Retail conference to address industry challenges

Cape Town - The annual South African Council of Shopping Centres (SACSC) Research Conference will take place in Johannesburg on 9 May.

The aim of this year's conference is to ensure the retail sector stays ahead of changes in technology, consumer behaviour and trends, which affect the sector both positively and negatively.

According to the SACSC, retail and shopping centres need to evolve in order to keep up with these changes.

This year also marks drastic changes in tax regulations and fuel levies which will further affect consumer spend and shopping patterns and this may create new trends.

Speakers will include Kundayi Manzara (director of Sesfikile Capital); political commentator Justice Malala; Lebo Motshegoa (managing director of Foshizi) and Martyn Davies of Deloitte.

According to Nomzamo Radebe, CEO of JHI, the research results and information that is shared at the event equip delegates with valuable insights that can directly impact success in this dynamic industry.

"At a time when consumer-behaviour is becoming increasingly difficult to predict and influence, and technology is developing at a rapid pace, it is imperative that we seek out information that empowers us," she said.

"To be aware of developing trends and being able to adapt and respond to them proactively, is how we can maintain our competitive edge. The benefits of a conference like this are enjoyed across this industry.”

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