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.
The initial line-up brings together 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.
What the sessions will cover
Talks are set 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 organised 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 is intended to bring together voices who can challenge thinking, share experience and offer retailers practical ideas to take away.
- Dates: 7–10 February 2027
- Venue: NEC Birmingham
- Registration: free for retail buyers and industry professionals
Further speakers and programme details are due to be announced in the coming months.