Spring Fair has announced the first speakers for its Heart of Retail Stage ahead of the show at NEC Birmingham from 7 to 10 February 2027. The event is intended to bring retail leaders and entrepreneurs together to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing the industry.
The initial lineup includes Dan Finley, chief executive of Debenhams Group; Alan Roper, chief executive of Blue Diamond Garden Centres; Emma Jones CBE, Small Business Commissioner; Helen Dickinson, chief executive of the British Retail Consortium; and retail entrepreneur Theo Paphitis. Their sessions are scheduled to address 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 organized around 10 themes, among them sustainability, emerging brands, customer loyalty, AI and technology, business growth and championing independent retailers.
Practical ideas for 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 expected to be announced in the coming months.
The first speaker announcement provides an early outline of the stage’s direction, while leaving the full schedule to be confirmed.
Registration is free for retail buyers and industry professionals.