Digital and Bricks&Mortar
One Magic Experience

The impact of digitalisation on retail and the economy is similar to the effects of industrialisation more than 200 years ago. Traditional retailing has been hit by these changes which have revolutionised how business is done and moved on customer expectations. New technologies, including artificial intelligence and big data, have created chances for new players to capture opportunities, and many established players now need to challenge their business and operating models to successfully steer their transformation. In this new eco-system, the digitalisation of information technology has made it possible for customers and retailers to instantly connect and share information on purchases, advice, requests and complaints. Meaning it is imperative for retailers to offer a fast, reliable and even more personalised service across all channels.

The 2017 Forum aims to address the interdisciplinary nature of these challenges by inviting contributions from world-class department stores and brands, as well as leading cross-industry and technology firms which carry out research and implementation on digital innovation and transformation issues. Topics due to be covered include how digital affects everything from online to offline; strategic issues related to online/digital/mobile/technology as a service enabler; and what retailers and, in particular, department stores need to do to stay in the game.

Simultaneous translation into Chinese will be provided during all sessions.