Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie joins Paul McMahon, Executive Council Member of Belfast Chamber of Trade and Commerce, at the launch of Retail NI 09, Northern Ireland’s first ever conference on Retail.
Retailers in Northern Ireland are invited to the region’s first ever retail conference, Retail NI, to be held at the Stormont Hotel on 17th September. At a time of unprecedented economic difficulties retailers will hear from a number of expert speakers with experience across a multitude of retail sectors.
With many retailers still experiencing the sharp end of the downturn in domestic and consumer spending ‘Survive and Grow’ will be the central theme of the high-profile event. Those attending will be engaged by speakers on topics including multiple retailing, the roles of town centers and independents, attracting cross-border trade as well as the economic forecast for sector over the next 12 months.
In the first of two key note addresses First Minister Peter Robinson will outline his vision of the sector’s role in Northern Ireland plc as it faces towards its future, before the retailing giant Sir Stuart Rose, Executive Chairman of Marks & Spencer shares his expertise on ‘Retailing strategies in a slowing market’.
The conference is being organised by the Belfast Chamber of Trade and Commerce, where President John Moore will welcome delegates along with The Lord Mayor of Belfast Cllr Naomi Long MLA.
Mr. Moore said, “As retailers we are all experiencing difficult times in the current economic context. That is why it is vital we use this opportunity to develop a coherent vision for the sector and its role in the Northern Ireland economy.
“Many retailers across Northern Ireland are struggling to cope in the downturn. ‘Retail NI 09′ provides both access to expertise from those at the pinnacle of the sector but also to economic policy makers, commentators and stakeholders whose influence can very often affect bottom lines both on Main Street and High Street.
“Our offering is improving with highly-competitive pricing, a healthy independent sector delivering choice, and a growing tourism industry complementing the domestic market. There is always room for improvement and this conference will identify where there may be shortcomings in policy making and supporting infrastructure, which if addressed will deliver for the retail sector.”
Retail-led regeneration will be the focus of Minister for Social Development Margaret Ritchie’s address to delegates with an examination of how retail can be a key driver in transforming urban spaces and communities.
Highlighting examples of best practice will be a key feature of ‘Retail NI 09′ with retailers detailing how they have coped with the economic climate and continue to perform strongly. Domestic examples of success will not be neglected with the President of Newry Chamber of Trade and Commerce Mary Doran outlining how the city has enjoyed an influx of with cross-border weekend shoppers over recent months.
Anyone interested in attending should contact n.evans@belfastcentre.com.
