Spring Fair has named the first speakers for its Heart of Retail Stage at the 2027 edition, which runs at NEC Birmingham from 7 to 10 February 2027 and will bring retail leaders and entrepreneurs together for discussions on the challenges and opportunities facing the industry.
The opening line-up includes Dan Finley, chief executive of Debenhams Group; Alan Roper, chief executive of Blue Diamond Garden Centres; Emma Jones CBE, the Small Business Commissioner; Helen Dickinson, chief executive of the British Retail Consortium; and retail entrepreneur Theo Paphitis.
Sessions on the stage will explore Debenhams' digital transformation, independent retail, leadership, customer experience and the future of the high street. Paphitis will deliver the closing conversation, titled A Love Letter to Retail, on 10 February.
The wider programme is built around 10 themes, among them sustainability, emerging brands, customer loyalty, AI and technology, business growth and championing independent retailers.
Fay Tranter, event director at Spring Fair, said the programme aims to bring together voices who can challenge thinking, share experience and offer retailers practical ideas to take away.
Further speakers and programme details are due to be announced in the coming months. Registration is free for retail buyers and industry professionals.