THE WORLD RETAIL CONGRESS: CHALLENGES AND CHANGE
According to the 800+ professionals at the recent World Retail Congress gathering in London, the future of retail is encouraging and full of opportunity. Despite current uncertainty about tariffs and possible price increases, WRC speakers and thought leaders from across the globe shared plenty of reasons for optimism.
American menswear designer Todd Snyder took the stage to discuss his journey and share insights into the future. Spearheading a U.S. expansion this fall and with a “dream” of international presence, he reflected on his storied path. “I’ve been fortunate to work with amazing people. Working for Mickey Drexler was probably my biggest influence. But also, I got to work for John Varvatos at Ralph Lauren, who turned out to be an incredible mentor to me. He is a real gentleman.”
Commenting on his 20+ stores in the U.S., Todd noted that he opened stores during the pandemic in their largest markets. “There’s still tons of opportunity,” he observed.
About being in London and the retail environment: “It’s amazing here! I just love retailers in London; men here like clothes, so it gives me a whole different perspective. It makes you realize that even if you’re doing things right, maybe you could use some new ideas. Maybe change things up a little…”
Since FGI is a partner organization with WRC, this writer had the honor to be a judge in the (WRC) Future Retail Challenge, reviewing college team presentations tackling a crucial industry issue. “I want a good job but not in retail!!” expresses an attitude embraced by the Gen Z workforce, representing over 27% of the total workforce. These young people have cultivated unique personality traits, preferring entrepreneurship and start-ups over traditional corporate roles. Their values have been shaped by economic instability, the COVID-19 pandemic, and early integration of technology.
The schools competing and traveling to London were EDHEC Business School, France, ESCP Business School, Turin, Hong Kong Polytechnic; London College of Fashion; University of Amsterdam and Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman Uni, a first-time entry.
The winning team, University of Amsterdam, presented a plan for the women and men Gen Z hires, with priorities focused on an interactive hiring process, a developed employee token system for awards, flexible hours, a progressive growth path, and maintaining an individual, social identity, documenting their work within the brand. Mental health was a priority across all schools.
The future of retail: interactive, growing, and full of possibilities. The next WRC will take place 27th – 29th April 2026 at the Intercontinental Hotel in Berlin.
Maryanne Grisz is a global producer, specializing in brand strategies with digital and experiential initiatives in fashion, film, music and the art world. She is President and CEO for the Fashion Group International, a worldwide, membership nonprofit organization of industry leaders in the fashion, beauty, lifestyle and retail sectors. With FGI global headquarters in New York, Maryanne oversees and directs international marketing, branding and growth strategy for 26 international FGI regions.