Spring Fair has announced the first speakers for its 2027 Heart of Retail Stage, setting out an early programme for the retail trade event at NEC Birmingham from 7 to 10 February 2027. The show will welcome retail leaders and entrepreneurs for discussions on the challenges and opportunities facing the industry.
The confirmed speakers are Dan Finley, chief executive of Debenhams Group; Alan Roper, chief executive of Blue Diamond Garden Centres; Emma Jones CBE, Small Business Commissioner; Helen Dickinson, chief executive of the British Retail Consortium; and retail entrepreneur Theo Paphitis.
Organisers said sessions will examine Debenhams’ digital transformation, independent retail, leadership, customer experience and the future of the high street. Paphitis will close the stage programme on 10 February with a conversation titled “A Love Letter to Retail”.
The wider programme will cover 10 themes, including sustainability, emerging brands, customer loyalty, AI and technology, business growth and championing independent retailers.
Fay Tranter, event director at Spring Fair, said the programme aims to bring together voices that can challenge thinking, share experience and offer retailers practical ideas to take away.
Further speakers and programme details are due to be announced in the coming months. Registration is free for retail buyers and industry professionals.