Spring Fair has named the first speakers for the Heart of Retail Stage at its 2027 edition, which takes place at the NEC Birmingham from 7 to 10 February 2027.
The show will welcome retail leaders and entrepreneurs to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing the industry.
The initial line-up spans retail groups, garden retailing, public advocacy and entrepreneurship: 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.
Confirmed sessions will examine Debenhams' digital transformation, independent retail, leadership, customer experience and the future of the high street. Paphitis is scheduled to deliver the closing conversation, A Love Letter to Retail, on 10 February.
The wider programme is built around ten themes, including sustainability, emerging brands, customer loyalty, AI and technology, business growth, and championing independent retailers.
Fay Tranter, event director at Spring Fair, said the aim was to assemble speakers capable of challenging assumptions, passing on their experience and sending retailers away with practical ideas.
More speakers and programme details are to be announced in the coming months. Registration is free for retail buyers and industry professionals.