Growth
CROSSROADS
Riyadh, saudi arabia
Where the people, policies and insights of retail come together.
On February 3 & 4, we bring together leaders from every corner of the retail industry to make headlines, deals, new connections and to explore the forces shaping the future.
2026 Annual Meeting
In a fragmented world marked by rising complexity and redrawn lines of growth, progress is no longer guaranteed—it must be co-created.
Building on the 2025 Forum’s call for renewed trust and collaboration, the 2026 RLC Global Forum advances that vision into a more urgent landscape — where global retail and consumer industries recalibrate, supply chains shift, and new growth markets take shape.
Business leaders now stand at a defining inflection point where coordinated, values-driven growth is essential. Growth Crossroads captures this moment of shared responsibility and strategic urgency.
To navigate this divided landscape, the Forum calls on leaders to rethink growth — through alignment, purpose, and cross-sector collaboration that defines the decade ahead.
A Truly Global Platform
U.S. retail sales totaled $7.26 trillion in 2024; projections indicate U.S. sales will surpass $8.29 trillion by 2030.*
134.6 million primary household shoppers patronize 1.08 million physical storefronts in the United States.*
U.S. online retail sales totaled $1.34 trillion in 2024, projecting to reach $2.55 trillion in 2030.*
*Source: CapitalOne Shopping Research (May 2025)
Latin America will become the next major market for 3C brands, exceeding $100 billion by 2028, with opportunities in Mexico, Brazil, and Argentina.*
As of 2025, Latin America’s population has surpassed 660 million, with internet penetration exceeding 75%.*
Latin America's social commerce market is projected to reach $14.6B in 2025 and grow at a 13.8% CAGR through 2030, reaching nearly $28B.**
*Source: EqualOcean (April 2025)
**Source: GlobeNewswire (May 2025)
Physical retail sales in the EU and UK are projected to grow at an annual rate of 3.4% until 2029.*
While forecasts show a boost in retail spending across European countries in 2025 and beyond, Eurozone retail trade growth slowed to +1.5% year-on-year in January 2025.*
0.2% volume growth expected in the European grocery retail market through 2030, with a decline in Central and Eastern Europe and growth in Southern and Northern Europe.**
*Source: PMG (2025)
**Source: McKinsey (2025)
The MENA retail market is valued at $808.5B in 2024, projected to grow from $855.97B in 2025 to $1.4T by 2032 at a 7.3% CAGR.*
Service-oriented shopping drives consumer behavior: 56% of UAE and 33% of Saudi shoppers cite speed and convenience as key grocery purchase drivers, in-store and online.**
Forecasts show the three Gulf countries (Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the UAE) reaching a total of just under $15 billion in retail e-commerce revenues in 2025, followed by a 10% growth.***
South Africa retail trade sales rose 5.7% in the three months ending January 2025 compared to the same period in 2024.*
Africa’s mobile-first approach is expected to drive over 60% of e-commerce transactions in 2025.**
Supermarkets (51%) are the most popular channel for buying beauty products, shops/dukas (12%) and wholesalers (12%) also serve as key distribution points, especially for mid-range products, while Online platforms (10%) are gaining traction.***
*Source: Department Statistics South Africa (Jan. 2025)
**Source: Techcabal Insights
***Source: GeoPoll (2025)
B2B e-commerce in Asia Pacific is growing at 15% annually, outpacing the 14.5% global average in GMV growth.*
Cross-border e-commerce in Asia Pacific varies by market, led by China (71.4), South Korea (66.7), and Singapore (65.5), followed by Japan (61.1), Thailand (58.8), Malaysia (57.7), and Indonesia (54.3).*
China retail sales grew 6.4% in May 2025, the fastest pace since December 2023 and exceeding all estimates, according to official government data.
*Source: International Trade Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce
Australian retail turnover rose 0.2% in February 2025, following a 0.3% increase in January and a 0.2% decline in December 2024.*
In 2024, 17.08 million Australian shoppers used online shopping websites monthly, a 45% increase from 2020 (11.78%). Australian e-commerce shoppers account for roughly 63.94% of the country’s population.**
85% of Australian consumers are regularly switching between shopping online and in-store, compared to 12% that shop only in store.***
*Source: Australia Bureau of Statistics (April 2025)
**Source: Red Search (Jan. 2025)
***Source: KPMG (2025)
India’s retail market reached $952B in 2024 and is projected to grow at 11.4% CAGR, nearing $2.8T by 2034.
India’s eCommerce revenue is forecast to reach $111 billion by 2024 and expand to over $200 billion by 2026.**
Organized retail in India is expected to grow from its current share of 18–20% to about 25–30% by 2025, as modern trade and e-commerce continue to expand.***
*Source: Expert Market Research (Dec. 2024)
**Source: Speed Commerce (2025)
***Source: Deloitte


An Inclusive Multi-Stakeholder Global Conversation
An Inclusive
Multi-stakeholder
Global Conversation
- Shopping Centers & Urban Developers
- Government & Public Agencies
- Giga Projects & Lifestyle Destinations
- Big Tech & Infrastructure
- Shopping Centers & Urban Developers
- Government & Public Agencies
- Giga Projects & Lifestyle Destinations
- Big Tech & Infrastructure
- Shopping Centers & Urban Developers
- Government & Public Agencies
- Giga Projects & Lifestyle Destinations
- Big Tech & Infrastructure
- Shopping Centers & Urban Developers
- Government & Public Agencies
- Giga Projects & Lifestyle Destinations
- Big Tech & Infrastructure
- Shopping Centers & Urban Developers
- Government & Public Agencies
- Giga Projects & Lifestyle Destinations
- Big Tech & Infrastructure
- Shopping Centers & Urban Developers
- Government & Public Agencies
- Giga Projects & Lifestyle Destinations
- Big Tech & Infrastructure
- Shopping Centers & Urban Developers
- Government & Public Agencies
- Giga Projects & Lifestyle Destinations
- Big Tech & Infrastructure
- Shopping Centers & Urban Developers
- Government & Public Agencies
- Giga Projects & Lifestyle Destinations
- Big Tech & Infrastructure
- Shopping Centers & Urban Developers
- Government & Public Agencies
- Giga Projects & Lifestyle Destinations
- Big Tech & Infrastructure
- Shopping Centers & Urban Developers
- Government & Public Agencies
- Giga Projects & Lifestyle Destinations
- Big Tech & Infrastructure
- Investors, VCs & Industry Analysts
- F&B
- Tourism, & Hospitality Leaders
- City planners Architects & Experts
- Retail
- Luxury Brands
- Grocery & Electronics
- THE CONSUMER ECONOMY
- ESCALATING GLOBAL POLARIZATION
- WOMEN LEADERSHIP
- THE FUTURE OF SHOPPING MALLS
- Investors, VCs & Industry Analysts
- F&B
- Tourism, & Hospitality Leaders
- City planners Architects & Experts
- Retail
- Luxury Brands
- Grocery & Electronics
- THE CONSUMER ECONOMY
- ESCALATING GLOBAL POLARIZATION
- WOMEN LEADERSHIP
- THE FUTURE OF SHOPPING MALLS
- Investors, VCs & Industry Analysts
- F&B
- Tourism, & Hospitality Leaders
- City planners Architects & Experts
- Retail
- Luxury Brands
- Grocery & Electronics
- THE CONSUMER ECONOMY
- ESCALATING GLOBAL POLARIZATION
- WOMEN LEADERSHIP
- THE FUTURE OF SHOPPING MALLS
- Investors, VCs & Industry Analysts
- F&B
- Tourism, & Hospitality Leaders
- City planners Architects & Experts
- Retail
- Luxury Brands
- Grocery & Electronics
- THE CONSUMER ECONOMY
- ESCALATING GLOBAL POLARIZATION
- WOMEN LEADERSHIP
- THE FUTURE OF SHOPPING MALLS
- Investors, VCs & Industry Analysts
- F&B
- Tourism, & Hospitality Leaders
- City planners Architects & Experts
- Retail
- Luxury Brands
- Grocery & Electronics
- THE CONSUMER ECONOMY
- ESCALATING GLOBAL POLARIZATION
- WOMEN LEADERSHIP
- THE FUTURE OF SHOPPING MALLS
- Investors, VCs & Industry Analysts
- F&B
- Tourism, & Hospitality Leaders
- City planners Architects & Experts
- Retail
- Luxury Brands
- Grocery & Electronics
- THE CONSUMER ECONOMY
- ESCALATING GLOBAL POLARIZATION
- WOMEN LEADERSHIP
- THE FUTURE OF SHOPPING MALLS
- Investors, VCs & Industry Analysts
- F&B
- Tourism, & Hospitality Leaders
- City planners Architects & Experts
- Retail
- Luxury Brands
- Grocery & Electronics
- THE CONSUMER ECONOMY
- ESCALATING GLOBAL POLARIZATION
- WOMEN LEADERSHIP
- THE FUTURE OF SHOPPING MALLS
- Investors, VCs & Industry Analysts
- F&B
- Tourism, & Hospitality Leaders
- City planners Architects & Experts
- Retail
- Luxury Brands
- Grocery & Electronics
- THE CONSUMER ECONOMY
- ESCALATING GLOBAL POLARIZATION
- WOMEN LEADERSHIP
- THE FUTURE OF SHOPPING MALLS
- Investors, VCs & Industry Analysts
- F&B
- Tourism, & Hospitality Leaders
- City planners Architects & Experts
- Retail
- Luxury Brands
- Grocery & Electronics
- THE CONSUMER ECONOMY
- ESCALATING GLOBAL POLARIZATION
- WOMEN LEADERSHIP
- THE FUTURE OF SHOPPING MALLS
- Investors, VCs & Industry Analysts
- F&B
- Tourism, & Hospitality Leaders
- City planners Architects & Experts
- Retail
- Luxury Brands
- Grocery & Electronics
- THE CONSUMER ECONOMY
- ESCALATING GLOBAL POLARIZATION
- WOMEN LEADERSHIP
- THE FUTURE OF SHOPPING MALLS
2026 strategic partners
2026
strategic
partners


A Global Strategic
Partnership
A Global Strategic
Partnership


Since 2019, the RLC Global Forum has partnered with Wharton’s Jay H. Baker Retailing Center to ignite meaningful dialogue and drive forward innovation within the retail sector. Guided by a shared vision, this collaboration focuses on advancing the industry through curated C-suite engagements and impactful thought-leadership.
Together, we have built a vibrant community of retail leaders and influential stakeholders who are dedicated to addressing the sector’s complexities and embracing emerging possibilities. By fostering the exchange of ideas and expertise, this strategic alliance delivers actionable insights and forward-thinking solutions, empowering C-level executives to confidently navigate an ever-evolving retail landscape.
10+ years RLC
Since 2014, RLC has hosted over 15+ flagship events on 3 continents with 1250+ of the world’s most influential CEOs, leaders, tech pioneers, entrepreneurs and policymakers as speakers.
2025 Annual Forum Key Stats
2025 Annual Forum
Key Stats
1
4
5
+
Speakers
5
2
%
C level leaders
7
5
0
+
Companies
1,
8
0
0
Participants
What to expect
Rooted in world-leading global insights and best-practices, the 2026 RLC Global Forum will decipher the state of retail around the world.
“Crossroads of Collective Progress” defines a new mandate for leadership in an era of uncertainty. Built on renewed trust and collaboration, it calls on global retail and consumer industries to recalibrate, shift supply chains, and unlock new growth—capturing a moment of shared responsibility and strategic urgency.
Hear from some of the world’s most powerful and influential voices critical insights and learn from news-making discussions.
Explore cutting-edge projects and solutions from leading companies showcasing their latest products in our hybrid exhibition space.
Attend strategic sessions focused on critical topics, providing deep dives into specific categories and industry trends.
Celebrate excellence at our Award Dinner, where key industry leaders are honored for their significant contributions to the retail sector.
Enhance your skills and knowledge through hands-on workshops designed to provide critical learning and practical insights.
Witness significant partnerships and agreements being sealed, showcasing collaboration and strategic growth within the industry
Participate in closed-doors, focused taskforce discussions with experts and peers, fostering in-depth dialogue and networking on critical issues.
Stay informed with the exclusive announcements and updates from industry leaders during our dedicated media briefings.
Partner with RLC
Level up your growth, reach your target audience, and strengthen your brand among a dedicated audience of industry leaders and key decision makers.
What’s On
Why was the theme “Crossroads of Collective Progress” chosen for the 2026 Annual meeting?
Insights
Stay updated on retail’s latest news, insights & trends with a focus on disruptive innovation. Powered by RLC Global Forum’s powerful, global community.
why riyadh?
As the largest economy in the GCC,
Saudi Arabia’s GDP was approx.
E-commerce in Saudi Arabia
accounted for
29%
7.1% CAGR
growth forecast for Saudi retail market by 2030
As the largest economy in the GCC,
Saudi Arabia’s GDP was approx.
in 2024
E-commerce in Saudi Arabia
accounted for
29%
annual rate.
7.1% CAGR
growth forecast for Saudi retail market by 2030
As a burgeoning commercial global powerhouse, Riyadh’s commitment to Vision 2030 aims at diversifying the economy and enhancing cultural and entertainment offerings, demonstrating its readiness to host the flagship 2026 RLC Global Forum Annual Meeting.
The city’s rich cultural heritage, coupled with its rapid modernization, offers a unique and enriching experience, making Riyadh a vibrant and attractive destination for a global audience.
The city’s strategic location at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa enhances its accessibility for international attendees, fostering global connectivity.
Hosting the 2026 RLC Global Forum in Riyadh allows attendees to tap into a fast-changing growth market, providing opportunities to further explore one of the most economically influential cities in the world and build powerful connections within a city that connects East with the West.

What

thinks about RLC Global Forum
RLC stands as the foremost gathering
in this region, thoughtfully curated for
enterprises and visionary trailblazers.

What

thinks about RLC Global Forum
A meeting of visionaries and game-changers.
It’s truly remarkable how RLC combines rich thought
leadership with an unparalleled showcase of innovation.

What

thinks about RLC Global Forum
…… the best industry event to absorb
wisdom and insights from a diverse array
of leading CEOs and policymakers.


Ready to
Unlock Retail?
Invitation Only
Influence meets innovation. Experience the 2026 RLC Global Forum, where the region’s industry leadership comes together for unrivaled networking, strategic insights, and game-changing content. Shape the future of retail and commerce. Save the date!