Full Agenda

Take a look at our full agenda for the inaugural Talking Retail Live conference that took place on Thursday 27 March 2025. 

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.

VIEW THE 2026 KEY THEMES

2025 Agenda

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Registration, Opening and Networking
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Opening Address and Welcome from the Chair
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Lightning Talk: Responsible Retailing – Ensuring Compliance and Building Trust

Hear two lightning talks on how UK independent retailers can uphold responsible practices to ensure compliance and build trust with customers and local communities.

Led by 

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Safer Stores and Smart Security: Leveraging Tech Solutions to Tackle Crime in Independent Stores

Speakers in this session will explore the critical role of AI and technology in tackling the growing challenges of theft, robbery, and burglary in independent retail stores. This discussion will focus on how retailers can utilise innovative solutions to protect their businesses while maintaining a secure and customer-friendly environment.

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Maintaining a Competitive Edge in a Changing Market

This session will explore how independent retailers can leverage data and technology to stay competitive in an ever-evolving marketplace. From understanding market trends to utilising cutting-edge AI tools, this interactive session will demonstrate practical ways to empower retailers to adapt and thrive.

Led by 

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Morning Networking Coffee Break
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Clever Cuts and Smart Savers - Strategies for Streamlining Efficiency

Dave Webb, joined by a panel of independent retailers, will discuss practical ways for retailers to optimise their operations and reduce costs. What measures can stores take to manage expenses without compromising service quality and customer satisfaction?

  • Reducing energy costs – exploring cost-effective energy solutions, from efficient lighting to renewable energy options
  • Strategies for navigating labour costs from optimizing staffing levels to adjusting scheduling
  • Examining technological solutions to improve operational efficiency without compromising service

Led by 

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Lightning Talk: 10ml Vapes, Tax Updates, and What it Means for Retailers

Led by 

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What’s Next for Nicotine Products?

This session will explore the evolving vape market following the decline of single-use products and the rise of alternative nicotine products. How can UK independent retailers navigate this shift, support their customers, and leverage it as an opportunity for growth?

  •  Examining the latest advancements in nicotine products, from refillable systems to alternatives such as nicotine pouches
  • Strategies for educating and supporting customers as they adapt to new vape and alternative products to ensure a smooth transition
  • Turning change into opportunity – identifying ways retailers can use the transition to diversify their offerings and attract new customers

Led by 

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Special Guest Speaker: Graham Gooch
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Lunch Break and Networking
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Lightning Talks: Engaging, Attracting, and Retaining Shoppers

Hear two 10-minute presentations to showcase how UK independent retailers can draw customers into their stores through effective marketing strategies and create an engaging in-store experience that encourages them to stay, followed by a question-and-answer session.

Talk 1 - Creating a Memorable Instore Experience: Susan Nash, Trade Communication Manager, Mondelēz International
Led by  

Talk 2 - Harnessing the Power of Social Media: Bobby Singh, Managing Director, Boghar Brothers

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Fighting Back: Combatting Illicit Trade in Independent Retail

Illicit trade is a growing threat to UK retailers and the communities they serve. In midst of concerns that the proposed Tobacco and Vapes Bill will only make the situation worse, it is time to focus on what can be done to help curb this issue.

Our panel of guest speakers will delve into the serious impacts that illicit trade poses, how to report suspicious activity, and what can be done to support local authorities in their fight against illicit trade.

Together, they will answer the question – what can you do to fight against illicit trade?

Led by  

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What’s in Store for the Future of Independent Retail?

This session begin with a 15 minute presentation from Phil Burch, Mondelēz, followed by a panel discussion. It will provide insights into key trends shaping the future of independent retail. How will e-commerce growth, new technologies, and evolving consumer expectations impact the industry over the coming year?

  • Discussing emerging technologies, such as AI and automated checkout systems, that are transforming the retail experience
  • Adapting to shifting consumer expectations – understanding new consumer priorities and capitalising on new trends
  • The next big thing- examining ways in which stores are increasing their offerings through methods such as home deliveries and vending

Led by    

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Closing Remarks