2026 RLC Global Forum concludes in Riyadh, advancing the global retail agenda
The 2026 RLC Global Forum concluded in Riyadh after two days of high-level dialogue, convening senior executives, policymakers, and investors to reassess value creation and long-term strategy at a pivotal moment for global retail, consumer, and lifestyle sectors.
Sharpening strategy amid volatility
Day two focused on how leaders are recalibrating in the face of market volatility, capital discipline, and rapid technological change. Discussions emphasized the rising importance of brand ownership, long-term stewardship, and stronger investment judgment. Merchandising excellence, localization, and deep consumer insight were highlighted as key sources of competitive advantage—especially in fast-evolving markets across Saudi Arabia and the wider Gulf.
From experimentation to infrastructure in AI
Technology and influence emerged as a central theme. Speakers explored how artificial intelligence is shifting from pilot programs to foundational infrastructure, reshaping forecasting, risk management, and digital commerce, including new agent-driven models. The agenda also spotlighted the growth of homegrown Gulf brands and an evolving creator economy where credibility and authenticity increasingly determine brand relevance and scale.
Retail real estate’s next chapter
Retail real estate took center stage as leaders examined how physical environments must evolve to meet rising consumer expectations. In a session on the future of retail spaces, panelists stressed the importance of a curated brand mix, operational flexibility, and experience-led design to sustain performance in more complex markets.
“Retail today is no longer measured only by transactions, but by relevance, connection, and the ability to earn not only share of wallet but share of time and share of heart. That is the thinking behind Dhahran Mall’s TAJDEED. It is a strategic renewal focused on creating a place people belong to, return to, and choose to spend their time in, strengthening everyday experience while deepening long-term emotional connection with our community,” said Majid Abdullah Algothmi, Acting CEO of RED Malls and COO Azad Properties.
Merchandising discipline and regional capability
A dedicated fireside chat previewed insights from a joint RLC–BCG initiative on the future of merchandising. The discussion covered how retailers are tightening assortment strategies, refining pricing, and applying greater promotional discipline, while benchmarking regional capabilities against global best practices.
Championing sustainable fashion innovation
The Forum welcomed the second edition of the Kering Generation Award x MENA 2026, reinforcing a shared commitment to advancing sustainable fashion innovation in the region and nurturing the next generation of creative talent.
NextGeneration Retail Challenge: winners announced
Finalists of the NextGeneration Retail Challenge, developed with Tamara, presented their solutions to industry leaders at the Forum. The top three teams—Mersad, Bite Box, and Riyal—received cash prizes along with access to mentorship and future development opportunities, accelerating their pathways to market impact.
Recognizing lifetime achievement
On 3 February, the Forum honored leaders whose contributions have had a lasting impact on global retail with the RLC Honors Lifetime Achievement Awards. These awards celebrate individuals whose innovation, strategic insight, and bold vision have reshaped modern retail, redefining standards of excellence and inspiring future generations.
The 2026 honorees were Marco Bizzarri, former CEO of Gucci and entrepreneur-investor, and Ingie Chalhoub, Founder & President of Etoile Group, who received the Lifetime Achievement Award for Excellence in Luxury Retail and the Lifetime Achievement Award for Pioneering Women’s Leadership in Retail, respectively. Both honorees participated as speakers at the Forum. The RLC Honors Dinner, co-hosted with Hamat, welcomed more than 150 select guests.
Driving purposeful collaboration
By convening global retail leaders and key stakeholders, the 2026 RLC Global Forum enabled meaningful dialogue that informs strategic decisions and addresses the forces transforming both global and local markets. The event underscored a commitment to collaboration, purpose-led initiatives, and the continued evolution of the retail ecosystem.
About RLC Global Forum
The RLC Global Forum is a platform that brings together influential brand and retail leaders, innovators, and policymakers to drive positive industry change. It builds on the Retail Leaders Circle’s twelve-year mission to connect and empower decision-makers across retail and consumer-facing sectors. Beyond its Annual Global Meeting in Riyadh, the Forum curates a portfolio of high-level gatherings worldwide, including the RLC Fashion Summit in Milan and the CEO Summit in New York.
