Full Agenda

Take a look at our agenda for the Talking Retail Live 2026 conference that will take place on Thursday 26 March 2026. 

For 2026, we will explore how retailers can safeguard customers, support employees, and operate efficiently while driving growth and trust. Through expert insights and practical strategies, we’ll examine the latest approaches to compliance, sustainability, healthy communities, and operational excellence, helping retailers navigate today’s challenges with confidence and integrity.

2026 Agenda

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Registration & Networking
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Opening & Welcome
Speaker
Editor
Independent Retail News
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Panel: Retail in Review– Challenges, Opportunities, and the Road Ahead

This panel brings an on the ground perspective to reflect on the year gone by, explore opportunities for growth, and discuss why collaboration across the sector is more important than ever.

Moderated by: David Shrimpton

Speakers
Editor
Independent Retail News
Managing Director
BOGHAR BROTHERS LIMITED
Managing Director
P & S Vekaria Limited
Business Owner
Torridon Partners
National Vice President
The Fed
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Presentation and Q+A: Protecting your Business — Fighting Illicit Trade and Shaping the Regulatory Rules Before They Shape You

This session will delve into how retailers can stand up and make sure their voices are heard in the wake of new regulations that will impact their stores, and how retailers can help combat the growth of the illicit trade in tobacco, vape, and nicotine products with anti-illicit trade initiatives.

Speaker
Government Affairs Manager
BAT UK
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Presentation and Q+A: The Value Available by Working with Trusted Suppliers

This session focuses on the value retailers can unlock by working with trusted suppliers, offering practical insights on how strong field force support, recognised brands, and supplier platforms can increase visibility while building consumer confidence.

Speaker
Head of Independents & Symbols
BAT UK
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Coffee Break & Networking
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Panel: Raising a Glass to Low and No Alcohol Opportunities

This session explores the rise of low and no alcohol drinks, offering practical insights on how retailers can expand their range, attract health-conscious customers, and encourage mindful drinking habits.

Moderated by: Annabelle Bonus

Speakers
Director of Research, Strategy and Insights
Drinkaware
Business Owner
Torridon Partners
CEO
Association of Convenience Stores
Director of Category & Brand Insight
Molson Coors
Senior Customer Manager
Heineken UK
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Panel: Core Before More - Unlocking Value Through Space, Layout, and Format

This session explores how retailers can grow core range sales by getting the fundamentals right first - prioritising core lines, optimising shelf space and layout, using the right mix of formats and maximising the role of PMPs.

Moderated by: David Shrimpton

Speakers
Editor
Independent Retail News
Category Management Controller
PepsiCo
Managing Director
BOGHAR BROTHERS LIMITED
Owner
St John's Budgens Kenilworth
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Special Guest Keynote Address: Mark Ramprakash
Speaker
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Lunch Break
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TouchTree: A New Way to View your Digital Edition
Speaker
Commercial Manager
Independent Retail News
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Presentation and Q+A: Stepping into the Future of Convenience
Mondelēz International bring their expertise of the convenience sector to independent retailers, to help bring to life the convenience store of the future for you. Broaden your understanding of key trends for successful convenience retailing, such as food to go, meal for tonight, community and sustainability. Be inspired and find out how these trends relate to you and the possibilities they could deliver.
Speakers
Category Controller, Convenience,
Mondelēz International
UK Sustainability Lead
Mondelēz International
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Panel: Community that Counts- Building Meaningful Retail Connections

This session explores how retailers can build stronger relationships with customers and suppliers, both in-store and online. Learn how community engagement, partnerships, and digital connectivity can help attract new business and strengthen your store’s role at the heart of the local area and beyond.

Moderated by: Bill Sherry

Speakers
Owner
Londis Bexley Park
Owner
Londis Harefield
Group Publisher
Packaging News, DFNI, Talking Retail, IRN and Motor Trader
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Close & Key Takeaways
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Refreshments and Networking