28th December 2012
Well it's extremely warm in Singapore which beats the Manchester cold weather a couple of heavy showers but so far so good! Visited the Shoppes at Marina Bay sands...what an impressive development! I can see why it won our International Retail & Leisure Destination of the year at this years Global RLI Wards. Stunning shop Designs and interiors, the Louis Vuitton store is an iconic landmark on the water epitomising imagination and innovation in its design. An impressive array of global brands, Celebrity Restaurants, Casino, Theatres, Open spaces all add together to make this a must visit worldwide destination. I have visited many shopping centres around the world but this has to be one of my favourites if not the top of my list.
Saturday 29 December 2012
Friday 21 December 2012
Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year
I’m Jayne Rafter, Publisher of RLI, the world’s only global
retail & leisure magazine and I’m here to wish you all a very merry
Christmas from the RLI Team!
I’d also like to take this opportunity to thank all you who
have helped make 2012 another successful year for RLI and we look forward to
even greater success in 2013 with the launch of ‘The World’s First Global Retail &
Leisure Property Deal-Making Forum’, under its networking brand RLI Connect.
Taking place on the 5th June in London, the world’s retail capital
for International retailers, the thinking behind it is simple… face-time with
key global retail & leisure decision makers. This will be held alongside
the renowned Global RLI Awards on the 6th June, which in its 8th
year attracts key industry figures, on a global scale.
So until the new… heres wishing all our readers a very merry
Christmas and a happy and prosperous new year!”
RLI Connect announces Silver Sponsor
RLI Connect, is pleased to announce Red Sea Mall, Saudi
Arabia as a 'Silver Sponsor' of the first Global Deal-Making Event to be held
in London, the world's retail capital, on 5th June 2013. The thinking behind it
is simple face-time with key global retail & leisure decision makers. The
event will be held alongside the renowned Global RLI Awards taking place on the
6th June at the prestigious Natural History Museum in London - two dates that
should be at the very top of everyone's social calendar for next year… two
events where 'Business Meets Pleasure', across the globe.
"Red Sea Mall" is the largest shopping center
located on the famous King Abdul Aziz Road which is in the northern suburbs of
Jeddah city in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia hosting a bouquet of global brands
under one roof. With major anchors like the Danube Supermarket, Pottery Barn,
Mother Care, H&M, Paris Gallery, Al Sawani Department Store, Oceania FEC
and Pizza Italia, Adolfo Dominguez, Burberry, Ferrari, Dunhill, Juicy Couture,
to name a few, Red Sea Mall is the major attraction for all members of the
family. The mall also hosts more than
14 cafes, 8 casual dining restaurants and 24 food court outlets with more than
400 seats and a pleasant atmosphere.
Other facilities include 3400 car parks, a Five Stars Hotel and 6 floors
offices building. For Further information visit:
Ensure you do not miss out on these must-attend events of
2013, for further details please click onto www.rliconnect.com
or www.rli.uk.com/awards/2013,
Other sponsorship opportunities available.
Retailers sign up for your complimentary registration
now, giving you that all-important opportunity to meet the right people
face-to-face through effectively organised, pre-arranged meetings with
international developers, all under one roof, allowing you to present your
brand expansion plans, form new partnerships and conclude deals, saving you
both time and money… it won't cost you a penny, but could save you thousands!
The event is organised by Retail & Leisure International,
'the world's only global retail & leisure magazine'. Dedicated to the
retail & leisure markets, the magazine incorporates global news, specialist
features, profiles and regular sections including property, legal, design,
investment & technology, all combined to offer the reader an insight and
analysis into the impact of retail & leisure property development on the
industry as a whole.
Monday 19 November 2012
15th November
15th November
The sun was shining and everyone seemed to be in bright spirits as they poured into the Palais for the day ahead I was surprised at how busy it was so early...the focus this year definitely seemed to be on more work and less partying! I had a busy schedule today with two panel sessions:
First, “The path to discovering Arabian Gold”, with
The second was "Outlet retailing: secrets for success", with Iestyn Roberts, Chief Executive-Freeport Retail; Phil Cottingham, Head of Retail, Quintain Estates & Development PLC, Sebastian Sommer, Neinver; Carmine Rotondaro, Worldwide Real Estate Director, PPR Group; John Devine, President Subway and Chris Kan, Subway. Another success with Developers queuing to hand out their cards to Subway and Gucci.
Another successful day of meetings finished with cocktails with the Benoy girls Valerie and Amy, followed by a Fashion Show hosted by PTAK Outlet at the Majestic Hotel.
First, “The path to discovering Arabian Gold”, with 
The second was "Outlet retailing: secrets for success", with Iestyn Roberts, Chief Executive-Freeport Retail; Phil Cottingham, Head of Retail, Quintain Estates & Development PLC, Sebastian Sommer, Neinver; Carmine Rotondaro, Worldwide Real Estate Director, PPR Group; John Devine, President Subway and Chris Kan, Subway. Another success with Developers queuing to hand out their cards to Subway and Gucci.
Another successful day of meetings finished with cocktails with the Benoy girls Valerie and Amy, followed by a Fashion Show hosted by PTAK Outlet at the Majestic Hotel.
Sunday 18 November 2012
MAPIC 2012 opens its doors...
14th November
After a beautiful opening cocktail at the Majestic,
participants woke early in eager anticipation for the days events. I had meetings from 8.30 am and didn't leave the Palais until after 7pm but all in all a very productive day.
Exhausted and in need of a little relaxation I abandoned a couple of party's in favour of a few cocktails with friends Mike and Lea...naughty but nice!
A relaxing dinner and an early night...Midnight! Well for Cannes that is!
Lets Party...
13th November
I arrived in Cannes early afternoon and checked in
at the Carlton Hotel before enjoying a leisurely lunch with Chris Lord.
We were all set for MAPIC, the magazines once again
had pride of place in all the Delegate bags, Principal hotels and Business
lounge at the Palais Des Festivals...so all that was left was to have a
productive 3 days of meetings.
Each year, MAPIC kicks off in style with a
high-profile cocktail party, giving all Delegates the chance to engage with key
industry players in a lively social setting. This year was no exception
held at the Majestic Hotel, the opening cocktail, sponsored by Russian
Developer Tashir, was a huge
success. The Russian country of honour logo was all aglow on the
facade of the building, emphasising their important presence here
this year. Their was much buzz about the Diamond Party hosted by
Tashir, as they distributed glasses of champagne with a ‘sparkling diamond’
inside. Participants then hurried to diamond experts to verify the authenticity
of the sparkling gem. There were 8 lucky winners who walked away with the real
deal!
Sadly I wasnt one of the lucky ones...but hey I had the next 3 days to look forward to!
Tuesday 13 November 2012
RECon MENA awaits...
12th November
Enlivening and thought provoking sessions adorned the first day of RECon MENA. I especially enjoyed the discussion between Derek Barker and Phil McArthur...lots of banter and audience participation
We had a wonderful lunch at One & Only The Palm having taken the luxurious boat across from One & Only Dubai...sheer opulence with cream leather captain seats for all guests..thanks again Ishwar, if there was an award for entertaining you would win hands down!
After the conference it was a quick change for the awards dinner followed by drinks with industry friends and colleagues.
Sadly I will miss the second day of RECon MENA as I fly to MAPIC so it's goodbye for another year.
Until 2013...
Enlivening and thought provoking sessions adorned the first day of RECon MENA. I especially enjoyed the discussion between Derek Barker and Phil McArthur...lots of banter and audience participation
We had a wonderful lunch at One & Only The Palm having taken the luxurious boat across from One & Only Dubai...sheer opulence with cream leather captain seats for all guests..thanks again Ishwar, if there was an award for entertaining you would win hands down!
After the conference it was a quick change for the awards dinner followed by drinks with industry friends and colleagues.
Sadly I will miss the second day of RECon MENA as I fly to MAPIC so it's goodbye for another year.
Until 2013...
Day off...
11th November
I think my body clock is wiped out since I woke up at 7 and could'nt get back to sleep...so what did I do? Worked:(
Spent a couple of hours by the pool then had lunch with Mike & Lea at Paul's in Dubai Mall. Chilled for the rest of the day and tried to recuperate some energy for for the conference tomorrow.
How can chilling be such hard work...I guess it's something I'm not used to!
I think my body clock is wiped out since I woke up at 7 and could'nt get back to sleep...so what did I do? Worked:(
Spent a couple of hours by the pool then had lunch with Mike & Lea at Paul's in Dubai Mall. Chilled for the rest of the day and tried to recuperate some energy for for the conference tomorrow.
How can chilling be such hard work...I guess it's something I'm not used to!
Sunday 11 November 2012
A fond farewell...
10th November
Happy birthday to my sister today..Well the time has come to say a tearful goodbye to my friends as I continue my travels and they return to their families...safe travels...I'm going to miss you!
A much needed relaxing day by the pool was in order followed by a little shopping with my friend Lea Humar.
before we both joined Mike Ellis for an extremely chilled and relaxing evening at Calabar in the Address Hotel sipping strawberry mojitos.
We finished the evening at the Al Manzil Hotel smoking shisha...a hilarious experience which, I hasten to add I'm very bad at...but I managed to entertain the others by pulling it over and burning a hole in my dress and myself. It's probably a good job I don't smoke!
A great evening!
Happy birthday to my sister today..Well the time has come to say a tearful goodbye to my friends as I continue my travels and they return to their families...safe travels...I'm going to miss you!
A much needed relaxing day by the pool was in order followed by a little shopping with my friend Lea Humar.
before we both joined Mike Ellis for an extremely chilled and relaxing evening at Calabar in the Address Hotel sipping strawberry mojitos.
We finished the evening at the Al Manzil Hotel smoking shisha...a hilarious experience which, I hasten to add I'm very bad at...but I managed to entertain the others by pulling it over and burning a hole in my dress and myself. It's probably a good job I don't smoke!
A great evening!
Goodbye Hong Kong
9th November
After saying goodbye to friends and colleagues at the show...though not the end of the road for all as a few are either going on to Dubai like myself for RECon MENA or onto Cannes for MAPIC...I returned to pack and get ready for our return trip.
A long wait ahead as our flight back to Dubai wasn't until 12.40am but it gave us time for some last minute shopping and time to chill and reflect on the last seven days... The girls had had an amazing time but were exhausted and could'nt understand how I do this all the time...and they were'nt even working. You just get used to it!
It has been great to have someone to travel with and it will be sad when they leave me at the airport in Dubai to return to Manchester without me.
Still two more trips to go...
After saying goodbye to friends and colleagues at the show...though not the end of the road for all as a few are either going on to Dubai like myself for RECon MENA or onto Cannes for MAPIC...I returned to pack and get ready for our return trip.
A long wait ahead as our flight back to Dubai wasn't until 12.40am but it gave us time for some last minute shopping and time to chill and reflect on the last seven days... The girls had had an amazing time but were exhausted and could'nt understand how I do this all the time...and they were'nt even working. You just get used to it!
It has been great to have someone to travel with and it will be sad when they leave me at the airport in Dubai to return to Manchester without me.
Still two more trips to go...
Day two ...Mipim Asia
8th November
A bright and early start even though I didn't get to bed until 3am...but hey isn't that what it's all about Networking...that's the part I like most about my job! That and presenting.
Two panel sessions today...the first with John Devine,Subway and Carmine Rotondaro, PPR Group - two very different retail success stories yet both equally successful. The second,'Best Practices for successful retail expansion into Asia with Ishwar Chugani, Giordano; Eric Lee, Bossini and Filipe Correia, Parfois. A great combination...one retailer looking to expand across Asia, one looking to expand outside and one look to expand into Asia.
In the evening I caught up with mike and Lea, 5+ Design and an old friend Linda Patton, ex 5+ Design for a few drinks at the Four Seasons Hotel before joining my friends at the knight Frank party...always the annual not to be missed party, where the who's who of the retail world join together at Mipim Asia.
We finished our last evening in HK with a much-awaited visit for my friends to Aqua where we chilled with mojitos looking across a spectacular night view of HK. A quick visit to the Peninsula Hotel before hitting our beds at 3am.
A great finale to a wonderful trip for the girls and for me well it's two trips down ...two to go!
A bright and early start even though I didn't get to bed until 3am...but hey isn't that what it's all about Networking...that's the part I like most about my job! That and presenting.
Two panel sessions today...the first with John Devine,Subway and Carmine Rotondaro, PPR Group - two very different retail success stories yet both equally successful. The second,'Best Practices for successful retail expansion into Asia with Ishwar Chugani, Giordano; Eric Lee, Bossini and Filipe Correia, Parfois. A great combination...one retailer looking to expand across Asia, one looking to expand outside and one look to expand into Asia.
In the evening I caught up with mike and Lea, 5+ Design and an old friend Linda Patton, ex 5+ Design for a few drinks at the Four Seasons Hotel before joining my friends at the knight Frank party...always the annual not to be missed party, where the who's who of the retail world join together at Mipim Asia.
We finished our last evening in HK with a much-awaited visit for my friends to Aqua where we chilled with mojitos looking across a spectacular night view of HK. A quick visit to the Peninsula Hotel before hitting our beds at 3am.
A great finale to a wonderful trip for the girls and for me well it's two trips down ...two to go!
Mipim Asia awaits...
7th November
Surprisingly I awoke at 10 am remarkably refreshed since I only got to bed at 6 am...unlike my friends who were feeling very delicate and didn't rise until after noon.
I met Michael Ellis and Lea Humar 5 + Design at breakfast and after a much needed coffee we went to register for the conference.
My first panel session 'successful roll outs in Asia with Desigual, Pacific Coffee and C&A went really well and I received great feedback.
I met up with lots of friends at the cocktail party and bizarrely was approached by two people in the space of 5 minutes asking if I was Jayne Rafter they remembered me from the India Retail Forum in 2008... The girl who wore a bright pink sari with coloured crystals...the things that get you remembered maybe I should take it out of the closet!
I met up with the girls for Dinner, they had enjoyed an afternoon at the Ladies market.
We were joined by good friends Filipa Fernandes from SES Spar Shopping Centers and Filipe Corrria, Parfois. During our scrumptious international buffet we were joined by Ishwar Chugani and celebrity icon Morgan Parker who left his position as CEO Taubman Asia to set up a charitable organisation called 'Wheel to Wheel' where he travelled across 10 countries on his bike helping different charities along the way... You can follow his travels on Facebook or watch his incredible journey on National Geographic.
A great evening...good fiends, good company, good food, good wine who could ask for more!
Surprisingly I awoke at 10 am remarkably refreshed since I only got to bed at 6 am...unlike my friends who were feeling very delicate and didn't rise until after noon.
I met Michael Ellis and Lea Humar 5 + Design at breakfast and after a much needed coffee we went to register for the conference.
My first panel session 'successful roll outs in Asia with Desigual, Pacific Coffee and C&A went really well and I received great feedback.
I met up with lots of friends at the cocktail party and bizarrely was approached by two people in the space of 5 minutes asking if I was Jayne Rafter they remembered me from the India Retail Forum in 2008... The girl who wore a bright pink sari with coloured crystals...the things that get you remembered maybe I should take it out of the closet!
I met up with the girls for Dinner, they had enjoyed an afternoon at the Ladies market.
We were joined by good friends Filipa Fernandes from SES Spar Shopping Centers and Filipe Corrria, Parfois. During our scrumptious international buffet we were joined by Ishwar Chugani and celebrity icon Morgan Parker who left his position as CEO Taubman Asia to set up a charitable organisation called 'Wheel to Wheel' where he travelled across 10 countries on his bike helping different charities along the way... You can follow his travels on Facebook or watch his incredible journey on National Geographic.
A great evening...good fiends, good company, good food, good wine who could ask for more!
Hong Kong Delights
6th November
After a pleasant flight the girls arrive in Hong Kong and boy were they excited. First stop the Peak we caught the tram which took us on an amazing almost vertical journey to one of the highest points in HK when we arrived the girls were stunned at the phenomenal views across the whole of Hong Kong (pic to follow). We had a lovely Dinner at the Peak Lookout one of my favourite restaurants in HK and then met up with Ishwar Chugani (MD Giordano) and his friends in Lan Kwai Fong who as usual didn't fail to impress as he entertained us in true Ishwar style until 5am...so much for an early night but it was well worth it!
Good job my panel session was in the afternoon tomorrow...goodnight!
After a pleasant flight the girls arrive in Hong Kong and boy were they excited. First stop the Peak we caught the tram which took us on an amazing almost vertical journey to one of the highest points in HK when we arrived the girls were stunned at the phenomenal views across the whole of Hong Kong (pic to follow). We had a lovely Dinner at the Peak Lookout one of my favourite restaurants in HK and then met up with Ishwar Chugani (MD Giordano) and his friends in Lan Kwai Fong who as usual didn't fail to impress as he entertained us in true Ishwar style until 5am...so much for an early night but it was well worth it!
Good job my panel session was in the afternoon tomorrow...goodnight!
Monday 5 November 2012
All work and no play
5th November
An early start this morning, I had a full packed day ahead Chairing the inaugural Future Retail Conference, my second such role in the last few weeks...a new career maybe? I met
Some old friends its always great to catch up...it makes me feel like I've never been away.
The conference was a great success and I felt at home in my new role. There were some great speakers and an array of brands spanning from the US and Europe to across the Middle East including Neiman Marcus, Tiffany, Boutique 1, adidas, List, Campo Marzio and a live link in from Chicago with Gordon Segal, Founder of US retailer Crate & Barrel.
The panel sessions were enlightening and thought provoking and I was
complimented several times on my speaking and moderating skills.
The Conference ended with my infamous on-the-couch interview with Carmine Rotondaro, Global Real Estate Director for the PPR Group, who I will be seeing again in Hong Kong in a couple of days for a repeat performance at MIPIM Asia...at this rate I will be working for Gucci...mmm! The thought of all those clothes and accessories. Apparently Gucci have merchandise exclusive to a particular region so global travellers can shop wherever they go and be assured they have a unique purchase...if only I had a bottomless budget!
The perfect end to the day was an interview with Ignaz Gorischek, VP Stores and Development, Neiman Marcus for the December/January issue of RLI...don't miss it!
It is now 03.35 am and I am on the plane bound for Hong Kong so see you when I arrive.
Signing off...before I get my iPad taken off me!
An early start this morning, I had a full packed day ahead Chairing the inaugural Future Retail Conference, my second such role in the last few weeks...a new career maybe? I met
Some old friends its always great to catch up...it makes me feel like I've never been away.
The conference was a great success and I felt at home in my new role. There were some great speakers and an array of brands spanning from the US and Europe to across the Middle East including Neiman Marcus, Tiffany, Boutique 1, adidas, List, Campo Marzio and a live link in from Chicago with Gordon Segal, Founder of US retailer Crate & Barrel.
The panel sessions were enlightening and thought provoking and I was
complimented several times on my speaking and moderating skills.
The Conference ended with my infamous on-the-couch interview with Carmine Rotondaro, Global Real Estate Director for the PPR Group, who I will be seeing again in Hong Kong in a couple of days for a repeat performance at MIPIM Asia...at this rate I will be working for Gucci...mmm! The thought of all those clothes and accessories. Apparently Gucci have merchandise exclusive to a particular region so global travellers can shop wherever they go and be assured they have a unique purchase...if only I had a bottomless budget!
The perfect end to the day was an interview with Ignaz Gorischek, VP Stores and Development, Neiman Marcus for the December/January issue of RLI...don't miss it!
It is now 03.35 am and I am on the plane bound for Hong Kong so see you when I arrive.
Signing off...before I get my iPad taken off me!
A Retailers Dream...a husbands nightmare!
Sunday 4th November
Slept until 10am which is so unlike me as I had planned to be soaking up the rays before 9. Spent the morning by the pool before jetting off on a speed boat for Georgina to do some wake boarding...very impressive! Though I did have a slight heart attack the first time she fell in the water!
We took a taxi to Dubai Mall early afternoon had lunch at Pauls, a great British Patisserie! we then went to visit Kidzania one of my favourite concepts, I had arranged a tour for the girls and they were suitably impressed. Next on the agenda was shopping... Oh boy can us girls shop! Several bags, shoes and sunglasses later we returned to the hotel laden with our purchases. Too exhausted to go out, we had room service and finished packing with a bottle of champagne. An early night beckons...an important day tomorrow chairing the Future Retail Conference, moderating panel sessions and a finale on the couch interview with Gucci.
Until tomorrow...Ma' Asalam
Slept until 10am which is so unlike me as I had planned to be soaking up the rays before 9. Spent the morning by the pool before jetting off on a speed boat for Georgina to do some wake boarding...very impressive! Though I did have a slight heart attack the first time she fell in the water!
We took a taxi to Dubai Mall early afternoon had lunch at Pauls, a great British Patisserie! we then went to visit Kidzania one of my favourite concepts, I had arranged a tour for the girls and they were suitably impressed. Next on the agenda was shopping... Oh boy can us girls shop! Several bags, shoes and sunglasses later we returned to the hotel laden with our purchases. Too exhausted to go out, we had room service and finished packing with a bottle of champagne. An early night beckons...an important day tomorrow chairing the Future Retail Conference, moderating panel sessions and a finale on the couch interview with Gucci.
Until tomorrow...Ma' Asalam
Friday 2 November 2012
If only Gucci had wings...
After two months of travelling the big one has finally arrived...two solid weeks of hopping on and off planes to 4 of the biggest global retail real estate events. first stop Dubai (one of my favourite places) for the Future Retail Conference 5-7 November, i'm looking forward to catching up with old friends and colleagues. Then it's off to Hong Kong early hours of Tuesday for Mipim Asia 7-9 November, back to Dubai on the 10th November in time for RECon MENA 11-13 November and finally to Cannes on the 13th November for this years much awaited Mapic.
2nd November
Where's Jayne...
Join me on my travels over the next 14 days as i update you on whats happening at the events and what I'm up to as I jet from Dubai to Hong Kong, back to Dubai and onto Cannes.
Girls on tour...Manchester's Sex and the City
The best part of my forthcoming world wind trip is that 3 of my closest friends are accompanying me on the first two legs. Georgina, Yvonne and Sophy...it all started on a girls night out last Christmas and they said how much they would love to come with me to Dubai, so I set the wheels in motion. They are so excited at the prospect of going to Dubai and Hong Kong that I hope that the last 9 months of planning, waiting and excitement pay off and it's everything they've anticipated. We are staying at the Jumeirah Beach Hotel and I've organised a special tour of the Burj Al Arab with afternoon tea for tomorrow afternoon and then a special Dinner with Tomasso Cavalli, Roberto Cavalli's son tomorrow evening at the Cavalli club in the Fairmont Hotel Dubai...very excited as he's one of my favourite Designers, would love to get an interview for RLI , with his dad that is. A visit to Kidzania in Dubai Mall is planned for Sunday afternoon, one of my favourite concepts , I've talked about it that much I just have to show them. Then it's a little shopping...well one has to indulge when in Dubai, after all I always say "I'm a retailers dream and a husbands nightmare!" Sunday night we will explore the Madinat and take a trip to the Palm for cocktails and hopefully catch up with a few friends:)
Monday it's all work and no play...
I am now chairing the first day of the Future Retail Conference on the 5th November as well as moderating 3 panel sessions and one keynote interview with Carmine Rotondaro, Global Worldwide Real Estate Director of the PPR Group...a full packed agenda but I'm looking forward to it and its great profile for RLI.
Signing off until Dubai...see you on my travel)
2nd November
Where's Jayne...
Join me on my travels over the next 14 days as i update you on whats happening at the events and what I'm up to as I jet from Dubai to Hong Kong, back to Dubai and onto Cannes.
Girls on tour...Manchester's Sex and the City
The best part of my forthcoming world wind trip is that 3 of my closest friends are accompanying me on the first two legs. Georgina, Yvonne and Sophy...it all started on a girls night out last Christmas and they said how much they would love to come with me to Dubai, so I set the wheels in motion. They are so excited at the prospect of going to Dubai and Hong Kong that I hope that the last 9 months of planning, waiting and excitement pay off and it's everything they've anticipated. We are staying at the Jumeirah Beach Hotel and I've organised a special tour of the Burj Al Arab with afternoon tea for tomorrow afternoon and then a special Dinner with Tomasso Cavalli, Roberto Cavalli's son tomorrow evening at the Cavalli club in the Fairmont Hotel Dubai...very excited as he's one of my favourite Designers, would love to get an interview for RLI , with his dad that is. A visit to Kidzania in Dubai Mall is planned for Sunday afternoon, one of my favourite concepts , I've talked about it that much I just have to show them. Then it's a little shopping...well one has to indulge when in Dubai, after all I always say "I'm a retailers dream and a husbands nightmare!" Sunday night we will explore the Madinat and take a trip to the Palm for cocktails and hopefully catch up with a few friends:)
Monday it's all work and no play...
I am now chairing the first day of the Future Retail Conference on the 5th November as well as moderating 3 panel sessions and one keynote interview with Carmine Rotondaro, Global Worldwide Real Estate Director of the PPR Group...a full packed agenda but I'm looking forward to it and its great profile for RLI.
Signing off until Dubai...see you on my travel)
Thursday 18 October 2012
Not Forgotten
Its been a while...but I've not forgotten you! I am writing this having just stepped off a plane from
Barcelona from yet another successful ICSC European Outlet Conference. Quite literally the last few weeks have been a
whirlwind of travel and conferences with a blur of time zones, not knowing what
planet I’m on yet alone which continent. I feel a bit like Felix Baumgartner, spinning through the air at the speed of sound, only I havn't broken any world records or become a world phenomenon but I have dropped back down to Earth just in time to finish putting the November issue to bed, our biggest issue to date... I for one can't wait to see it in print, with lead interviews from Macy's, Crate & Barrel & Hard Rock International and profiles on some of the key players in the world of retail all combined with global insights and country focuses.
That aside it’s been an interesting few weeks and as always I love catching up with you all whilst learning even more about the incredible world of Global retail. Shanghai was amazing...apart from falling down the stairs in the conference auditorium and badly spraining my ankle (enough said).
Spending a couple of days in Abu Dhabi, with a stay in the innovatively designed Yas Hotel, adjacent to Ferrari World and an inspiring tour of the ultimately luxurious Emirates Palace Hotel, including 18 carat gold encrusted coffee and sumptuous Dinner at the 'Le Vendôme Brasserie', courtesy of new new Hotel Manager, Alexander Schneider made it a memorable trip.
I fly to Dubai on the 2nd November for Future Retail 5-7 November, where I am moderating a panel session on 'Future Branding' followed by an on-the-couch interview with Carmine Rotondaro, Worldwide Real Estate Director, PPR Group - Luxury brands (Gucci, Bottega Veneta, Yves Saint Laurent, Alexander McQueen, Balenciaga, Boucheron, Girard Perregaux, JeanRichard, Sergio Rossi and Stella McCartney) then it’s off to Hong Kong for MIPIM Asia 7-9 November where I am presenting two panel sessions: The first, ‘A retail success story’- The story of how a simple idea became one of the world’s most successful fashion brands / corporations with John Devine, President - Director, Subway Real Estate and again Carmine Rotondaro, followed by ‘Retail expansion: best practices for a successful roll out in Asia’. After Hong Kong its back to Dubai for RECon MENA 11-13 November, before embarking on the final leg of my worldwind trip to Nice for this years much awaited MAPIC 14-16 November, where once again I am moderating two panel sessions: 'The path to discovering Arabian Gold' and 'Outlet Retailing - Secrets for Success'.
If you are attending any of the above events and would like to learn more about RLI, our Deal-Making Event or just have a cosy chat (preferably over a glass of wine) feel free to email me jayne.rafter@rli.uk.com
I look forward to seeing you on my travels!
That aside it’s been an interesting few weeks and as always I love catching up with you all whilst learning even more about the incredible world of Global retail. Shanghai was amazing...apart from falling down the stairs in the conference auditorium and badly spraining my ankle (enough said).
I was impressed with Shanghai IFC Mall, a six-storey
world class shopping mall with an exciting and contemporary interior designed by Benoy, more than 110,000 square meters provide a
spectrum of finest retail offerings to the best international luxury brands. The
mall plays host to China’s most deluxe, international brands including an iconic
Apple store, the world’s finest culinary delights and premiere cinema complex
development. All in all: A Remarkable Shopping Experience!
Spending a couple of days in Abu Dhabi, with a stay in the innovatively designed Yas Hotel, adjacent to Ferrari World and an inspiring tour of the ultimately luxurious Emirates Palace Hotel, including 18 carat gold encrusted coffee and sumptuous Dinner at the 'Le Vendôme Brasserie', courtesy of new new Hotel Manager, Alexander Schneider made it a memorable trip.
I fly to Dubai on the 2nd November for Future Retail 5-7 November, where I am moderating a panel session on 'Future Branding' followed by an on-the-couch interview with Carmine Rotondaro, Worldwide Real Estate Director, PPR Group - Luxury brands (Gucci, Bottega Veneta, Yves Saint Laurent, Alexander McQueen, Balenciaga, Boucheron, Girard Perregaux, JeanRichard, Sergio Rossi and Stella McCartney) then it’s off to Hong Kong for MIPIM Asia 7-9 November where I am presenting two panel sessions: The first, ‘A retail success story’- The story of how a simple idea became one of the world’s most successful fashion brands / corporations with John Devine, President - Director, Subway Real Estate and again Carmine Rotondaro, followed by ‘Retail expansion: best practices for a successful roll out in Asia’. After Hong Kong its back to Dubai for RECon MENA 11-13 November, before embarking on the final leg of my worldwind trip to Nice for this years much awaited MAPIC 14-16 November, where once again I am moderating two panel sessions: 'The path to discovering Arabian Gold' and 'Outlet Retailing - Secrets for Success'.
If you are attending any of the above events and would like to learn more about RLI, our Deal-Making Event or just have a cosy chat (preferably over a glass of wine) feel free to email me jayne.rafter@rli.uk.com
I look forward to seeing you on my travels!
Wednesday 3 October 2012
LAST CHANCE TO BOOK...RLI- The World’s only global retail magazine is in all Delegate bags at MAPIC, Cannes; Future Retail, Dubai; MIPIM Asia, Hong Kong; RECon MENA, Dubai.
I am pleased to announce that this year RLI has once again been chosen to be inserted into every delegate bag at Future Retail, Dubai; MIPIM Asia, Hong Kong, RECon MENA, Dubai and MAPIC, Cannes, due to the phenomenal response received from Delegates & Participants at previous events.
With exposure at 4 big annual Retail Real Estate Events the November issue of RLI will have an increased circulation of over 40,000 copies with a readership in excess of 200,000 giving an unrivalled opportunity to promote your services to key players in the retail and leisure sectors worldwide.
Within the issue RLI are also working with each of the shows to produce handy guides to essential information including Conference sessions and networking opportunities to enable you to plan your trips in advance. This will include an extended MAPIC Insight into global retail, MIPIM Asia Insight and our Annual Focus on MENA.
Despite the increased circulation for this issue, advertising rates have not been increased although due to weight restrictions for the Delegate Bags, advertising will be restricted and therefore only accepted on a first-come-first-served basis, should you wish to take up this prime opportunity, please telephone +44 (0) 1706 212200 or email me.
A4 Full Colour Advertisement £2250
1/2 page Full Colour Advertisement £1250
1/3 page Full Colour Advertisement £995
Don’t miss out get in touch now…jayne.rafter@rli.uk.com
Friday 17 August 2012
RLI Announces Global Deal--Making Event
The World’s First Global Retail & Leisure Property Deal-Making Forum brought to you by RLI Connect…Face-time with key global retail & leisure decision makers.
Shop till you drop for those all-important deals
RLI Connect brings for the first time a sustained platform for doing business and building value through strategic partnerships on a global scale.
Jayne Rafter, Publisher of RLI Magazine and Founder of RLI Connect, says “Based on several recent conversations with Developers, finding the right mix of retailers & leisure operators to fill their new and existing shopping malls is becoming one of the biggest challenges they face. They are looking for new and innovative concepts to enhance the shopping experience, throughout my whole career I have always put a strong emphasis on interacting with each other face-to-face to forge stronger synergistic relationships…and this is what RLI Connect will do.”
In these critical times for the retail & leisure real estate industry, achieving effective results demands a paradigm shift that can only be realized with exposure to new thoughts and ideas. RLI Connect will be a networking and deal-making forum, comprising of retailers, leisure operators, franchise partners, developers, shopping centre owners, investors, brokers, attorneys, leasing executives, property managers, architects and other affiliated companies associated within the industry. We aim to attract the largest number of actively growing retail and leisure concepts internationally, as well as the hottest up-and-coming concepts! Just think…weeks of impersonal emails and phone calls can instead be accomplished in ONE DAY, resulting in long-lasting, profitable relationships and that all-important deal!
“A friendship founded on business is a good deal better than a business founded on friendship.”
John D. Rockefeller
AND THE DEALS GET DONE!
No Conference or panel sessions just a high energy forum providing a more focused venue for networking and deal-making with the combination of moving existing deals along and being introduced to new deals. This is your chance to collaborate and share knowledge with top performers in the retail real estate industry.
In the fast paced retail & leisure market, key players have an entrepreneurial opportunity to search for a best fit match for their project, if you are ready, willing and able to do deals, then this is the event for you.
Your next great deal is waiting at the RLI Connect Deal-Making Forum, if you want to know who’s doing what - building new projects, renovating existing ones, seeking space to lease - all in the confines of a total business environment…then get in touch!
For more information email jayne.rafter@rli.uk.com
or visit the new website here www.rliconnect.com
Its been a while...
Its been a hectic few months hence the distinct lack of posts...over the next few days I will be updating my blog with the latest developments in my hectic schedule. I am currently bracing myself myself for the challenges of intense travelling and conferences that the next 3 months will bring.
The RLI team will be at this year’s BCSC Expo in Liverpool 10-12 September stand no H32, dont forget to visit us, whilst I jet off to Shanghai for the ICSC World Summit 12-14 September. Then it’s off to the World Retail Congress, London 19-21 September, before heading off to Zagreb for the inaugural SEE Retail Matchmaking Event 27-28 September, where RLI is working with Real Estate Databank to bring together Retailers and Developers to sign those all-important deals…If you are a retailer looking to open stores or a developer looking to lease space in Austria, Hungary, Bulgaria, Romania, Slovenia, Croatia, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Macedonia, Montenegro and Turkey, this would be a perfect opportunity for you...so get in touch!
Watch out for my next blog as RLI has an important announcement to make...
Friday 22 June 2012
Global RLI Awards 2012 - The Winners
Held at the Natural History Museum in London on 14 June 2012, Retail and Leisure International’s (RLI) seventh annual Global RLI Awards yet again provided a thrilling evening in recognition and celebration of the most visionary and innovative retail and leisure concepts from across the globe.
At a time when the global economic crisis has brought a number of challenges for the retail and leisure sectors, the Global RLI Awards 2012 showcased some of the best projects the world has seen over the last 18 months.
Guests enjoyed a spectacular gala dinner at the coveted awards ceremony in the museum’s grand Central Hall. Entertainment was provided in the form of highlights from the superb hit West End musical, Jersey Boys, and there was of course that all-important opportunity to network with friends, colleagues and new business acquaintances from across the globe.
What follows are the evenings award winners. We'll also be featuring further photographs from the evening on our website and through our facebook page which can be found here and here.
Our first award of the evening was for the Gobal RLI 2012 Future Project Award sponsored by Location Group - This category rewards those future projects that are not yet under construction. Our panel have judged architectural excellence, innovation in materials, equipment, new techniques etc, and the positive impact that each development will have upon the local community.
Our first award of the evening was for the Gobal RLI 2012 Future Project Award sponsored by Location Group - This category rewards those future projects that are not yet under construction. Our panel have judged architectural excellence, innovation in materials, equipment, new techniques etc, and the positive impact that each development will have upon the local community.
....and the winner is Doha Festival City, Qatar!
Next up was the Gloabal RLI 2012 Sustainability Awards which was sposored by Spar European Shopping Centers - This award recognises and rewards those businesses at the forefront of sustainable thinking, design and implementation in the retail and leisure industries. The winner will show leadership in its positive approach to protecting the environment and in developing excellent sustainability practices in procurement and development, energy efficiency and micro-generation as well as employment.
....and the winner is ISG!
Our Gloabal RLI 2012 for Most Innovative Retail & Leisure Concept was a hard fought category with only points between the top candidates and was sponsored by Rawls. - This category celebrates the most outstanding contribution to retail and leisure conceptualisation over the past year and rewards the company that has taken a brand and created an extraordinary experience for the customer.
....and the winner is Morocco Mall, Casablanca!
Next up was our Gloabal RLI award for International Retail and Leisure Destination sponsored by Aedas - 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 Westfield Stratford City, UK!
Our Global RLI Award for International Shopping Centre was sponsored by First Christmas - 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 The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore!
The Global RLI Award for Shopping Centre Renovation came next sponsored by 5+design - 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 Forum Sintra, Portugal!
The Global RLI Award for International Outlet Centre was sponsored by Haskoll Architects and Designers - 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 McArthurGlen Designer Outlet, Athens!
The Global RLI Award for UK Retailer 2012 was sponsored by St Davids Partnership - 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 Superdry!
The Global RLI Award for International Retailer 2012 was sponsored by Doha Festival City - 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 Clarks!
The Global RLI Award for Emerging Market Retailer 2012 was sponsored by TGM, TriGranit Management Corporation - 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!
The Global RLI Award for Outlet Retailer 2012 was sponsored by London Designer Outlet - This award will be given to the most outstanding outlet retailer that demonstrates their commitment to the sector through expansion, promotional campaigns, marketing programmes, visual merchandising, and their overall professionalism as a retail operator in international outlet centres.
....and the winner is Osprey London!
The Global RLI Award for Global Leisure Operator 2012 was sponsored by Cumberland - 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 Kidzania!
The Global RLI Award for International Restaurateur 2012 was sponsored by Coverpoint Consultancy - The restaurant scene has its work cut out, the number of restaurants across the globe is truly staggering, so there is no shortage of choice. The aim of this category is to reward quality, diversity and genuine global recognition. ....and the winner is TGI Friday's!
The Global RLI Award for Developer 2012 was 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 Multi Development.
The Global RLI Award for Designer 2012 was sponsored by Overbury - 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.
business and customers. Our judges have examined both the design process, its objective and, most importantly, the results.
...and the winner is Haskoll!
The Global RLI Award for Contractor 2012 was presented by the National Association of Shopfitters and Interior Contractors - 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 Patton!
The Global RLI Award for Interior Excellence 2012 was presented by the British Retail Consortium - 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 ISG for Bread Street Kitchen, London!
The Global RLI Award for Rising Star of the Year 2012 was sponsored by ISG - This award recognises the entrepreneurial spirit, achievements and long-term ambitions of smaller up-coming retail businesses.
....and the winner is Boux Avenue!
....and the winner is Boux Avenue!
The battle to win some of our categories was so close, there was litterally only points between the winners and runners-up; so this year we decided to give a highly commended award to some of the outstanding candidates.
Here is Marina Mall. Doha, picking up their Highly Commended award for RLI Future Project 2012.
Here we have Sandton City with their Highly Commended Award for RLI Shopping Centre Renovation 2012.
Finally we have D- Cube City picking up the Highly Commended Award for International Retail & Leisure Destination 2012.
Thanks to everyone who took part in this years Global RLI Awards, we hope to see you all again next year when we return to the Natural History Museum on the 6th of June 2013.
Monday 18 June 2012
Global RLI Awards 2012 - A night to remember!
Held at the Natural History Museum in London on 14 June 2012, Retail and Leisure International's (RLI) seventh annual Global RLI Awards yet again provided a thrilling evening in recognition and celebration of the most visionary and innovative retail and leisure concepts from across the globe.
At a time when the global economic crisis has brought a number of challenges for the retail and leisure sectors, the Global RLI Awards 2012 showcased some of the best projects the world has seen over the last 18 months.
Guests enjoyed a spectacular gala dinner and the coveted awards ceremony in the museum's grand Central Hall. Entertainment was provided in the form of highlights from the superb hit West End musical, Jersey Boys, and there was of course that all-important opportunity to network with friends, colleagues and new business acquaintances from across the globe.
In her opening speech, RLI Publisher Jayne Rafter said: "Ours is an industry with innovation in its DNA and tonight we reward those companies that never stop asking questions, never stop raising the standard and never settle for anything less than the best."
And the winners are!
RLI Future Project 2012
Sponsored by Location Group
Winner: Doha Festival City, Qatar
Highly commended: Marina Mall, Doha
RLI Sustainability 2012
Sponsored by Spar European Shopping Centers
Winner: ISG
RLI Most Innovative Retail and Leisure Concept 2012
Sponsored by Rawls
Winner: Morocco Mall, Casablanca
RLI International Retail and Leisure Destination 2012
Sponsored by Aedas
Winner: Westfield Stratford City, UK
Highly commended: D-Cube City, South Korea
RLI International Shopping Centre 2012
Sponsored by First Christmas
Winner: The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore
RLI Shopping Centre Renovation 2012
Sponsored by 5+design
Winner: Forum Sintra, Portugal
Highly commended: Sandton City, South Africa
RLI International Outlet Centre 2012
Sponsored by Haskoll
Winner: McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Athens, Greece
RLI UK Retailer 2012
Sponsored by St David's Partnership
Winner: Superdry
RLI International Retailer 2012
Sponsored by Doha Festival City
Winner: Clarks
RLI Emerging Market Retailer 2012
Sponsored by TriGranit Management
Winner: Parfois
RLI Outlet Retailer 2012
Sponsored by London Designer Outlet
Winner: Osprey London
RLI Global Leisure Operator 2012
Sponsored by Cumberland
Winner: KidZania
RLI International Restaurateur 2012
Sponsored by Coverpoint Consultancy
Winner: TGI Friday's
RLI Developer 2012
Sponsored by Design International
Winner: Multi Development
RLI Designer 2012
Sponsored by Overbury
Winner: Haskoll
RLI Contractor 2012
Presented by National Association of Shopfitters
Winner: Patton
RLI Interior Excellence Award 2012
Presented by British Retail Consortium
Winner: ISG for Bread Street Kitchen, London
RLI Rising Star of the Year Award 2012
Sponsored by ISG
Winner: Boux Avenue
The Global RLI Awards 2013 will be held at the Natural History Museum, London, on 6 June 2013. For more information, please contact the RLI events team on +44 (0) 1706 212200, or email jayne.rafter@rli.uk.com. Alternatively visit www.rli.uk.com
Ensure that you do not miss out on the hottest event on the retail industry calendar by booking your place early!
Wednesday 2 May 2012
Shopping in Berlin
Berlin has a lot in store for shopping sprees. From wickedly expensive temples of consumption overflowing with designer labels to flea and antique markets, shopping malls, bargain stores and the whole spectrum in between. Following this year’s ICSC Conference, we took a little time out to visit a few of the shopping centres.
Forum Steglitz
We started off with the oldest shopping centre in Germany Forum Steglitz which opened in 1970 on the grounds of the old weekly market. At that time, the shopping centre over 32,000 square metres was the first shop-in-shop shopping centre in Germany. Schloßstraße gradually grew to become a shopping area. The last major new addition was the Schloss, a historic shopping centre over 4,000 square meters where three radio stations have their studios.
Boulevard Berlin
Boulevard Berlin (by far my favourite) by Multi Development Germany is located in the middle of Schloßstraße at the site of the former Wertheim and Karstadt department stores. It is one of the largest inner-city retail centers in Germany, with a rental space of 76,000 m², about 160 rental units for retail stores, services and dining concepts and a fitness center. The €390 million project in Berlin-Steglitz sets a new quality standard in design and comfortable shopping experiences.
Due to its size and prominent position, the center has special importance in the urban construction and design-based upgrading of the Schloßstraße. The redesign of the Wertheim and Karstadt stores was guided by careful city planning combined with high quality architecture. Access to Boulevard Berlin is by its own integrated Metro station as well as the city highway and 850 parking spaces; all providing excellent conditions for a fully integrated inner city centre.
Alongside anchor tenants Karstadt, Karstadt sports and Saturn, are Douglas, New York, comma, Hall, Huber, H & M, Zara, Esprit, Oliver, Cotton On, Mexx, Gerry Weber, Selected, Desigual, G Star, Promod. Hollister and Zara Home also open their first stores in Berlin in Boulevard Berlin.
Potsdamer Platz
Besides being an architectural gem, Potsdamer Platz is also known for its very lively scene of cultural attractions, fancy hotels, gourmet and other good restaurants, and shopping opportunities.
Arkaden
Right in the centre of the New Berlin just off Potsdamer Platz is the 'Arkaden'. This lively shopping mall spreads over three floors in a pleasant, airy setting. It is not a centre of luxury but a shopping centre for everyone in the heart of the city, creating a new connection between east and west in the new city centre. Opened in 1998, the three-storey shopping street with its glass roof dazzles with modern architecture, designed by the brilliant architect Renzo Piano.
The centre is home to 140 shops with textiles, designer goods, shoes and a good choice of gastronomic selections, many cafés and an Italian ice-cream parlour which make the Arkaden a popular meeting place before or after a movie at the nearby Cinestar in the Sony Center - where non-dubbed films are screened in the original version.
The centre is home to 140 shops with textiles, designer goods, shoes and a good choice of gastronomic selections, many cafés and an Italian ice-cream parlour which make the Arkaden a popular meeting place before or after a movie at the nearby Cinestar in the Sony Center - where non-dubbed films are screened in the original version.
The Sony Center
The Sony Center is a Sony-sponsored building complex located at the Potsdamer Platz in Berlin, Germany. It opened in 2000. The centre was designed by Helmut Jahn at a total cost of €750M. He has created a trend-setting complex of seven buildings covering a floor area of 26,000 square meters. The buildings are situated on the outer edges of the complex and the central triangular space is a thoroughfare for the public. It is covered in a tent like structure and landscaped with plants, which offers a natural atmosphere all year round. With its spectacular roof construction the Sony Center has become an internationally famous landmark of Berlin.
The Center was designed for a mixture of uses, which include cafes, apartments, restaurants, shops, cinemas, office space and entertainment venues. Berlin's Film Museum is located within the complex as is Sony's European headquarters. There is also an IMAX, 3D cinema.
The Center was designed for a mixture of uses, which include cafes, apartments, restaurants, shops, cinemas, office space and entertainment venues. Berlin's Film Museum is located within the complex as is Sony's European headquarters. There is also an IMAX, 3D cinema.
CineStar Original There’s nothing like the original, neither in real life nor in the magical world of cinema: On eight screens featuring innovative sound- and projection-technology the CineStar Original at the Sony Center offers Germany's widest choice of original language films and is the cosmopolitan heart of Berlin's cinematographic scene.
Located in the Sony Center’s unique architecture, CineStar Original equally fascinates moviegoers and filmmakers: Big Hollywood stars like Johnny Depp, Angelina Jolie and Robert Pattinson regularly celebrate their film premieres in this spectacular venue.
Ka De We
Established in 1907, World famous Ka DeWe department store on Wittenbergplatz is a must for its Food Halls and international designer labels. With over 60,000 square metres of selling space and more than 380,000 articles available, it is the second largest department store in Europe, trumped only by Harrods in London. It attracts up to 180,000 customers each day from around the world catering for a wide range of needs with luxurious beauty rooms and lounges, a wedding and gift service, a hotel and home service, tailor, hairdressers, buggy rental and a bureau de change. In its world-famous gourmet department on the sixth floor, Berlin's premium department store even plays host to exclusive parties high above the roofs of the city.
Thursday 26 April 2012
IS BIG BEAUTIFUL?
Trends & influences are moving faster than ever and this year's ICSC European Conference held in Berlin, 18-20 April, provided the ideal platform for 550 attendees to learn from thought provoking panel sessions, knowledge share with industry peers and colleagues and network with key industry figures from the shopping centre industry.
The theme "IS BIG BEAUTIFUL," looked at ‘Big’ from every angle: From Investment ambitions, retailer strategy, retail development goals and the industry’s success in having its critical role within the European economy acknowledged.
Secondary shopping centres fight against newer and larger competition, but can secondary centres reinvent themselves to fight back?
Other Conference topics included:
THE IMPORTANCE OF DEPARTMENT STORES
GLOBAL OUTLOOK FOR REAL ESTATE
HARNESSING DIGITAL, MOBILE & SOCIAL MEDIA TO BOOST FOOTFALL
Patrick Delcol (Chair of the ICSC European Conference 2012 Planning Committee and Country Head of Poland for DTZ real estate consultancy) says, "Thanks to ICSC, the industry now speaks with one voice within the European Parliament. As a result, European directives on issues such as sustainability and planning strategies are changing in our favour as the EU acknowledges the huge investment and employment the industry delivers across the region.”
Here are some of Patrick's closing remarks and conclusions on the Conference theme 'Is Big Beautiful?'...
"Designing a big shopping centre is more difficult and the risks are bigger, according to our panel of architects. We heard that Clients will be more concerned with their investment, planning is more difficult and most importantly from a design and use point of view, the building must integrate into its environment.”
There is an appetite and demand for big centres, but it’s difficult, if not almost impossible to get planning consent for such buildings in Western Europe. Big shopping centres are now much more likely to be built in Russia, China and South America.
It’s not so much about size anyway – it's about the relevance of a centre, it’s location and what makes it run successfully. He added that the wrong size centre is more likely to blight, not benefit, the market.
Going large might be the ambition for developers seeking to provide a true leisure destination which has across-the-board customer appeal, there is also a definite trend for shopping centres back in the city centre, where architects must build to a scale which matches the surroundings. Such centres benefit their environment by being more than just commercial, but offering residential and office space too. Centres such as these can revitalise city centres – because there is just as much challenge for high streets to be relevant and accessible as there is for out of town shopping centres.
Whilst in Berlin I hosted a roundtable discussion ‘Mapping International Trends to stay one step ahead of the competition’ which was well received if you would like a copy of these trends feel free to email me jayne.rafter@rli.uk.com
On the Friday morning Chris and I met up with Filipa Fernandes, SES Spar European Shopping Centres; Wilner Anderson, Steen & Strom and Charles Larsson, Steen & Strom to visit a few shopping centres...I will post a new blog shortly with pics.
Bye for now!
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