, dynamic projects and concepts that have excited the senses recently with stunning architecture, superb customer service and breath-taking ideas.”

For the sixth year running the Global RLI Awards were held in conjunction with the RLI Connect Global Deal-Making Forum, this year with an added twist of ‘Retailtainment’, which took place at Stamford Bridge, home to Chelsea Football Club across the 8-9 May. The thinking behind RLI Connect Global remains simple… face-time with key global retail and leisure decision makers and getting those deals done!

Before guests were invited into the main hall for dinner, the Champagne Reception was held in one of the museum’s many exhibition areas and allowed guests to network and greet industry friends in a relaxed environment.

Photo opportunities were once again a key theme at the Global RLI Awards Gala Evening and alongside RLI’s own photo board, returning category sponsor MK Illumination continued to amaze with their artistic decorations, which this year included the signature MK chair and an amazing London backdrop, setting the scene perfectly for a snap or two.

Following the exquisite 3-course meal, guests were treated to some fantastic entertainment in the form of the revived West End Show ‘Chicago’, in association with Entertainment Sponsor, Cityland Mall, the world’s first 1.2 million square foot, nature-inspired property located in Dubai, UAE. The cast performed classic songs that sent pulses racing following the evening meal. After the audience cheered the performers from the stage it was that time again, for the Global RLI Awards ceremony…

With competition so eagerly contested between 17 categories and in many cases only the smallest amount of points between each nomination, the Judging Panel also decided to present Highly Commended Awards in no less than nine categories. A new addition was the ‘Most Innovative Food & Beverage Concept’ award, as F&B services have become the must have element in any retail & leisure destination.

As always, the Judging Panel comprising of highly respected leaders representing a broad spectrum of sectors from all corners of the World, faced the incredibly daunting task of narrowing down an incredible number of entries to a shortlist for each category. RLI would like to once again thank all of our judges for their diligence and hard work.

Of course, RLI would like to thank our wonderful sponsors and partners for their support, without whom an event like this wouldn’t happen - Headline Sponsor Chalhoub Group, Entertainment Sponsor Cityland Mall and associated category sponsors Design International, ECE Projektmanagement, Grandscape, Lifestyle Outlets, MAPIC, MK Illumination and Sands Retail.

The night was rounded off in style as the complimentary bar remained open until 12:30am after the awards ceremony had concluded, offering an ideal opportunity for all of this year’s winners to celebrate.

RLI are looking to take both the RLI Connect Global Event and the prestigious Global RLI Awards to an exciting new location which will be revealed soon…so watch this space!

Global RLI Awards Celebrates 10th Anniversary in Style in Dubai

To mark the 10th anniversary of the Global RLI Awards, we held this event in one of the most talked about retail destinations in the world, Dubai. The awards took place at the Meydan Gallery on the evening of the 3rd June.

Following the conclusion of RLI Connect 2015 the previous day, we offered attendees the opportunity to join us on a shopping centre tour during the day before the awards, as we travelled to Mall of the Emirates and The Dubai Mall. The tour was an excellent opportunity for people to network and interact with people in a different environment. Everyone had an excellent time sampling the delights of Ski Dubai in Mall of the Emirates and KidZania Dubai, Sega Arcade and Aquarium Tunnel in The Dubai Mall.

Once we returned all the focus went into the final preparations for the Global RLI Awards. Held in a unique setting fitting of the occasion, there was the return of the MK-Illumination 'throne' along with a stylish lay-out for the Champagne Reception complimented with music by the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra, courtesy of Mall of Qatar. Sincere thanks to our Headline Sponsor Marina Home Interiors, their association with the event made the evening one to definitely remember.

Before the awards took place, there was the excellent four-course meal, combined with highlights from various London West-End shows from previous RLI Awards sponsored by Mall of Qatar.

Once the crowd had calmed down, it was time for the main event, and the moment everyone had been waiting for...Winners of the 10th Global RLI Awards are...

Global RLI Award for Future Project - Sponsored by Landmark International

This category rewards those future projects that are not yet under construction. Our panel have judged architectural excellence, innovation in materials, equipment, new techniques, and the positive impact that each development will have upon the local community.

And the winner is, Place Vendome, Lusail City, Qatar

Competition was so fierce in this category that a Highly Commended Award was also presented, and this went to, Minsk World, Belarus

Global RLI Award for Most Innovative Multi-Channel Retailing Concept - Sponsored by Grottini

Multi-Channel retail lies at the heart of the new shopping landscape and this category recognises those retailers or shopping centre developers that demonstrate excellence and innovation in the integration of all on- and off-line channels to enhance the customer experience.

And the winner is, Boux Avenue

Global RLI Award for Most Innovative Retail & Leisure Concept - Sponsored by The Toy Store

Celebrating the most outstanding contribution to retail and leisure conceptualisation over the past year, this category rewards the company that has taken a brand and created an extraordinary experience for the customer.

And the winner is, KidZania Jeddah

Competition was so fierce in this category that a Highly Commended Award was also presented, and this went to, CapitaMall Tianfu, Chengdu, China

Global RLI Award for International Retail & Leisure Destination - Sponsored by McArthur + Company

In this category, the judges will celebrate the most outstanding new international retail and leisure experience by awarding a special prize to the destination that has delivered the most customers, the best offering and the most dynamic approach to property development.

And the winner is, The Beach Dubai, UAE

Competition was so fierce in this category that a Highly Commended Award was also presented, and this went to, Virgin Megastore, Yas Mall, Abu Dhabi

Global RLI Award for International Shopping Centre - Sponsored by MK-Illumination

Recognising the contribution made by shopping centres in providing customer care, good presentation, maintenance and cleanliness, this award also pays particular attention to high levels of service, diversity of offer and design excellence.

And the winner is, Yas Mall, Abu Dhabi, UAE

Competition was so fierce in this category that a Highly Commended Award was also presented, and this went to, Center 66, Wuxi, China

Global RLI Award for Shopping Centre Renovation - Sponsored by Arabian Oud

This award will be presented to a centre that demonstrates innovation in its renovation through architecture and design, how it has contributed to the overall regeneration of the town, city or area, its contribution to the local community and the steps it has taken to improve sustainability.

And the winner is, Marina Bay Sands, Singapore

Competition was so fierce in this category that a Highly Commended Award was also presented, and this went to, CapitaMall Jinniu, Chengdu, China

Global RLI Award for UK Retailer - Sponsored by Schwitzke

This award honours a UK retail business that can truly be described as having had an exceptional year. Our judges will be looking for strong financial performance, in-store innovation and proven customer service.

And the winner is, Godiva

Global RLI Award for International Retailer - Sponsored by TGM Consultants

This award offers the opportunity to honour the international retailer that has achieved great things in the past year. Our judges looked for innovation, brand values and store innovation. Strong financial performance and a clear development strategy were also essential.

And the winner is, Giordano International

Global RLI Award for Middle East Retailer - Sponsored by Colliers International

A new category for 2015, this award recognises those retailers that have achieved growth, innovation and exceptional performance in the Middle East. Our judges are looking at financial performance, portfolio growth and customer satisfaction.

And the winner is, M.H. Alshaya Co

Global RLI Award for Emerging Market Retailer - Sponsored by Dana Holdings

This award will be presented to an emerging market retailer that best represents the essential retail qualities of entrepreneurship, originality and flexibility. Our judges looked for a business that can demonstrate that they have a robust and growing retail format whilst examining the part it is playing in the development of the emerging economies.

And the winner is, Mothercare

Global RLI Award for Global Leisure Operator - Sponsored by Benoy

This award is a tribute to the international leisure operator that has shown the strongest performance, whilst offering the customer an innovative and exciting brand and maintaining global recognition.

And the winner is, Emaar Retail LLC

Competition was so fierce in this category that a Highly Commended Award was also presented and this went to, KidZania

Global RLI Award for Hospitality - Sponsored by Coverpoint Consultancy

The number of restaurants, clubs and bars opening throughout the world is truly staggering and there is no shortage of choice. This category aims to reward quality, diversity and genuine global expansion.

And the winner is, Big Chefs

Global RLI Award for Developer - Sponsored by Design International

This award is designed to highlight the best new retail and leisure schemes from the most successful and exciting development company of the last 12 months, with an emphasis on diversity, innovation and, of course, the 'wow' factor.

And the winner is, Emaar Properties PJSC

Competition was so fierce in this category that a Highly Commended Award was also presented and this went to, Asala Holding Company

Global RLI Award for Designer - Sponsored by M.H. Alshaya Co

This award is a tribute to the designer that consistently and accurately delivers the value of a brand to both business and customers. Our judges have examined both the design process, its objective and, most importantly, the results.

And the winner is, RTKL

Global RLI Award for Contractor - Sponsored by POP Retail

Honouring innovative and trail-blazing companies, this award acknowledges the importance of the contractor's role in the successful completion of any retail and leisure development. The judges have examined project portfolios, safety records and site presentation, amongst other factors.

And the winner is, Clements Retail

Global RLI Award for Interior Excellence - Sponsored by Balmic Contracting Services

This award acknowledges the importance of the shopfitter's role in the successful completion of any retail or leisure development. The award also recognises the company's understanding of a client's needs, their contribution to the design process and their innovative use of space and materials.

And the winner is, Schwitzke & Partner for Virgin Megastore, Yas Mall, Abu Dhabi

Competition was so fierce in this category that a Highly Commended Award was also presented and this went to, Beck Interiors for Watches of Switzerland, Regent Street, London

Global RLI Award for Rising Star of the Year - Sponsored by SFD

This award recognises the entrepreneurial spirit, achievements and long-term ambitions of smaller up-coming retail businesses.

And the winner is, Phase Eight

Once all the awards had been handed out, I completed my closing speech and invited everyone over to the Sky Bubble Lounge for the after party. With a free premium bar on offer until 3am, the evening went on into the early hours as everyone celebrated a fantastic evening.

The 10th anniversary events in Dubai have been an overwhelming success and we look forward to bringing you two more exceptional events in 2016.

RLI Connect Lands in Dubai

As the dust begins to settle, there is now an opportunity to look back at the third instalment of RLI Connect. The world's only global retail & leisure property deal-making forum took place on the 1st and 2nd June, and for the first time it was held outside of London in the picturesque setting of Dubai, within the grounds of the Meydan Racecourse.

The response we have had since we announced RLI Connect would take place in Dubai has been fantastic. I would like to take this opportunity to thank our event sponsors, beginning with our continuous Headline Sponsor for RLI Connect, Sands Retail, part of Las Vegas Sands Corporation and a world leader in the development of integrated resort destinations. I would also like to thank the Gold Sponsor Place Vendome, Qatar along with the Silver Sponsor Red Sea Mall, Saudi Arabia who continued their association with the event by also sponsoring for the third successive year.

I set off for Dubai on the 22nd May to assist with the on-site preparations, with the rest of the RLI Connect and Awards teams flying out on the 29th. With time over the weekend to set-up the venue, we were all ready for the largest RLI Connect so far...

With over 300 people confirmed to attend, we were ready for the fast start on Monday 1st June. It commenced with an early breakfast and introductory networking session before the copious amount of meetings commenced. With 27 individual Meeting Rooms over two floors of the Meydan Racecourse, dedicated Networking Lounge, RLI Showcase area and the World Franchise Associates lounge, people were never far from a new contact, an introduction or that all important meeting.

A more prominent factor this year was the amount of additional people who arrived at the event on the first morning wanting to register for the event, enabling additional networking opportunities for those already registered. This was never more evident than during lunch as the main networking lounge was bristling with people eager to make new connections and explore future opportunities.

Additional meetings and networking opportunities continued well into the afternoon. As the first day of RLI Connect began to draw to a close, all attendees were invited to the Cocktail & Networking Party, in association with Brands International, which took place on the floor above RLI Connect in the Sky Bubble Lounge. Canapés, a complimentary bar and a terrace setting with stunning views of the Dubai skyline as the daylight faded, changed the ambiance of the event to allow a more relaxed networking atmosphere. The setting offered people the chance to strike up fresh connections after a day of pre-planned meetings with targeted companies and attendees.

With thanks again to our Party Sponsor, Brands International, the evening was concluded with the first day closing speech and a free prize draw. Ten lucky winners were chosen to receive a free outfit at any Brands International store.


The second day began in very similar fashion to the first, with people meeting up at breakfast and networking before scheduled meetings began. Once again there were people who had heard about the event and turned up on the day to sample what RLI Connect can offer, an unparalleled mix of networking and meetings with top names in the industry in a high-intensity environment within a unique setting.

RLI has grown from a one day event in its first year, to 1 1/2 days in year two, to 2 full days in this its 3rd year and it is something we are looking at continuing next year. Meetings and networking sessions continued to run throughout the day and very few people left before the event concluded as opportunities continued to arise. (A group of three people even turned up half an hour after the event closing time looking to register.)


As we packed up at the end of a successful two days, albeit tired, we all felt invigorated with new ideas and strategies to take the event forward and to continue to improve and expand RLI Connect globally... we hope you will join us for the next edition.   

Welcome to 2015

Firstly, I would like to wish you all a very happy New Year from all the team at RLI. We hope you have all enjoyed the break and are ready to kick on in 2015.

As the calendar rolls into 2015, our focus increases on our two upcoming events that will bring the world of retail together in Dubai from the 1st - 3rd June. The first of these events is RLI Connect 2015, which marks the first time the event will not take place in London, as we look to expand the global nature of the event and position RLI Connect in one of the most recognisable shopping destinations in the world. RLI Connect 2015 will take place across two full days on the 1st and 2nd June at the Meydan Racecourse.

Taking place alongside RLI Connect 2015 on the 3rd June is the world-renowned Global RLI Awards, which is celebrating its 10th Anniversary year, and will be an event not to be missed. The Awards offers continued networking opportunities along with a 4-course meal, evening's entertainment and of course, the Awards ceremony itself, with 18 different categories available for entry, for which the nominations deadline is 31st January.


Before this however, we are keeping one eye firmly on the first issue of the year, which is due to hit desks in the last week of January. The February issue is set to include interviews with Nicole Farhi and Adore Cosmetics, along with a look at ITC Hotels and a voyager section highlighting Russia. In addition to this the issue will have a preview of the fast approaching MIPIM event and with the usual news sections and retail and leisure insights included; this issue will start the New Year off on a high note.

I will be working simultaneously on the upcoming issue along with managing my usual hectic schedule, which this month will see me out of the office travelling from Friday the 9th until the beginning of February.

The trip will first take me to Dubai, where I have meetings in place to finalise the location for the Global RLI Awards. From here I will then travel to Cairo to be a part of a UK Trade Delegation from the 12th - 16th, to gain a better understanding of the largest consumer market in the MENA region with a population of 90 million. Then it is back to Dubai for a week of meetings, followed by a two-day stay in Doha. Then it is back to Dubai one more time before a trip to Iran from the 27th - 29th to attend the 5th Retail Conference on January 28th and 29th which is organised by the Maad Retail Study Center. I will be speaking on the evolution of Retail: Mapping both regional and international Retail Trends to stay one step ahead of the competition. With a population of 80 million and with 300 shopping centres under construction, The Islamic Republic of Iran is set to be one of the fastest growing markets in the region over the next 3-5 years.



We will of course regularly keep you up-to-date with all the key announcements regarding RLI Connect and the 10th Global RLI Awards on this blog, announcements will also be made via our Twitter account which you can follow at https://twitter.com/RLIConnect

Wishing you all a fantastic 2015, see you in Dubai.

The RLI Summer

It's been a while, but we can now look forward to a glimmer of sunshine and the happy holiday season! I hope that when many of you read this you will have just returned from an exotic holiday feeling refreshed and ready for the adventures that lie ahead in the world of retail.

At RLI we have now had some time to reflect on our two hugely successful events that took place in London at the beginning of June. The second RLI Connect event at Chelsea Football Club produced a fantastic 2-day event with a list of attendees from around the world. This was followed just a few hours later by the 9th Global RLI Awards which took place in the incredible setting of the Natural History Museum, where a West-End show and a four-course meal entertained the guests before the event culminated with the 2014 Global RLI Awards Ceremony. Since the two events we have completed our summer issue of RLI, which included the 2014 Winners Brochure as well.

Now that the chaos is finally out of the way, we at RLI look forward to a small breather during the summer, before getting the September issue of RLI ready to hit desks in late August. However for me, things are never quite that easy, and although I didn't think my diary could be more packed than last year, it looks as if I will be eating my words before too long! As I write this I am preparing for a short family holiday before jetting off to Dubai w/c 3rd August, with lots of meetings lined up as next year RLI plans to host its Tenth Anniversary Events in Dubai, so venues to look at and partners and sponsors to find... final details will be confirmed soon. If anyone is interested in the events, and would like a chance to discuss possibilities, let me know if you are available at any time during that week by emailing jayne.rafter@rli.uk.com

For now though, I am getting ready for a short break before the retail travelling season gets underway.

Till next time...

9 Years and Counting

After the pandemonium of the RLI Connect event, there was barely time to breathe before the build-up to the 9th Global RLI Awards began. After attempting, and failing to get in a quick power nap, I got myself ready and arrived at the Natural History Museum for the world-renowned RLI Awards Gala Dinner.

The museum put in a turnaround that was monumentally quick and while guests enjoyed the champagne reception and the chance of a photograph on the MK Illumination 'Throne', I made sure everything was ready before joining the guests and greeting old friends. Everyone was then called to their seats and we all enjoyed a fantastic four-course meal with wine as we waited for the West End Musical of 'Dirty Dancing'. The show was a spectacular way to get everyone in the party mood and heighten the anticipation for the Awards Presentation.

Once the stage was set, the main event got underway, and the winners of the Global RLI Awards 2014 are...

Global RLI Award for Future Project - Sponsored by Thor Equities

This category rewards those future projects that are not yet under construction. Our panel have judged architectural excellence, innovation in materials, equipment, new techniques and the positive impact that each development will have upon the local community.

And the winner is, Izmit Town Centre, Turkey

Global RLI Award for Most Innovative Multi-Channel Retailing Concept - Presented by ECE

Multi-channel retail lies at the heart of the new shopping landscape and this category, new for 2014, recognises those retailers or shopping centre developers that demonstrate excellence and innovation in the integration of all on- and off- line channels to enhance the customer experience.

And the winner is, Red Sea Mall, Saudi Arabia

Global RLI Award for Most Innovative Retail & Leisure Concept - Sponsored by Leslie Jones Architecture

Celebrating the most outstanding contribution to retail and leisure conceptualisation over the past year, this category rewards the company that has taken a brand and created an extraordinary experience for the customer.

And the winner is, Level Shoe District, Dubai

Competition was so fierce in this category that a Highly Commended Award was also presented, and this went to, KidZania, Kuwait

Global RLI Award for International Retail & Leisure Destination - Sponsored by Marina Home

In this category, the judges will celebrate the most outstanding new international retail and leisure experience by awarding a special prize to the destination that has delivered the most customers, the best offering and the most dynamic approach to property development.

And the winner is, The Galleria, Abu Dhabi

Global RLI Award for International Shopping Centre - Sponsored by MK Illumination

Recognising the contribution made by shopping centres in providing customer care, good presentation, maintenance and cleanliness, this award also pays particular attention to high levels of service, diversity of offer and design excellence.

And the winner is, Trinity Leeds, UK

Competition was so fierce in this category that a Highly Commended Award was also presented, and this went to, Emporia, Sweden

Global RLI Award for Shopping Centre Renovation - Sponsored by Haskoll

This award will be presented to a centre that demonstrates innovation in its renovation through architecture and design, how it has contributed to the overall regeneration of the town, city or area, its contribution to the local community and the steps it has taken to improve sustainability.

And the winner is, Shoppes at Four Season, Macao

Global RLI Award for International Outlet Centre - Presented by Nicole Farhi

With many observers viewing the outlet centre as a possible spearhead for economic recovery, this award celebrates the increasing popularity of the outlet model with shoppers and developers alike. The aim of this category is to reward innovation and design-led excellence that offers both retailers and customers the very best in terms of brand and community cohesion.

And the winner is, Fashion House Moscow

Global RLI Award for UK Retailer - Sponsored by UK Trade & Investment

This award honours a UK retail business that can truly be described as having an exceptional year. Our judges will be looking for strong financial performance, in-store innovation and proven customer service.

And the winner is, Boux Avenue

Competition was so fierce in this category that a Highly Commended Award was also presented, and this went to, Blue Inc

Global RLI Award for International Retailer - Sponsored by TriGranit Management Corporation

This award offers the opportunity to honour the international retailer that has achieved great things in the past year. Our judges looked for innovation, brand values and store innovation. Strong financial performance and a clear development strategy were also essential.

And the winner is, Hamleys

Global RLI Award for Emerging Market Retailer - Sponsored by Red Sea Mall

This award will be presented to an emerging market retailer that best represents the essential retail qualities of entrepreneurship, originality and flexibility. Our judges looked for a business that can demonstrate that they have a robust and growing retail format whilst examining the part it is playing in the development of the emerging economies.

And the winner is, Parfois

Global RLI Award for Global Leisure Operator - Presented by Swire Properties

This award is a tribute to the international leisure operator that has shown the strongest performance, whilst offering the customer an innovative and exciting brand maintaining global recognition.

And the winner is, KidZania

Global RLI Award for Hospitality - Presented by BCSC

The number of restaurants, clubs and bars opening throughout the world is truly staggering and there is no shortage of choice. This category aims to reward quality, diversity and genuine global expansion. The nominee must be an operator with a minimum of six outlets and an international presence.

And the winner is, Trinity Kitchen, UK

Competition was so fierce in this category that a Highly Commended Award was also presented, and this went to, Long Island Resorts, Seychelles

Global RLI Award for Developer - Sponsored by Design International

This award is designed to highlight the best new retail and leisure schemes from the most successful and exciting development company of the last 12 months, with an emphasis on diversity, innovation and, of course, the 'wow' factor.

And the winner is, TriGranit Management Corporation

Global RLI Award for Designer - Presented by SES Spar European Shopping Centers

This award is a tribute to the designer that consistently and accurately delivers the value of a brand to both business and customers. Our judges have examined both the design process, its objective and, most importantly, the results.

And the winner is, Design International

Competition was so fierce in this category that a Highly Commended Award was also presented, and this went to, 5+design

Global RLI Award for Contractor - Presented by National Association of Shopfitters

Honouring innovative and trail-blazing companies, this award acknowledges the importance of the contractor's role in the successful completion of any retail and leisure development. The judges have examined project portfolios, safety records and site presentation, amongst other factors.

And the winner is, Portview

Competition was so fierce in this category that a Highly Commended Award was also presented, and this went to, Clements Retail

Global RLI Award for Interior Excellence - Presented by 5+design

This award acknowledges the importance of the shopfitter's role in the successful completion of any retail or leisure development. The award also recognises the company's understanding of a client's needs, their contribution to the design process and their innovative use of the space and materials.

And the winner is, Umdasch for Doha International Airport, South Terminal, Qatar

Competition was so fierce in this category that a Highly Commended Award was also presented, and this went to, Beck Interiors for Selfridges, Denim Studio

Global RLI Award for Rising Star of the Year - Sponsored by Sands Retail

This award recognises the entrepreneurial spirit, achievements and long-term ambitions of smaller up-coming retail businesses.

And the winner is, Charming Charlie

After all the awards had been handed out and all the pictures taken, all that was left to do was surprise everyone by saying where the after party was. The night then continued into the small hours at Boujis, where everyone enjoyed the complimentary drinks.

All that's left for me to say is that I won't be a stranger on here, and for everyone to keep an eye out for details about next year's 10th annual Global RLI Awards which will take place in a secret location, with details to be announced soon.

See you on my travels...

To view the gallery from the awards, please visit http://www.rli.uk.com/awards/2014/awardsgallery/