As you can probably tell by the lack of blogging, it has been a manic start to the year. We were in full swing straight away in the RLI office after the Christmas break, getting the first issue of the year to the printers, but then we immediately had to start work on the March issue as we are once again in all the delegate bags at MIPIM 2014, on show in the principal hotels along the Croisette and last but not least in the press racks in the Palais Des Festivls, as such we had to send the magazine to the printers much earlier than usual.
However, I can now say that we have sent the March issue to the printers, and I have just stepped off the plane returning from EuroShop 2014 in Dusseldorf, where RLI joined ISO's Meeting Point (International Shopfitting Organisation) whose hospitality never ceases to amaze, thank you to Preben and Anna Bailey. The February issue of RLI was on show in front of 2,200 exhibitors from 57 countries. The event took place in a huge area of more than 115,000sq m of net exhibition space across 16 halls, and again the event gave the retail industry the basis for ideas, innovations, solutions, contacts and business.
Our MIPIM issue is as always bursting with all kinds of features, insights and profiles this year ready for the 25th Anniversary of MIPIM. The cover story for the issue is Arcus Real Estate, as we look into the many exciting retail and leisure destination projects they are currently working on. We also take a look into the forward-thinking plans Paris Gallery has to take its premium collections into new and exciting markets. The Voyager section for this magazine is a special MIPIM Insight, where we bring you an overview of the best of what is coming up in the areas of international retail, leisure and mixed-use developments. On top of this there is our annual focus on the global outlet sector, where we outline how the outlet centre is evolving and where in the world these outlets are opening. With all of this, plus all the usual retail and leisure insights, event previews, design profile and galleries, the MIPIM issue will be you best guide before and after MIPIM 2014.
As we build up to MIPIM 2014, I will be heading to London at the beginning of March to be present at the ICSC Retail Connections event, which takes place on the 4th March in London at the Business Design Centre, where the RLI March issue will be present. Following this event I have less than a week in the office before I head out to Cannes for the special 25th edition of MIPIM, taking place at the Palais Des Festivals between the 11th and 14th, it is shaping up to be the biggest ever with all the anniversary celebrations that appear to be in place. With an incredible 40,000sq m of exhibition space expected for the 2,000 exhibiting companies attending from over 80 countries, the event promises to bring together the most influential players from all international property sectors.
As MIPIM draws to a close on the Friday I will be heading home, but not for a weekend to recharge, obviously, but to pack as I'm then off to Dubai on the Saturday. Flying to Dubai is however, always worth it and I will be attending the UKTI GREAT Week UAE, as it takes place in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Taking place between the 16th and 20th of March with the RLI magazine on show, the event, which is one of many GREAT Week events taking place across the calendar year, will give UK-based businesses the opportunity to join government-led trade missions to meet major buyers, potential partners and influential opinion formers in the UAE market.
Before all this kicks of however, I have a couple of weeks in the office to catch up on emails, get started on the next issue of RLI, and of course work on the upcoming RLI Connect 2014 event and the Global RLI Awards 2014, which seem to be coming around even faster than last year. Lots to look forward to this year for me and for you!
See you on my travels...
Thursday, 20 February 2014
Tuesday, 7 January 2014
RLI hits the 2014 Ground Running
Welcome back everyone, I hope you have all had a fantastic break catching up with friends and family, eating too much, drinking too much, and have now returned fully energised for the exciting year that lies ahead!
We have been back in the office for just a couple of days now but we are already hard at work on several upcoming projects and focused on the immediate task of getting the RLI magazine back on your desk.
The February issue is coming along well and we have lots of exciting features for you to look forward to in our first issue of the New Year. The features include a close look at Twice Fashion, China's earliest and most influential fashion accessories brand in the Chinese market, retailing a wide range of accessories. The February issue will also highlight the Ipekyol brand, which is run by the Ayaydin-Miroglio Group, which operates 160 stores in Turkey and six stores overseas across its brands Machka, Twist and Ipekyol. Also in the magazine there will be a feature on a leading luxury retailer in the Middle East, Paris Gallery. This is the eponymous flagship brand of Paris Gallery Group, with over 1 million sq ft of luxurious shopping space and 40 stores located in prime retail addresses spanning the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Bahrain. We are also looking at One and Only Resorts, whose remote island retreats offer some of the most unique experiences in the world's best destinations. With a special feature on shop-fitting and a voyager section focused on the best developments Russia has to offer as well, the first magazine of 2014 will be worth the wait.
Now less than five months away, the momentum surrounding RLI Connect 2014, the must-attend deal-making event of 2014 continues to grow and we have new retailers and developers signing up on a regular basis.
On that note, I am also delighted to reveal that Red Sea Mall have retained their Silver Sponsorship package for the second RLI Connect event. This now means that all the sponsorship packages have been taken, so get in touch now via jayne.rafter@rli.uk.com to snap up a Meeting Room package before they too are all gone.
The Global RLI Awards 2014 is also in the works. Scheduled to take place on the 5th June following the completion of RLI Connect earlier in the day, the awards will offer a unique networking opportunity, 17 award categories, a three course meal, an excellent evening's entertainment and of course the infamous after party! For those who have attended RLI Connect the awards will also allow previous discussions to continue in a relaxed environment and offer even more deal-making opportunities.
After all the celebrations of the last few weeks, 2014 will see RLI celebrate its 100th issue, and it just so happens to fall on our yearly Mapic issue in November, so be sure to mark that one out in the calendar as it promises to be the biggest issue we have ever done.
Till next time...
We have been back in the office for just a couple of days now but we are already hard at work on several upcoming projects and focused on the immediate task of getting the RLI magazine back on your desk.
The February issue is coming along well and we have lots of exciting features for you to look forward to in our first issue of the New Year. The features include a close look at Twice Fashion, China's earliest and most influential fashion accessories brand in the Chinese market, retailing a wide range of accessories. The February issue will also highlight the Ipekyol brand, which is run by the Ayaydin-Miroglio Group, which operates 160 stores in Turkey and six stores overseas across its brands Machka, Twist and Ipekyol. Also in the magazine there will be a feature on a leading luxury retailer in the Middle East, Paris Gallery. This is the eponymous flagship brand of Paris Gallery Group, with over 1 million sq ft of luxurious shopping space and 40 stores located in prime retail addresses spanning the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Bahrain. We are also looking at One and Only Resorts, whose remote island retreats offer some of the most unique experiences in the world's best destinations. With a special feature on shop-fitting and a voyager section focused on the best developments Russia has to offer as well, the first magazine of 2014 will be worth the wait.
Now less than five months away, the momentum surrounding RLI Connect 2014, the must-attend deal-making event of 2014 continues to grow and we have new retailers and developers signing up on a regular basis.
On that note, I am also delighted to reveal that Red Sea Mall have retained their Silver Sponsorship package for the second RLI Connect event. This now means that all the sponsorship packages have been taken, so get in touch now via jayne.rafter@rli.uk.com to snap up a Meeting Room package before they too are all gone.
The Global RLI Awards 2014 is also in the works. Scheduled to take place on the 5th June following the completion of RLI Connect earlier in the day, the awards will offer a unique networking opportunity, 17 award categories, a three course meal, an excellent evening's entertainment and of course the infamous after party! For those who have attended RLI Connect the awards will also allow previous discussions to continue in a relaxed environment and offer even more deal-making opportunities.
After all the celebrations of the last few weeks, 2014 will see RLI celebrate its 100th issue, and it just so happens to fall on our yearly Mapic issue in November, so be sure to mark that one out in the calendar as it promises to be the biggest issue we have ever done.
Till next time...
Thursday, 19 December 2013
Getting in the Christmas spirit
Phew... the last few weeks have been a frenzied mix of hotels, events, planes and very little sleep. That means only one thing - it has been the travelling season!
November was a month where hectic would not do the schedule justice. Upon returning from South Africa near the beginning of the month I had a weekend to pack before I headed off to MAPIC. Quickly following this I had to prepare for three weeks away from the office. My first stop was Dubai in the UAE for the REcon Middle East and North Africa event. Then I was onto Beijing in China for the REcon Asia Conference, and then I was back to Dubai for the Future Retail event. It may be the most tiring time of year but the people, surroundings, events and opportunities make it more than worthwhile.
Now, after those three weeks and three events, two countries and two cities, I am back on home soil for the festive celebrations, although a build up to Christmas at home can be just as manic as travelling around the world I'm sure you'll agree.
The travelling really began with what was for me a short trip across the channel to Cannes for the MAPIC showcase, which this year took place in an atmosphere of growing optimism amongst the 8,300 delegates from over 70 countries. The huge event this year focused on omni-channel retailing strategies, the importance of leisure facilities in shopping malls, which was emphasized with the common use of the phrase retailtainment during the event, and the growth of retail real estate opportunities in prime locations and certain second-tier cities. Other highlights at the event included the MAPIC awards where this year the UK won big, and the highly anticipated opening cocktail party which offered a high-profile networking event which was open to all MAPIC participants.
After a couple of days at home following MAPIC, I was on the move again and heading off to Dubai for the REcon MENA event, which was the preeminent educational and networking conference for shopping centre industry professionals, retailers and owners in the region for 2013. The event examined how shopping centres in the MENA region remained resilient during the recession amid a changing financial climate. The conference also featured intense pre-conference workshops, conference sessions and panel discussions by industry experts and professionals that know the business inside and out.
After this event I was back on the plane and off to Beijing for the REcon Asia event which saw the largest gathering of industry professionals in the fastest-growing retail market in the world. The conference gave the ideal venue to discuss leasing opportunities, make deals and network with key decision makers. The program featured speakers from four continents who spoke about the pertinent issues affecting the futures of our business. The event also saw the 6th annual Asia-Pacific Shopping Center awards.
My final stop took me back to Dubai for the Future Retail event. In only its 2nd year the Future Retail event focused on the challenges faced by retailers looking to expand within the Middle East and North Africa. The event, after doing extensive research prior to the conference, focused on four main streams - 'Business Models', 'Location and Traffic', 'Customer Experience' and 'Marketing and E-tailing' to maximise the potential of this event.
Looking ahead into the New Year, the deadline for nominations for the Global RLI Awards 2014 expires on the 31st January 2014. Ensure you send your nomination across by then and don't miss out on the esteemed Global RLI Awards, which next year will be in its 9th year and will take place on the 5th June in the grand setting of the Natural History Museum. To book a table at this must-attend award ceremony just visit www.rli.uk.com/awards/2014/ and guarantee you and your company's seats NOW.
On the topic of RLI in 2014, let me take this opportunity to announce the newest additions to the RLI Connect 2014 event, Saburrito's, Ralph Lauren and Alshaya are the most recent retailers to have signed up to the ever increasing list of attendees. Expanded to take place over two days on the 4th and 5th June at Chelsea Football Club, with an early finish on the 5th to allow you to get ready for our awards, RLI Connect 2014 promises to be bigger and better than our inaugural RLI Connect event which took place this year. Take this chance to book your place now by visiting www.rliconnect.com and sign up to the must-attend deal-making event of 2014.
As we all make the final preparations for the Christmas holidays, myself and the RLI team would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year which will include the 100th issue of RLI, the world's only global retail and leisure magazine. I hope you all enjoy the break and come back re-invigorated for the year ahead.
Till next year...
November was a month where hectic would not do the schedule justice. Upon returning from South Africa near the beginning of the month I had a weekend to pack before I headed off to MAPIC. Quickly following this I had to prepare for three weeks away from the office. My first stop was Dubai in the UAE for the REcon Middle East and North Africa event. Then I was onto Beijing in China for the REcon Asia Conference, and then I was back to Dubai for the Future Retail event. It may be the most tiring time of year but the people, surroundings, events and opportunities make it more than worthwhile.
Now, after those three weeks and three events, two countries and two cities, I am back on home soil for the festive celebrations, although a build up to Christmas at home can be just as manic as travelling around the world I'm sure you'll agree.
The travelling really began with what was for me a short trip across the channel to Cannes for the MAPIC showcase, which this year took place in an atmosphere of growing optimism amongst the 8,300 delegates from over 70 countries. The huge event this year focused on omni-channel retailing strategies, the importance of leisure facilities in shopping malls, which was emphasized with the common use of the phrase retailtainment during the event, and the growth of retail real estate opportunities in prime locations and certain second-tier cities. Other highlights at the event included the MAPIC awards where this year the UK won big, and the highly anticipated opening cocktail party which offered a high-profile networking event which was open to all MAPIC participants.
After a couple of days at home following MAPIC, I was on the move again and heading off to Dubai for the REcon MENA event, which was the preeminent educational and networking conference for shopping centre industry professionals, retailers and owners in the region for 2013. The event examined how shopping centres in the MENA region remained resilient during the recession amid a changing financial climate. The conference also featured intense pre-conference workshops, conference sessions and panel discussions by industry experts and professionals that know the business inside and out.
After this event I was back on the plane and off to Beijing for the REcon Asia event which saw the largest gathering of industry professionals in the fastest-growing retail market in the world. The conference gave the ideal venue to discuss leasing opportunities, make deals and network with key decision makers. The program featured speakers from four continents who spoke about the pertinent issues affecting the futures of our business. The event also saw the 6th annual Asia-Pacific Shopping Center awards.
My final stop took me back to Dubai for the Future Retail event. In only its 2nd year the Future Retail event focused on the challenges faced by retailers looking to expand within the Middle East and North Africa. The event, after doing extensive research prior to the conference, focused on four main streams - 'Business Models', 'Location and Traffic', 'Customer Experience' and 'Marketing and E-tailing' to maximise the potential of this event.
Looking ahead into the New Year, the deadline for nominations for the Global RLI Awards 2014 expires on the 31st January 2014. Ensure you send your nomination across by then and don't miss out on the esteemed Global RLI Awards, which next year will be in its 9th year and will take place on the 5th June in the grand setting of the Natural History Museum. To book a table at this must-attend award ceremony just visit www.rli.uk.com/awards/2014/ and guarantee you and your company's seats NOW.
On the topic of RLI in 2014, let me take this opportunity to announce the newest additions to the RLI Connect 2014 event, Saburrito's, Ralph Lauren and Alshaya are the most recent retailers to have signed up to the ever increasing list of attendees. Expanded to take place over two days on the 4th and 5th June at Chelsea Football Club, with an early finish on the 5th to allow you to get ready for our awards, RLI Connect 2014 promises to be bigger and better than our inaugural RLI Connect event which took place this year. Take this chance to book your place now by visiting www.rliconnect.com and sign up to the must-attend deal-making event of 2014.
As we all make the final preparations for the Christmas holidays, myself and the RLI team would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year which will include the 100th issue of RLI, the world's only global retail and leisure magazine. I hope you all enjoy the break and come back re-invigorated for the year ahead.
Till next year...
Friday, 25 October 2013
Travelling to France, Brazil and South Africa - And that's just the magazine...
It's been a manic few weeks here at the RLI office, and the same for me juggling work with attending numerous events which have taken me around the globe in the past month. Back in the office, we have just put the finishing touches to our biggest magazine of the year, our MAPIC special, and we have sent it off to the printers ready to go in all the delegate bags at MAPIC 2013.
I have been back in the UK for over a week now, and it has been strange to sleep in the same place for more than one night at a time, with the recent travelling I have felt like I have been on a worldwide retail tour! My first stop took me to the CNIT La Défense Conference Centre in Paris for the World Retail Congress, which took place between the 7th and the 9th of October. At this years event, the first World Retail Congress event in a flurry of them worldwide, the October issue of the RLI magazine was on show throughout. Immediately following a day at this event I was back on a plane and heading to the New Munich Trade Fair Centre in, well you guessed it, Munich. The event was one of the largest on the real estate calendar and it was of course Expo Real, which this year took place between the 7th and the 9th of October. This year the RLI magazine enhanced its presence at this premium event with distribution racks in between all the exhibition halls giving unrivalled coverage to our advertisers and readers globally. Then from here I was on the move again, and this flight was not a quick hop over to another European country but a flight to Dubai for the Cityscape Global event. Held at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre over the 8th, 9th and 10th of October, it is a must-attend industry event that also had the RLI magazine on show. As you can tell, where I go, the magazine tends to follow! The only downside to this hectic schedule of visiting three countries in just five days was the fact that I could not spend as much time as I would have liked at each event, as all of these events coincided with one another, this arranging of events is hopefully something that organisers can improve upon for next year.
Once I arrived back at the office it was all systems go on the MAPIC edition of RLI, our biggest issue of the year. Included in this bumper magazine is a wide array of features, including a first for RLI, a gate-fold for Marina Home Interiors with an additional profile on pages 4-5. The cover for this MAPIC issue is Fashion House, as we discuss with the Managing Director Brendan O'Reilly how the recently opened Fashion House Moscow has been performing, and what is next in the pipeline for Fashion House. The magazine then opens with a who's who page featuring Jean-Claude Biver, CEO of Hublot. The huge MAPIC magazine has several lead interviews, including Bloomingdales, Blue Inc and Mothercare. Also in the magazine we have a 2-part special feature on Shopping Centre Management with opinion pieces by Eileen Connelly, and one from Richard Bailey of intu. With this issue being the MAPIC issue, it would not have been right to complete the magazine without an event feature on MAPIC 2013. There will be a MAPIC insight and a detailed 2-page conference schedule included.
Having completed the magazine and sent it off to the printers, the finished product will be on show at more retail events across the globe. The magazine will be at two huge World Retail Congress events that are taking place for the very first time this year. The first of these events is the World Retail Congress Latin America, which takes place at the WTC Sheraton in Sao Paulo, Brazil on the 31st October and the 1st November. The second event is the World Retail Congress Africa which is taking place at The Maslow in Johannesburg, South Africa over the 4th to the 6th of November. After these events the magazine will then be placed in all of the delegate bags at MAPIC 2013 as well as being on show throughout the biggest retail real estate event on the calendar. Taking place from the 13th to the 15th of November at the Palais des Festivals in Cannes, MAPIC 2013 is going to be a cracking event, and it is one I am very much looking forward to. I have booked my diary out so it will be a whirlwind few days. I am looking to hold several meetings at MAPIC with developers and retailers for next years RLI Connect which is already receiving a lot of enquiries, feel free to make an appointment by sending me an email. I am also holding a panel session on the opening day of MAPIC on Wednesday 13th November from 14:30 to 15:15 entitled "Middle East Miracle", and the session will focus on how the Middle East has emerged as a key market for retailers across the globe.
As for me, I'll soon be heading out to South Africa to be present at the first World Retail Congress Africa event, then I have the weekend to pack for MAPIC where I will hopefully see and catch up with all of you.
See you on my travels...
Thursday, 26 September 2013
Let the Whirlwind Commence...
A very exciting and hectic time of the year is once again upon me. After a couple of so-called quiet summer months, I have packed my bags and am off around the globe on a non-stop retail real estate event tour, and as always I am very eager to get cracking.
I have very much enjoyed the summer months; some holiday time with the family has been excellent, and it has also allowed me the chance to recharge in preparation for the busy build up to Christmas. However, as the summer slowly disappears, there is the extra surge of adrenaline and the feeling of exhilaration as the travelling season clicks into gear.
I warmed up for the schedule ahead with a recent trip to the BCSC Annual Showcase with two of my colleagues. This year, for the first time, the event was held in London at the Olympia. The switch to London appeared to have had the desired effect as the event saw 2,500 delegates make their way to Kensington. The event also marked the launch of a major international retailer programme which targets brands that are not yet active in the UK market. To find out more about this event you can read the full RLI Review of the BCSC Annual Showcase in our October issue.
Back at the office, the finishing touches were applied to the October issue of RLI before I jumped on the plane to Mumbai. Thankfully I managed to get on the plane and get to India thanks to some last minute help regarding my visa!
This most recent RLI magazine sees several exciting features included, with the regular 'Voyager' section focusing on Central Eastern Europe this month, which examines the retail development activity in selected city markets. Other features include a look at Hamleys, as we talk to CEO Gudjon Reynisson about the remarkable international expansion drive they are currently in. Also in this issue, RLI have an in-depth look at a leading hotel management company, Onyx Hospitality Group, and speak to CEO Peter Henley about how they intend to expand after recent success. On top of all this we have an excellent RLI Special Feature on 'Retail in Stadia', which, with the 2014 World Cup in Brazil edging nearer and nearer, looks in-depth at the evolution of the relationship between retail and shopping in and around stadiums.
Now that the first leg of my travelling is nearly complete, having attended the Indian Retail Forum, I will return from India over the weekend. However, I will only be on British shores for a few days, and I can tell you now that those days will be hectic as we begin to put our bumper MAPIC issue together. It is now the last chance for anyone wishing to participate in our most sought-after issue of the year, our November issue, to get in touch. We are in all the delegate bags at MAPIC 2013 and on show at the World Retail Congress Latin America and World Retail Congress Africa events. If anyone is interested please contact the RLI team on +44 (0)1706 212200 or email me at jayne.rafter@rli.uk.com and I look forward to hearing from you.
Following the few days in the UK working on the MAPIC issue, I head off again on a trip that will see me take in three countries in just five days as I make my way from one event to another. First up is Paris for the World Retail Congress event, then Munich for Expo Real and then finally I will be in Dubai for Cityscape Global. It can be a gruelling schedule, but its more than worth it all for the fantastic networking opportunities in such a short space of time so I say bring it on.
Will be back soon; see you on my travels...
I have very much enjoyed the summer months; some holiday time with the family has been excellent, and it has also allowed me the chance to recharge in preparation for the busy build up to Christmas. However, as the summer slowly disappears, there is the extra surge of adrenaline and the feeling of exhilaration as the travelling season clicks into gear.
I warmed up for the schedule ahead with a recent trip to the BCSC Annual Showcase with two of my colleagues. This year, for the first time, the event was held in London at the Olympia. The switch to London appeared to have had the desired effect as the event saw 2,500 delegates make their way to Kensington. The event also marked the launch of a major international retailer programme which targets brands that are not yet active in the UK market. To find out more about this event you can read the full RLI Review of the BCSC Annual Showcase in our October issue.
Back at the office, the finishing touches were applied to the October issue of RLI before I jumped on the plane to Mumbai. Thankfully I managed to get on the plane and get to India thanks to some last minute help regarding my visa!
This most recent RLI magazine sees several exciting features included, with the regular 'Voyager' section focusing on Central Eastern Europe this month, which examines the retail development activity in selected city markets. Other features include a look at Hamleys, as we talk to CEO Gudjon Reynisson about the remarkable international expansion drive they are currently in. Also in this issue, RLI have an in-depth look at a leading hotel management company, Onyx Hospitality Group, and speak to CEO Peter Henley about how they intend to expand after recent success. On top of all this we have an excellent RLI Special Feature on 'Retail in Stadia', which, with the 2014 World Cup in Brazil edging nearer and nearer, looks in-depth at the evolution of the relationship between retail and shopping in and around stadiums.
Now that the first leg of my travelling is nearly complete, having attended the Indian Retail Forum, I will return from India over the weekend. However, I will only be on British shores for a few days, and I can tell you now that those days will be hectic as we begin to put our bumper MAPIC issue together. It is now the last chance for anyone wishing to participate in our most sought-after issue of the year, our November issue, to get in touch. We are in all the delegate bags at MAPIC 2013 and on show at the World Retail Congress Latin America and World Retail Congress Africa events. If anyone is interested please contact the RLI team on +44 (0)1706 212200 or email me at jayne.rafter@rli.uk.com and I look forward to hearing from you.
Following the few days in the UK working on the MAPIC issue, I head off again on a trip that will see me take in three countries in just five days as I make my way from one event to another. First up is Paris for the World Retail Congress event, then Munich for Expo Real and then finally I will be in Dubai for Cityscape Global. It can be a gruelling schedule, but its more than worth it all for the fantastic networking opportunities in such a short space of time so I say bring it on.
Will be back soon; see you on my travels...
Friday, 6 September 2013
Building to BCSC and Beyond
Welcome back everyone, it appears summer is now officially over as we roll into September, well it certainly is here in the UK judging by the skies. I hope you all managed to make excellent use of the summer months and enjoyed some rest and relaxation. I managed to get away to Dubai and Egypt to recharge the batteries and spend some time with the family; some work was involved in both trips, but thankfully not too much.
Coming back into the office, there is lots of buzz and excitement as the retail event calendar kicks into overdrive. In the build up to Christmas my schedule will be more packed than my suitcase coming back from holiday.
In the short term, my immediate focus is the upcoming BCSC Showcase event taking place next week at the London Olympia from the 11-12th September, where RLI is a Media Partner for the event and the September issue of RLI will be on show throughout. Once I return from London I will have a few days grace before the travelling schedule begins.
First off I will be in Dubai on the 20th September for a few days of meetings and catch-ups. In Dubai, the RLI magazine will be on show at the Franchise UAE Expo 2013 on the 25-26th September, which is taking place at the Al Bustan Rotana Hotel. The RLI magazine will also be on show at the Retail Matchmaking Event 2013, which is being held at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Zagreb on the 25th September. I will then be heading over to Mumbai for the India Retail Forum, which will be taking place at The Renaissance Hotel from the 25-26th September, again the RLI magazine will be on show at the event. At this event, I am delighted to say I am conducting two panel sessions. On day one, I will be moderating a panel session entitled 'Understanding Retail's Greatest Growth Opportunity at the Top of the Economic Pyramid - For Premium, 'Bridge to Luxury' and Airport Retail'. This will take place from 15:30-16:45. The second panel session will take place on day two from 14:15-15:30 and is entitled 'Retail Impressions: International Brands' Perspective of India'.
During October and November the event train keeps on running for me, RLI and the rest of the retail community. Throughout these months the RLI magazine will be on show at several further events. The beginning of October sees the next issue of RLI on show at Expo Real, which takes place between the 7th and the 9th at New Munich Trade Fair Centre. Next up is the World Retail Congress, also held between the 7th and the 9th October at the CNIT LA Défense Conference Centre in Paris. The next event will be the first ever World Retail Congress Latin America, taking place on the 31st October and the 1st November, which will be held at the WTC Sheraton in Sao Paulo. Following this the magazine will be on show at another world's first, the World Retail Congress Africa event, which takes place at The Maslow in Johannesburg between the 4th and 6th November.
After this comes MAPIC 2013, happening between the 13th and the 15th November at the Palais des Festivals in Cannes, this event promises to be the retail real estate highlight of the year. At this event the huge, 106 page November issue of RLI will be placed in all of the delegate bags. As well as this RLI is once again co-organising a special conference session with Reed Midem. The session is entitled "Middle East Miracle" and it will examine how the Middle East has emerged as a key market for retailers across the globe. The session is scheduled for Wednesday 13th November from 14:30-15:15.
Following MAPIC 2013, I will be heading off to attend RECon Middle East & North Africa 2013 between the 24th and the 26th of November which is to be held at The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi. The magazine will be in the delegate bags at this event, I am also co-organising a panel session for the topic 'The Middle East - A Passion for Brands and a Blaze of Opportunity', (time and date to be confirmed). On top of this, RLI and the MECSC are co-organising a retailer's cocktail party on Sunday 24th November at RECon MENA. If anyone is interested in attending the party and would like an invitation, then please get in touch.
Moving into December, I will be attending the RECon Asia Conference which takes place on 2-3rd December at the China National Convention Center in Beijing. The RLI magazine will also be on show at this event.
If anyone is interested in participating in any of these panel sessions, or would like some more information on any of the panel sessions or events mentioned, please get in touch by ringing me on +44 (0)1706 212200 or by emailing me at jayne.rafter@rli.uk.com, and I look forward to hearing from you.
Looking further ahead and into the New Year, RLI Connect 2014 is gathering pace every day. We already have Sands Retail signed on as Headline Sponsor and Thor Equities as Gold Sponsor. Our Silver Sponsorship is still available, but make sure you enquire quickly to ensure you do not miss out on the fantastic opportunities this sponsorship package can offer you. We have new retailers joining RLI Connect 2014 all the time; the most recent are Causses, a F&B outlet from France, and Dubai Holding Group, a large franchise operator from the UAE. I am also pleased to announce that TriGranit Management Corporation have become the latest developer to book a meeting room package at RLI Connect 2014. On top of this, they have also booked a table of ten for the Global RLI Awards 2014.
After a successful first event, RLI Connect 2014 has been extended to run over two days on the 4-5th June 2014 at Stamford Bridge, the home of Chelsea Football Club. There will be a slightly earlier finish on the 5th; this will allow everyone a chance to get ready before the Global RLI Awards 2014 that will take place on the evening of the 5th June at the Natural History Museum. For booking details or any further information on either of these events please get in touch with me, or email the RLI team at info@rli.uk.com
See you on my travels...
Coming back into the office, there is lots of buzz and excitement as the retail event calendar kicks into overdrive. In the build up to Christmas my schedule will be more packed than my suitcase coming back from holiday.
In the short term, my immediate focus is the upcoming BCSC Showcase event taking place next week at the London Olympia from the 11-12th September, where RLI is a Media Partner for the event and the September issue of RLI will be on show throughout. Once I return from London I will have a few days grace before the travelling schedule begins.
First off I will be in Dubai on the 20th September for a few days of meetings and catch-ups. In Dubai, the RLI magazine will be on show at the Franchise UAE Expo 2013 on the 25-26th September, which is taking place at the Al Bustan Rotana Hotel. The RLI magazine will also be on show at the Retail Matchmaking Event 2013, which is being held at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Zagreb on the 25th September. I will then be heading over to Mumbai for the India Retail Forum, which will be taking place at The Renaissance Hotel from the 25-26th September, again the RLI magazine will be on show at the event. At this event, I am delighted to say I am conducting two panel sessions. On day one, I will be moderating a panel session entitled 'Understanding Retail's Greatest Growth Opportunity at the Top of the Economic Pyramid - For Premium, 'Bridge to Luxury' and Airport Retail'. This will take place from 15:30-16:45. The second panel session will take place on day two from 14:15-15:30 and is entitled 'Retail Impressions: International Brands' Perspective of India'.
During October and November the event train keeps on running for me, RLI and the rest of the retail community. Throughout these months the RLI magazine will be on show at several further events. The beginning of October sees the next issue of RLI on show at Expo Real, which takes place between the 7th and the 9th at New Munich Trade Fair Centre. Next up is the World Retail Congress, also held between the 7th and the 9th October at the CNIT LA Défense Conference Centre in Paris. The next event will be the first ever World Retail Congress Latin America, taking place on the 31st October and the 1st November, which will be held at the WTC Sheraton in Sao Paulo. Following this the magazine will be on show at another world's first, the World Retail Congress Africa event, which takes place at The Maslow in Johannesburg between the 4th and 6th November.
After this comes MAPIC 2013, happening between the 13th and the 15th November at the Palais des Festivals in Cannes, this event promises to be the retail real estate highlight of the year. At this event the huge, 106 page November issue of RLI will be placed in all of the delegate bags. As well as this RLI is once again co-organising a special conference session with Reed Midem. The session is entitled "Middle East Miracle" and it will examine how the Middle East has emerged as a key market for retailers across the globe. The session is scheduled for Wednesday 13th November from 14:30-15:15.
Following MAPIC 2013, I will be heading off to attend RECon Middle East & North Africa 2013 between the 24th and the 26th of November which is to be held at The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi. The magazine will be in the delegate bags at this event, I am also co-organising a panel session for the topic 'The Middle East - A Passion for Brands and a Blaze of Opportunity', (time and date to be confirmed). On top of this, RLI and the MECSC are co-organising a retailer's cocktail party on Sunday 24th November at RECon MENA. If anyone is interested in attending the party and would like an invitation, then please get in touch.
Moving into December, I will be attending the RECon Asia Conference which takes place on 2-3rd December at the China National Convention Center in Beijing. The RLI magazine will also be on show at this event.
If anyone is interested in participating in any of these panel sessions, or would like some more information on any of the panel sessions or events mentioned, please get in touch by ringing me on +44 (0)1706 212200 or by emailing me at jayne.rafter@rli.uk.com, and I look forward to hearing from you.
Looking further ahead and into the New Year, RLI Connect 2014 is gathering pace every day. We already have Sands Retail signed on as Headline Sponsor and Thor Equities as Gold Sponsor. Our Silver Sponsorship is still available, but make sure you enquire quickly to ensure you do not miss out on the fantastic opportunities this sponsorship package can offer you. We have new retailers joining RLI Connect 2014 all the time; the most recent are Causses, a F&B outlet from France, and Dubai Holding Group, a large franchise operator from the UAE. I am also pleased to announce that TriGranit Management Corporation have become the latest developer to book a meeting room package at RLI Connect 2014. On top of this, they have also booked a table of ten for the Global RLI Awards 2014.
After a successful first event, RLI Connect 2014 has been extended to run over two days on the 4-5th June 2014 at Stamford Bridge, the home of Chelsea Football Club. There will be a slightly earlier finish on the 5th; this will allow everyone a chance to get ready before the Global RLI Awards 2014 that will take place on the evening of the 5th June at the Natural History Museum. For booking details or any further information on either of these events please get in touch with me, or email the RLI team at info@rli.uk.com
See you on my travels...
Wednesday, 24 July 2013
2013 Part Two - Dubai and Onwards
After an incredible first half of the year, which culminated with our RLI Connect event and Global RLI Awards in London, you could be forgiven for thinking we would ease up on the accelerator; this is not the case here at the RLI offices. While people are using the summer months to recharge the batteries and take some personal time (myself included), we are working towards a massive September issue and the mammoth edition that will be the November issue of RLI.
Before this however I am heading to Dubai on Wednesday, and am very much looking forward to spending some time with the family and the sunshine, despite the heatwave in the UK I have missed most of it being in the office!!! It is not all play and relaxation on this trip however, as it presents a fantastic opportunity to meet up with friends and associates in the Emirates, and I have some important meetings planned whilst I am out there.
Back here at the office, we are in the process of putting the September issue together, whilst gearing up for the biggest issue of the year in November. which will once again be in all the delegate bags at MAPIC 2013, this huge 106 page issue will be full to the brim with articles, news, a preview of the MAPIC event, and lots of advertising space that is being taken quickly. To include your company in this pivotal issue get in touch at jayne.rafter@rli.uk.com or ring +44 (0)1706 212200
MAPIC, as the world's largest Retail Real Estate event, is a huge occasion for everyone in the industry, and this is no different for myself. As well as utilizing all the possibilities at the event, RLI is once again co-organising a special Conference session with Reed Midem for this year's MAPIC which takes place between the 13-15 November in Cannes. The session is entitled "Middle East Miracle" and it will examine how the Middle East has emerged as a key market for retailers across the world. Retail has become one of the fastest growing industries in the region for the past few years. The shopping centre industry in particular is experiencing unprecedented growth, and the Miracle of Dubai has caught the attention of the world's leading retailers, not forgetting the other Emirates now looking to replicate similar offerings. Not only that, in terms of investments and revenue generation, the Middle East is one of the world's most desirable retail environments made attractive by favourable government policy frameworks and active participation by the private sector.
Within this panel session, we will take a look at Entrepreneurship, challenges and opportunities in the region. This session is scheduled for Wednesday 13 November from 14:30 to 15:15.
MAPIC is not the only time I am holding a panel session in this flurry of events towards the end of the year. I will also be hosting a panel session at the India Retail Forum which takes place on the 25-26 September. This session is entitled "Making India the Next Big Player in Luxury Retail - Charming the Snakes and Scaling the Ladders". The session will allow luxury giants to share their perspectives on what they perceive of the Indian market, how to grow the luxury segment, and understand from the other retailers the peculiarities of the Indian consumer, and what they should do differently from what they have been doing. This session will take place on Wednesday 25 September from 14:15 to 15:30.
After my summer break to Dubai, the pace picks up again and the months leading up to Christmas will be a whirlwind of travel and exciting worldwide retail events. Before they all take place let me take this opportunity to brief you on the most important events on the retail calendar, and how RLI is involved in them.
BCSC Showcase - 11-12 September: -
The showcase is heading in an exciting new direction for 2013, taking place at the London Olympia it will be exactly what the delegates have asked for. This is the UK's largest business-to-business networking event for the retail and retail property industry.
RLI Involvement: Media Partner, magazine on show throughout the event
Retail Matchmaking Event 2013 - 25 September: -
Taking place at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Zagreb, Croatia, Retail Matchmaking is Central Eastern Europe's deal-making event of the year. The event connects the dots between leasing professionals and global retail brands ready to expand throughout the region via pre-arranged meetings in one place on one day.
RLI Involvement: Global Media Partner, magazine on show throughout the event
India Retail Forum - 25-26 September: -
To be held at the Mumbai Renaissance Hotel, the IRF will be built around engaging topics such as retail brand building, retail real estate, reinventing the physical store experience, e-commerce, social media marketing, FDI in retail, the changing decision-making roles of the modern consumer and more...
RLI Involvement: Global Media Partner, magazine on show throughout the event and Panel Session
Expo Real - 7-9 October: -
Expo Real is an unmissable business platform for the international property sector, and for investors. Gathered together here in a single, compact forum are all the links in the value-added chain for the sector: from project development, finance and realization through to marketing, management and final use. The event takes place at the New Munich Trade Fair Centre in Germany.
RLI Involvement: Magazine on show throughout the event
World Retail Congress - 7-9 October: -
The 2013 World Retail Congress is your chance to engage with and learn from those steering the world's leading retail businesses. Recognised as the pre-eminent meeting place in the retail calendar, over the last six years the Congress has brought together over 6,200 of the industry's most influential business leaders and decision makers to challenge current thinking, unveil the latest innovations and shape the direction of retail. To be held at the CNIT La Défence Conference Centre in Paris.
RLI Involvement: Magazine on show throughout the event
World Retail Congress Latin America - 31 October-1 November
World Retail Congress Latin America brings something totally new and unique to the market: a dedicated and premier CEO class strategic retail Congress to the Latin America markets. The exponential growth of the retail sector in Latin America means there is much interest in the dynamics of Latin American retail markets, the examination of the emerging trends, challenges and growth opportunities and best practice within key markets. This year's event will be held at the WTC Sheraton in Sao Paulo, Brazil.
RLI Involvement: Magazine on show throughout the event
World Retail Congress Africa - 4-6 November: -
World Retail Congress Africa 2013 is your chance to engage with and learn from those steering the Pan-African and world's leading retail businesses. It marks a step change for industry in the region - The African Retail Revolution Realised. This event is to be held at The Maslow in Johannesburg.
RLI Involvement: Magazine on show throughout the event
MAPIC - 13-15 November: -
MAPIC is the key meeting point for retailers looking for partners, property developers and owners looking for retailers to enhance their sites. MAPIC delivers three days of tailored meetings, expert-led conferences and a premium exhibition for industry leaders targeting all types of retail property: city and shopping centres, factory outlets, leisure areas and transit zones. As usual, the event takes place at the Palais des Festivals in Cannes, France.
RLI Involvement: The magazine will be in all the delegate bags at the event, in the main hotels along the Croisette and in the Media racks in the Palais des Festivals, there will also be a Panel Session co-organised by RLI.
RECon Middle East & North Africa - 24-26 November: -
The pre-eminent educational and networking conference for the shopping centre industry professionals, retailers and owners in the Middle East & North Africa, RECon MENA will take participants on a deep dive to what they need to know now, and in the future, to operate successful shopping centres, The 2013 event takes place in The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi in Dubai, UAE.
RLI Involvement: The magazine will be in all the delegate bags at the event and will be on show throughout. RLI will also be organising a panel session... details to follow!
RECon Asia Conference - 2-3 December: -
The conference program will feature an outstanding line-up of industry experts who will address a timely array of topics assessing the challenges and opportunities in the Asia-Pacific region. The Exhibition will showcase developers, investors, retailers and product and service providers from Asia and abroad. The event takes place at the China National Convention Centre in Beijing.
RLI Involvement: Magazine on show throughout the event
As you can see from the list above the end of this year is going to be a hectic one, but each event offers different takes on world retail so it makes the travelling more than worthwhile, along with this all the networking opportunities it allows, as well as a chance to catch up with associates makes the trips an excellent investment.
First up though is a mainly relaxing holiday in the Dubai sun. I hope everyone enjoys their summer and any holidays or trips you may have planned.
See you on my travels...
Before this however I am heading to Dubai on Wednesday, and am very much looking forward to spending some time with the family and the sunshine, despite the heatwave in the UK I have missed most of it being in the office!!! It is not all play and relaxation on this trip however, as it presents a fantastic opportunity to meet up with friends and associates in the Emirates, and I have some important meetings planned whilst I am out there.
Back here at the office, we are in the process of putting the September issue together, whilst gearing up for the biggest issue of the year in November. which will once again be in all the delegate bags at MAPIC 2013, this huge 106 page issue will be full to the brim with articles, news, a preview of the MAPIC event, and lots of advertising space that is being taken quickly. To include your company in this pivotal issue get in touch at jayne.rafter@rli.uk.com or ring +44 (0)1706 212200
MAPIC, as the world's largest Retail Real Estate event, is a huge occasion for everyone in the industry, and this is no different for myself. As well as utilizing all the possibilities at the event, RLI is once again co-organising a special Conference session with Reed Midem for this year's MAPIC which takes place between the 13-15 November in Cannes. The session is entitled "Middle East Miracle" and it will examine how the Middle East has emerged as a key market for retailers across the world. Retail has become one of the fastest growing industries in the region for the past few years. The shopping centre industry in particular is experiencing unprecedented growth, and the Miracle of Dubai has caught the attention of the world's leading retailers, not forgetting the other Emirates now looking to replicate similar offerings. Not only that, in terms of investments and revenue generation, the Middle East is one of the world's most desirable retail environments made attractive by favourable government policy frameworks and active participation by the private sector.
Within this panel session, we will take a look at Entrepreneurship, challenges and opportunities in the region. This session is scheduled for Wednesday 13 November from 14:30 to 15:15.
MAPIC is not the only time I am holding a panel session in this flurry of events towards the end of the year. I will also be hosting a panel session at the India Retail Forum which takes place on the 25-26 September. This session is entitled "Making India the Next Big Player in Luxury Retail - Charming the Snakes and Scaling the Ladders". The session will allow luxury giants to share their perspectives on what they perceive of the Indian market, how to grow the luxury segment, and understand from the other retailers the peculiarities of the Indian consumer, and what they should do differently from what they have been doing. This session will take place on Wednesday 25 September from 14:15 to 15:30.
After my summer break to Dubai, the pace picks up again and the months leading up to Christmas will be a whirlwind of travel and exciting worldwide retail events. Before they all take place let me take this opportunity to brief you on the most important events on the retail calendar, and how RLI is involved in them.
BCSC Showcase - 11-12 September: -
The showcase is heading in an exciting new direction for 2013, taking place at the London Olympia it will be exactly what the delegates have asked for. This is the UK's largest business-to-business networking event for the retail and retail property industry.
RLI Involvement: Media Partner, magazine on show throughout the event
Retail Matchmaking Event 2013 - 25 September: -
Taking place at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Zagreb, Croatia, Retail Matchmaking is Central Eastern Europe's deal-making event of the year. The event connects the dots between leasing professionals and global retail brands ready to expand throughout the region via pre-arranged meetings in one place on one day.
RLI Involvement: Global Media Partner, magazine on show throughout the event
India Retail Forum - 25-26 September: -
To be held at the Mumbai Renaissance Hotel, the IRF will be built around engaging topics such as retail brand building, retail real estate, reinventing the physical store experience, e-commerce, social media marketing, FDI in retail, the changing decision-making roles of the modern consumer and more...
RLI Involvement: Global Media Partner, magazine on show throughout the event and Panel Session
Expo Real - 7-9 October: -
Expo Real is an unmissable business platform for the international property sector, and for investors. Gathered together here in a single, compact forum are all the links in the value-added chain for the sector: from project development, finance and realization through to marketing, management and final use. The event takes place at the New Munich Trade Fair Centre in Germany.
RLI Involvement: Magazine on show throughout the event
World Retail Congress - 7-9 October: -
The 2013 World Retail Congress is your chance to engage with and learn from those steering the world's leading retail businesses. Recognised as the pre-eminent meeting place in the retail calendar, over the last six years the Congress has brought together over 6,200 of the industry's most influential business leaders and decision makers to challenge current thinking, unveil the latest innovations and shape the direction of retail. To be held at the CNIT La Défence Conference Centre in Paris.
RLI Involvement: Magazine on show throughout the event
World Retail Congress Latin America - 31 October-1 November
World Retail Congress Latin America brings something totally new and unique to the market: a dedicated and premier CEO class strategic retail Congress to the Latin America markets. The exponential growth of the retail sector in Latin America means there is much interest in the dynamics of Latin American retail markets, the examination of the emerging trends, challenges and growth opportunities and best practice within key markets. This year's event will be held at the WTC Sheraton in Sao Paulo, Brazil.
RLI Involvement: Magazine on show throughout the event
World Retail Congress Africa - 4-6 November: -
World Retail Congress Africa 2013 is your chance to engage with and learn from those steering the Pan-African and world's leading retail businesses. It marks a step change for industry in the region - The African Retail Revolution Realised. This event is to be held at The Maslow in Johannesburg.
RLI Involvement: Magazine on show throughout the event
MAPIC - 13-15 November: -
MAPIC is the key meeting point for retailers looking for partners, property developers and owners looking for retailers to enhance their sites. MAPIC delivers three days of tailored meetings, expert-led conferences and a premium exhibition for industry leaders targeting all types of retail property: city and shopping centres, factory outlets, leisure areas and transit zones. As usual, the event takes place at the Palais des Festivals in Cannes, France.
RLI Involvement: The magazine will be in all the delegate bags at the event, in the main hotels along the Croisette and in the Media racks in the Palais des Festivals, there will also be a Panel Session co-organised by RLI.
RECon Middle East & North Africa - 24-26 November: -
The pre-eminent educational and networking conference for the shopping centre industry professionals, retailers and owners in the Middle East & North Africa, RECon MENA will take participants on a deep dive to what they need to know now, and in the future, to operate successful shopping centres, The 2013 event takes place in The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi in Dubai, UAE.
RLI Involvement: The magazine will be in all the delegate bags at the event and will be on show throughout. RLI will also be organising a panel session... details to follow!
RECon Asia Conference - 2-3 December: -
The conference program will feature an outstanding line-up of industry experts who will address a timely array of topics assessing the challenges and opportunities in the Asia-Pacific region. The Exhibition will showcase developers, investors, retailers and product and service providers from Asia and abroad. The event takes place at the China National Convention Centre in Beijing.
RLI Involvement: Magazine on show throughout the event
As you can see from the list above the end of this year is going to be a hectic one, but each event offers different takes on world retail so it makes the travelling more than worthwhile, along with this all the networking opportunities it allows, as well as a chance to catch up with associates makes the trips an excellent investment.
First up though is a mainly relaxing holiday in the Dubai sun. I hope everyone enjoys their summer and any holidays or trips you may have planned.
See you on my travels...
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