2025/RiYadh
Rebuilding a Shared Future
Rebuilding
a Shared Future
On February 4-5, 2025, the RLC Global Forum (formerly Retail Leaders Circle) convened leaders from across the global retail industry in Riyadh under the theme “Rebuilding a Shared Future.”
Amid a polarized and rapidly evolving landscape, the 2025 RLC Global Annual Forum explored ways to rebuild collaboration and cooperation among global retailers, policymakers and innovators, aiming to re-establish the foundational principles of trust and shared objectives. Discussions addressed the impacts of geopolitical shifts, economic volatility, technological disruption, as well as emerging market opportunities.
Overall, the event emphasized a core belief: retail should not operate in isolation.
With high-level participation, dynamic dialogue, and actionable insights, the 2025 Annual Forum reaffirmed its role as a catalyst for global industry cooperation and forward-looking innovation.
Our distinguished speakers

Yasser Joharji
CEO, Nahdi Medical Company

Alison Rehill-Erguven
CEO, Cenomi Centers

Renuka Jagtiani
Chairwoman, Landmark Group

Dr. Bander Hamooh
CEO, Panda

Michael Chalhoub
CEO, Chalhoub Group

John Hadden
CEO, Alshaya Group

Stefania Lazzaroni
CEO, Altagamma

Sima Ganwani Ved
Founder & Chairwoman, Apparel Group

Mindy Grossman
Vice-Chair & Partner, Consello Group

Rahul Jagtiani
Group Director – Digital, Landmark Group

Ali Bailoun
Regional General Manager for Saudi Arabia, Bahrain & Oman, Visa

Geoffroy van Raemdonck
Former CEO, Neiman Marcus Group and Luxury Retail Expert
- Kiran Haslam
- Shant Oknayan
- Federica Marchionni
- Supaluck Umpujh
- Jaume Miquel Naudi
- Andrea Drasites
- Faraz Khalid
- Michael Ward
- Cristiana Falcone
- Simon Evenett
- Tom Cartledge
- Georges Barakat
- Prince Waleed N. F. Al Saud
- Christian Schwaerzler
- Fares Akkad
- Amin Magrabi
- Abdullah Al Tamimi
- Abir A. Kaki
- Mohamad ElAnsari
- Dr. Günther Helm
- Dr. Ayth I. Almubarak
- Hosam Arab
- Karl Schwitzke
- Bruno Wehbe
- Nilesh Ved
- Zia Daniell Wigder
- Joe Abi Akl
- Graziano de Boni
- Catherine Brien
- Ayman Mohammed Al Burti
- Mina Fader
- Matthew David Clark
- Amarpal Sandhu
- Charbel Sarkis
- Norma Taki
- Dr. JJ Van Oosten
- Ayman Beydoun
- Khalid AlJanahi
- Abdellah Iftahy
- Paul Carey
- Fahed Ghanim
- Remo Giovanni Abbondandolo
- Abdel-Salam Bdeir
- Saud Alsulaimani
- Barbara Kahn
- Nisreen Shocair
- Neil Blumenthal
- Saud Alsulaiman
- Selvane Mohandas du Ménil
- Lee Talbott
- Ahmad AR BinDawood
- Abdulla Alhammadi
- Majed M. AlTahan
- Lynn Al Khatib
- Hala Zgeib
- Ali Mansour
- Devendar Agarwal
- Patrick Kaudewitz
- Dennis Michael
- Neeraj Teckchandani
- David Wilkinson
- Cyrille Fabre
- Debashish Mukherjee
- Ali Shareif
- Adriano Araujo
- Eng. Faisal Abdulrahman Alnasser
- Dr. Solaiman bin Abdulaziz Al-Twaijri
- Muwaffaq M. Jamal
- Eithne Treanor
- Eng. Ali Aldamanhori
- Karl Nader
- Philippe Pedone
- Erika Andreetta
- Anna Germanos
- Abdullah Al Sabban
- Shehim Mohammed
- Adnan AlKhalaf
- Khaled Abuhamdeh
- Filippo Bianchi
- Hamza Jeddawi
- Ben Chesser
- Muzzammil Ahussain
- Shane Eldstrom
- Amir Awan
- Vikram Natarajan
- Alexander Pöhl
- Abdulmajeed Alsukhan
- Tanmay Jain
- Bandar Saeedi
- Isabelle Vantard
- Simon Mitchel
- Philippe Najjar
- Deborah Weinswigh
- Pauline Coquet
- Rajesh Garg
- Mansour AlShamrani
- Yousef Gamal El-Din
- Bobby Rajendran
- Mohammed Dhedhi
- John Munro
- Peter Filcek
- Jacqueline Elboghdadi
- Mohammed S. Alfahad
- Dr. Daria Ciriaci
- Carl Schibrowski
- Pamela Merlino
- Josef Seidler
- Guido Lubbers
- Ahmed Helaly
- Carlos Garcia Pinilla
- Hisham Abdul Khalek
- Andrew Joshi
- Reina Takla
- Alistair Burton
- Sujata Assomull
- Anne-Laure Malauzat
- Dalia Saliba
- Babur Naveed
- Federico Piro
- Umair Ansari
- Artin Malatjalian
- Ibrahim Al Qasmi
- Mohammed Aldabbagh
- Anas Al-Qadi
- Mohammed Sleeq
- Riaz Bashir
- Deem AlBassam
- V. Nandakumar
- Nitasha Walia
- Samer Sabra
- Andrew Cubitt
Highlights
A look back at the moments that mattered, the voices that inspired, and the ideas that moved us forward. At the energy, insights, and connections that defined the 2025 Annual Forum.
Highlights
A look back at the moments that mattered, the voices that inspired, and the ideas that moved us forward. At the energy, insights, and connections that defined the 2025 Annual Forum.
Agenda
Day 1
As businesses grapple with rising geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainty, and the rapid pace of technological transformation, what lies ahead for the global economy? Key business leaders share their perspectives on navigating the complexities of 2025 and beyond. What are the major macroeconomic trends shaping the future of global commerce? How can leaders turn uncertainty into opportunity while driving resilience and innovation? Drawing on their diverse expertise across industries, the speakers will explore actionable strategies to adapt, grow, and thrive in a world of shifting paradigms.
Simon Evenett, Professor of Geopolitics & Strategy, IMD Business School
Mindy Grossman, Partner & Vice Chair, Consello
Fares Akkad, Regional Director for MENA, Meta
Eithne Treanor, Founder & CEO, E. Treanor Media
This session will delve into the latest shifts in consumer behavior and the role of digital transformation in reshap-ing the travel retail landscape in Saudi Arabia. It will explore how advanced technologies and omni-channel strategies are providing seamless and personalized customer experiences. The session will also discuss the future outlook for travel retail in Saudi Arabia and wider region, including emerging trends and recommendations for staying competitive in a rapidly evolving market.
Muzzammil Ahussain, CEO, Almosafer
Ali Bailoun, Regional General Manager for KSA, Oman and Bahrain, Visa
As organizations face economic headwinds and unpredictable markets, leadership at the highest level has never been more critical. This session explores how visionary leaders are guiding innovative portfolio strategies, driving smart productivity, and championing resource optimization to unlock untapped value and ensure sustainable growth. What does it take to redefine leadership, turn volatility into strategic advantage, and forge resilient paths in a world where change is the only constant?
Renuka Jagtiani, Chairwoman & CEO, Landmark Group
Abdellah Iftahy, Senior Partner, McKinsey & Company
Nitasha Walia, Partner, McKinsey & Company
Amid transformative shifts in the retail sector, leaders face the challenge of aligning with evolving consumer behaviors, addressing Competitive pressures, and overcoming market disruptions. With growth trends, the evolution of channels, and strategies for optimizing Category profits at the forefront, the focus is on building resilience while perfecting operational basics. What strategic approaches will Top retailers adopt to drive resilience and innovation? How can businesses align with changing market dynamics to ensure sustained Growth?
Dr. Bander Hamooh, CEO, Panda Retail Corp.
Neeraj Teckchandani, CEO, Apparel Group
Karl Nader, Partner & Managing Director, AlixPartners
Ayman Beydoun, CEO, BFL Group
Norma Taki, Retail and Consumer Market Leader, Transaction Services Partner and Inclusion and Diversity Leader, PwC Middle East
As e-commerce continues to grow in the GCC, understanding the region’s unique market dynamics is crucial for success. This session will explore how retail leaders can leverage data-driven insights to navigate the evolving digital landscape, identify growth opportuni-ties, and create a roadmap for sustainable e-commerce development.
Zia Daniell Wigder, Chief Content Officer, EMARKETER
In a world where digital and physical boundaries increasingly blur, social commerce is revolutionizing how consumers shop, connect, and build relationships with brands. This transformative force is reshaping the retail ecosystem by driving cultural relevance, creating immersive experiences, and redefining consumer relationships. How can brands move beyond transactions to build communities, spark meaningful conversations, and foster loyalty? What strategies are needed to navigate this paradigm shift, challenge established norms, and unlock new opportunities for sustainable growth and innovation?
Shant Oknayan, VP of Global Business Solutions, Bytedance
Joe Abi Akl, Partner and Head of Retail & Consumer, Oliver Wyman
Rahul Jagtiani, Group Director - Digital, Landmark Group
Charbel Sarkis, Country Director, Saudi Arabia, Google
Artificial intelligence is not just reshaping retail; it’s redefining the rules of engagement across customer experiences and back-end op- Erations. Through actual use cases, explore how ai powers personalized shopping, inventory optimization, and supply chain efficiency At scale. Will these innovations unlock growth, enhance performance, and create a lasting competitive advantage? And where should Ceos focus their attention to fully leverage ai’s transformative potential across the retail ecosystem?
Susheel Sethumadhavan, Partner, Kearney
The role of leadership in embedding purpose, culture, and values to create an organization that positively impacts both employees and communities goes beyond business success—it fosters long-term resilience, innovation, and trust. This session will explore how leaders can authentically integrate purpose into their strategic vision, cultivate a values-driven workplace, and drive meaningful social and economic impact.
Yasser Joharji, CEO, Nahdi Medical Company
Mohammed Dhedhi, Partner, Kearney
Marketplaces are reshaping the retail landscape, bridging B2B and B2C markets through scalable ecosystems that foster growth and innovation. In the Middle East, where e-commerce is projected to reach $57 billion by 2026, marketplaces are critical in addressing evolving consumer preferences—80% of shoppers favor online platforms for convenience and variety. What strategies are es- sential for designing consumer-centric marketplaces that cater to regional dynamics while fostering global competitiveness? How can businesses integrate personalized experiences with seamless digital solutions to unlock marketplace-driven growth?
Mohammad ElAnsari, CEO, Trendyol Gulf
Dr. JJ Van Oosten, President, Digital TransformationX
Peter Filcek, Marketplace Director, Tesco
Tanmay Jain, Partner, BCG
As cities transform, retail is emerging as a cornerstone of urban evolution, turning mixed-use developments into vibrant lifestyle hubs.
These spaces seamlessly integrate living, working, entertainment, and culture, reshaping how communities thrive. With a focus on best practices and real-world use cases, this session delves into how sustainable design and innovative technologies are driving measurable outcomes in urban retail. But as retail takes center stage, does its greatest potential lie in fostering cultural transformation, or in unlock- ing new economic and strategic advantages for the future of urban living?
Craig Watson, Head of Retail, JLL
Julie Alexander, Senior Director of Smart Cities, Diriyah Company
David Wilkinson, Executive Director, Streem & Strom
Karl Schwitzke, Founder & Managing Partner, Schwitzke Group
Lee Talbott, Senior Director, Retail Portfolio, ROSHN Group
Simon Mitchell, CEO, Sybarite
In today’s travel and retail landscape, visitors demand seamless convenience, connectivity, and immersive experiences. The “Stay,
Play, Shop” model is emerging as a cornerstone for creating integrated destinations that combine hospitality, retail, and recreation with unparalleled experiential value. How can destinations effectively harness this model to enhance visitor retention, maximize economic impact, and build community-driven value? What strategies can align retail, dining, entertainment, and experiential elements within mixed-use developments to craft vibrant, economically resilient ecosystems that captivate modern travelers?
Kiran Haslam, Chief Marketing Officer, Diriyah Company
Carl Schibrowski, Chief Development Officer, New Murabba Development Company
Bruno Wehbe, Chief Operating Officer, Cenomi Centers
Khaled Abuhamdeh, CEO, Red Malls
Philippe Najjar, Partner, PwC
Discover how Makkah and Madina are at the forefront of Vision 2030, with ambitious plans to enhance the pilgrim experience and contribute SAR 15 billion annually to the Saudi economy. This session will examine opportunities for real estate, tourism, and retail sectors to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of these globally significant cities.
Anas Saleh Al Qadi, Chief Commercial officer Leasing & Mall Centers, Hamat Holding
Artin Malatjalian, CEO, RASM
Samer Sabra, Chief Assets Management Officer, Jabal Omar Development Co.
Muwaffaq Mansour Jamal, Managing Director, Sudasia
In a region where culinary traditions meet rapid technological advancements, AI is revolutionizing the F&B sector. From optimizing supply chains to personalizing customer experiences, GCC companies are adopting AI to stay competitive in a global market. How are these innovations addressing the unique challenges of the region, from sustainability to consumer expectations? This session explores transformative case studies and the untapped potential for AI to redefine how food and beverage businesses operate in the GCC and beyond.
Eng. Ali Aldamanhori, CEO, Hungerstation
Amarpal Sandhu, CEO, Americana Restaurants International
Deem AlBassam, CEO, Independent Hospitality Group
Federico Piro, Partner, Bain & Company
In an era where consumer expectations are evolving at lightning speed, SHEIN and Temu have emerged as global disruptors, rewriting the rules of retail. These fast-fashion and e-commerce giants have not only captured the attention of millions of shoppers but have also redefined how brands can leverage technology, data, and agile supply chains to stay ahead. This session will explore the strategies behind SHEIN and Temu’s meteoric rise and what they reveal about the future of retail. From hyper-personalization and AI-driven trend forecasting to ultra-efficient supply chains and direct-to-consumer models, we’ll uncover actionable insights that senior leaders can apply to their own organizations.
Deborah Weinswing, CEO & Founder, Coresight Research
In this dynamic session, Jacqueline Elboghdadi, Chief Marketing Officer of ADNOC Distribution, will explore how AI-driven innovation is revolutionizing the fuel and convenience retail experience in the UAE. From optimizing the fueling experience and EV charging to hyper-personalization and enhancing the in-store customer journey. Discover how cutting-edge technology is reshaping customer interactions, driving efficiency, and setting new standards for the industry. Don’t miss this discussion on the future, through the lens of tangible and live real-world AI-powered convenience.
Jacqueline Elboghdadi, Chief Marketing Officer, ADNOC Distribution
In a world where consumers demand accountability and regulators tighten their focus, sustainability is no longer just a goal—it’s a busi- ness imperative. With retail and fashion responsible for nearly 10% of global carbon emissions and over 20% of global wastewater, and with growing consumer demand for sustainable products, the urgency for action has never been greater. How can companies innovate supply chains, reduce environmental impact, and foster resilience while aligning profitability with purpose? Explore actionable strate- gies for sustainable ecosystems and draw inspiration from real-world business successes delivering measurable impact.
Federica Marchionni, CEO, Global Fashion Agenda
Rajesh Garg, Group Chief Financial Officer, Landmark Group
Vikram Natarajan, CEO, Kayanee
Lynn Al Khatib, Executive Coach and Vice President of Communications, Chalhoub Group
Today’s consumers expect more than just great products—they seek brands that offer seamless, meaningful, and frictionless experiences. In this fireside chat, Warby Parker co-founder Neil Blumenthal shares insights on how customer-centric innovation, digital engagement, and purpose-driven strategies can foster deep brand loyalty. From redefining omnichannel retail to pioneering the direct-to-consumer movement, discover how experience is the new currency of long-term growth.
Neil Blumenthal, Co-founder & Co-CEO, Warby Parker
Mina Fader, Managing Director, Baker Retailing Center, The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania
As economic uncertainty and shifting consumer behaviors reshape the market, how can retail leaders craft growth models that en- dure? This session examines how resilient strategies can navigate challenges, strengthen customer loyalty, and future-proof businesses against disruption. Is resilience the ultimate edge in today’s retail landscape?
Jaume Miquel Naudi, CEO, Tendam
Mina Fader, Managing Director, Baker Retailing Center, The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania
In a region where retail is both a tradition and a transformation, leading MENA brands are rewriting the rules of shopper engagement. This session examines the art and science behind building brand identities that resonate deeply with consumers while unlocking un- tapped profitability. From omnichannel innovations that seamlessly blend the digital and physical to data-driven strategies that elevate customer loyalty, this discussion will reveal the bold moves and fresh ideas shaping the future of retail. Is satisfaction the ultimate goal, or just the starting point for a new era of consumer connection?
Alison Rehill-Erguven, Chief Executive Officer, Cenomi
Mohammed S. Alfahad, Loyalty Management GM, STC
Paul Carey, Executive Vice President, Chief Product & Payments Officer, Blue Rewards, Al-Futtaim
Majed M. AlTahan, Co-founder and CEO, Danube Online, Founder & CEO, IACO
Devendar Agarwal, Vice President and GCC Head of Merchant Sales and Acceptance, Visa
Day 2
As industries converge and consumer expectations soar, the need for innovative public-private partnerships (PPPs) has never been more pressing. These partnerships are becoming essential for driving smart growth and fostering innovation across sectors like F&B, entertainment, and mixed-use developments. What strategies can effectively integrate diverse districts, real estate assets, and consumer-focused initiatives to unlock sustainable growth? This session will deep dive into best practices and highlight emerging opportunities for leveraging PPPs to create value, transform communities, and build resilient, future-ready ecosystems.
Andrew Cubitt, Chief Commercial Officer, New Murabba Development Company
Tom Cartledge, CEO, Benoy + Pragma
Pamela Merlino, Partner, McKinsey & Company
Retail’s rulebook is being rewritten in real time. Omni-channel experiences are blurring the lines between online and offline, personalized approaches across various verticals risk crossing the fine line between helpful and intrusive, and payment innovations promise a frictionless future. Yet, as technology accelerates the pace of change, one question looms large: is the industry truly addressing what consumers want—or are brands simply chasing trends to stay relevant? What does it mean to build lasting loyalty in a landscape of fleeting preferences?
Fahed Ghanim, CEO, Majid Al Futtaim –Lifestyle
Amir Awan, Founder & CEO, Dupeshop Beauty
Remo Giovanni Abbondandolo, General Manager, MENA, Checkout.com
Nisreen Shocair, CEO and Founder, The Shocase Network
As technological advancements redefine the boundaries of retail, they challenge traditional models, from customer-centric strategies to operational excellence. How can leaders navigate this transformative era, harnessing innovation to drive growth and adapt to emerging opportunities? Does the future of AI in retail call for rapid adoption or a bold reimagining of the entire business model?
Adriano Araujo, President, APAC & MEA, Ocado Group
Bobby Rajendran, CEO, Tamimi Markets
Abdel-Salam Bdeir, CEO, SACO
Catherine Brien, Partner & Managing Director, AlixPartners, United Kingdom
The future of shopping malls, and particularly in the KSA, lies at the intersection of ambition and pragmatism. As macro-economic forces drive shifts in the KSA landscape, with a supply growth planned at ~10% per year until 2026 in Riyadh, for example, evolving consumer needs and the emergence of new formats are changing the face of retail real estate in the Kingdom and the region. In this ever-changing environment, how can retail real estate operators across the GCC navigate economic fluctuations and strike a delicate balance between supply and demand to ensure resilience and drive sustainable growth?
Alison Rehill-Erguven, CEO, Cenomi Centers
Shane Eldstrom, CEO, United Developers, Qatar
Abdullah Al Tamimi, CEO, Hamat Holding
Georges Barakat, Director - Local Real Estate Investments Division - Retail, Public Investment Fund (PIF)
Anne-Laure Malauzat, Partner, Bain & Company
As the future of commerce rapidly evolves, conversational commerce is emerging as a game-changer for businesses aiming to stay ahead. By 2030, 85% of customer interactions are expected to be automated, reshaping how companies engage with their customers. This session examines how conversational commerce can become a strategic growth driver, blending AI-powered chat tools with human-centric insights to deliver seamless, personalized experiences at scale. But how far can businesses push the boundaries of automation before losing the essence of personalized customer engagement?
James Dickson, Chief Product Officer, Landmark Digital, Landmark Group
Mohammed Sleeq, Chief Operating Officer, Unifonic
V. Nandakumar, Director - Marketing & Communications, LuLu Group International
Anna Germanos, Group Director for Consumer Packaged Goods, Retail, E-commerce & Luxury, Meta
As the world confronts disruption at every turn, leadership itself is being redefined. What does it take to lead with impact while navigating the pressures of transformation and rising expectations? This session delves into the stories and strategies of trailblazing women who are reshaping the retail and lifestyle industries, exploring how resilience and innovation are not just responses to change but tools to rewrite the future of leadership.
Sima Ganwani Ved, Founder and Chairwoman, Apparel Group
Supaluck Umpujh, Chairwoman, The Mall Group
Hala Zgeib, Head of Luxury, Snap Inc.
Luxury is at a crossroads, driven by the need for bold innovation to meet evolving consumer expectations, AI-powered disruption, and shifting global market dynamics. How are leaders navigating this period of transformation? This session provides a high-level perspec- tive on the current state of luxury, unveiling how organizations are adapting to rapid change, redefining customer-centric experiences, and positioning themselves to capitalize on the opportunities of tomorrow.
Michael Chalhoub, CEO, Chalhoub Group
Michael Ward, Managing Director, Harrods
Geoffroy van Raemdonck, Former CEO, Neiman Marcus Group and Luxury Retail Expert
Panos Linardos, Chairman, RLC Global Forum
Global cross-border e-commerce is projected to exceed $2 trillion by 2026, with platforms like Shein and Temu disrupting traditional trade and capturing over 30% market share in key categories across the Middle East market. However, regulatory loopholes and tariff discrepancies pose significant challenges for local players, risking market imbalances. This session delves into strategies for leveling the playing field, optimizing logistics, and fostering sustainable growth. How can businesses and regulators collaborate to ensure fair competition while seizing the opportunities of a globalized economy?
Dr. Ayth Al Mubarak, CEO, The National Center for Family Business
John Hadden, CEO, Alshaya Group
Faraz Khalid, CEO, noon
Rahul Jagtiani, Group Director - Digital, Landmark Group
Cyrille Fabre, Sr Partner, Bain & Company
Discount grocery retail has redefined Western grocery markets, with value-led players capturing over 20% of market share and reshap- ing the entire value chain. While such models have yet to gain significant traction in the GCC, nearly 70% of customers express a strong interest in shopping at discount-focused concepts. As the GCC grocery retail market matures and customer preferences diversify, how can the region capitalize on the value-led opportunity? What broader lessons from the rise of discount models can inspire innovative strategies and drive resilience in competitive markets? This session will explore successful discount retail formulas from the West, their adaptability to markets like Saudi Arabia and the UAE, and the strategic adjustments required for local success.
Patrick Kaudewitz, CEO & Founder, Kaudewitz Consulting GmbH
Abdullah Al Sabban, Chief Operating Officer, Panda Retail Corp.
Shehim Mohammed, Director KSA, Lulu Saudi Hypermarkets LLC
Alexander Pöhl, Partner Retail & Consumer, Oliver Wyman
Luxury is evolving rapidly in the Middle East, fueled by one of the world’s highest mobile penetrations and booming e-commerce, projected to reach $49 billion by 2025. How are luxury brands leveraging Clienteling 3.0, data-driven marketing, and social selling to deliver hyper-personalized customer experiences? This session uncovers actionable strategies for integrating technology with human touchpoints to drive growth, enhance competitiveness, and meet rising consumer expectations in a region reshaping the global luxury landscape.
Stefania Lazzaroni, CEO, Altagamma
Hala Zgeib, Head of Luxury, Snap Inc.
Geoffroy van Raemdonck, Former CEO, Neiman Marcus Group and Luxury Retail Expert
Filippo Bianchi, Managing Director & Sr Partner, BCG
In an era where innovation accelerates at breakneck speed and consumer expectations shift with every technological leap, the luxury industry stands at a defining crossroads: how to honor storied legacies while embracing the demands of a new generation. Balancing heritage with progress is no longer optional—it is the ultimate test of relevance. Can luxury brands reimagine exclusivity, authenticity, and craftsmanship in ways that resonate globally while preserving the timeless allure that defines them? At this intersection of tradition and transformation, this session will explore how the future of luxury retail can remain both timeless and innovative.
Graziano de Boni, Global CEO, Diane von Furstenberg - DVF Studio LLC
Erika Andreetta, Partner, PwC
Traditional luxury business models are being reshaped by shifting consumer behavior, the rise of secondhand markets, and the growing demand for hyper-personalization. As the industry faces mounting pressure to adapt, brands must rethink their competitive edge— whether through premium branding, frictionless convenience, cost efficiency, or immersive experiences. This session explores how lux- ury brands can expand strategically—leveraging experiential retail, new pricing models, and digital innovation—while preserving brand equity and exclusivity. Drawing from Barbara Kahn’s latest research, discover how leading brands are redefining engagement, unlocking new growth opportunities, and navigating the tension between heritage and disruption in the evolving luxury landscape.
Barbara E. Kahn, Patty and Jay H. Baker Professor of Marketing, The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania
The retail real estate sector is at an inflection point, driven by shifting market dynamics and evolving consumer expectations. As urban centers adapt to new realities, how can developers and retailers work together to future-proof retail spaces? This session examines the opportunities and challenges shaping the next era of retail real estate—from adopting innovative formats and sustainable practices to navigating economic uncertainties and leveraging advanced technologies. What strategies will define success in this rapidly changing landscape?
Eng. Faisal bin Abdulrahman Alnasser, CEO, Alandalus Property Co.
Ayman Mohammed Al Burti, CEO, Azad Properties
Khalid Aljanahi, Chief Commercial Officer, Cenomi Centers
Ibrahim Al Qasmi, CEO, Red Sea Markets
Ben Chesser, Founder & CEO, Coniq
In an era where consumer expectations are redefining retail, department stores face the challenge of balancing tradition with transformation. How are leaders adapting their strategies to create engaging, experience-driven spaces that resonate with modern shoppers? This session explores the innovative approaches reshaping department stores, from digital integration and sustainability to customer-centric design.
Philippe Pedone, International Vice President, Executive Board Member, Galleries Lafayette
David Wilkinson, Executive Director, Steen & Strøm
Selvane Mohandas du Ménil, Managing Director, International Association of Department Stores (IADS)
Explore how businesses can transform customer experiences into revenue-driving opportunities. What strategies can they adopt to turn every customer moment into a profit-generating opportunity? This session delves into strategies for enhancing customer
loyalty, leveraging data insights, and integrating personalized experiences that increase profitability. Industry leaders share actionable techniques to monetize touchpoints while ensuring long-term customer satisfaction and adaptability in dynamic markets.
Dennis Michael, Chief Business Development Officer, Cenomi Centers
Josef Seidler, Executive Director, Property Management, New Murabba Development Company
Rainer Usselmann, Co-Founder, Happy Finish
Isabelle Vantard, Director KSA, In The Memory
Zia Daniell Wigder, Chief Content Officer, EMARKETER
In an era defined by global mobility and rising consumer expectations, travel retail sits at the crossroads of convenience and aspiration.
As Saudi Arabia positions itself to become a leading global tourism destination, this sector plays a central role in the Kingdom’s economic and cultural evolution, offering a unique opportunity to redefine the very essence of retail in transit. Can the industry reimagine how it engages travelers, seamlessly blending convenience with luxury, to bring the Kingdom’s vision as a global gateway to life?
Umair Ansari, SVP/GM Travel Retail UK & EMEA, The Estée Lauder Companies Inc.
Mohammed Al-Dabbagh, Managing Director – KSA, Chalhoub Group
Abdullah K. Al-Salem, Commercial Business Development General Manager, Riyadh Airports Company
Reina Takla, Business Editor - Head of Business Section, Arab News
Saudi Arabia’s food and retail sectors are navigating a complex landscape where price sensitivity and the growing prominence of discounters intersect with a rising demand for healthier, personalized, and sustainable options. With the population expected to grow by over 6 million by 2030, how can businesses balance affordability with innovation?
Bandar Al Saeedi, VP Commercial, Panda Retail Corp.
Dalia Salib, Chief Marketing and Growth Officer, Mars Middle East and Africa
Dr. Solaiman Al-Twaijri, CEO, National Agricultural Development Company (NADEC)
Mansour AlShamrani, Head of Corporate Affairs for KSA & GCC, PepsiCo
Mohammed Dhedhi, Partner, Kearney
The potential of human capital to ignite transformation has never been greater. Talent drives the creation of high-performance cultures, reshapes inclusive work environments, and unlocks productivity and innovation at scale. In an age of disruption, does sustainable growth hinge on merely adapting to workforce shifts, or on positioning talent as the architect of exceptional customer experiences and strategic business reinvention?
Prince Waleed Bin Nasser Al Saud, Founder and CEO, Mukatafa Company
Ali Shareif, CEO, Al Othaim Life
Ahmad AR BinDawood, CEO, BinDawood Holding
Pauline Coquet, Partner, Bain & Company
Our Partners
























The topics and the agenda ar e fantastic, addressing the trends and challenges of the hour—this is a big part of RLC’s success.
Yasser Joharji
CEO, Nahdi Medical Company



RLC has become the leading conference for retail in the region and especially in Saudi, and we are very happy to be their headline partners.
Neeraj Teckchandani
CEO, Apparel Group



RLC blew my mind—it’s far bigger and more impactful than I imagined, in the best way possible.
Graziano de Boni
Global CEO, Diane von Furstenberg – DVF Studio LLC
