Spring Fair has announced the first speakers for its Heart of Retail Stage, with the 2027 edition scheduled to take place at NEC Birmingham from 7 to 10 February 2027.
The organiser said the stage will welcome retail leaders and entrepreneurs for discussions on the challenges and opportunities facing the industry.
First speakers confirmed
- 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
- Theo Paphitis, retail entrepreneur
The announced speakers represent department store retail, garden centre retail, small business representation and trade body leadership.
Programme focus
Sessions will explore Debenhams' digital transformation, independent retail, leadership, customer experience and the future of the high street. Paphitis will deliver the closing conversation, A Love Letter to Retail, on 10 February.
The wider programme will cover 10 themes, including sustainability, emerging brands, customer loyalty, AI and technology, business growth and championing independent retailers.
Organiser comment
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.
Registration and next steps
Further speakers and programme details will be announced in the coming months. Registration is free for retail buyers and industry professionals.