As the retail landscape in Western Canada accelerates into the future, Retail Council of Canada’s Retail West Conference is once again proving itself as the cornerstone for innovative thought sharing, transformative insights, and invaluable networking. With the Agenda designed to address the issues facing retailers in Western Canada, each session will provide both unique perspectives and solutions-based recommendations.
For any retailer considering whether to attend, let’s look what Western Canadian influencers Sharon Hayles from Diane’s Lingerie, Jackie Ross from JRoss Recruiters, and Polly Tracey from Best Buy Canada and are saying about Retail West 2023:
1. Given the changing retail landscape, how crucial is participating at Retail West in providing insight to today’s retailers?
Sharon Hayles (Diane’s Lingerie): “Retail West isn’t just another conference; it’s the conference. This conference touches on relevant issues trending in the retail landscape. It brings together global insights with Western Canadian considerations for building forward-thinking strategies and offering unique insights to navigate the evolving retail terrain. I especially like that there are both big and independent retailers sharing their learnings. “
2. Of the many sessions on the packed Agenda, which holds the most interest for you and why?
Jackie Ross (JRoss Recruiters): “I’m a raving fan of David Lui. I’m looking forward to his opening mainstage session with Michael LeBlanc, exploring the development of Unity Brands and its recent acquisition of Vancouver-based Kit and Ace and local footwear brand Casca. David’s optimistic nature and enthusiasm about the future of Canadian retail is always infectious. He is a progressive leader and outstanding entrepreneur. His partnership with Joe Mimran and Frank Rochetti, brings a trifecta of talent to the table with marketing, product design and operational expertise to promote products that focus on fashion, wellness, and an active lifestyle on a national and global scale. It’s exciting to watch more Western Canadian-centric and Canadian-focused brands thriving.”
3. With many retail leaders and visionaries present, who are you most looking forward to connecting with at the conference?
Jackie Ross (JRoss Recruiters): “Michele Guimond from MEC as well as Kriston Dean from Purdys Chocolatier, Rachel Mielke from Hillberg & Berg, and Ashely Freeborn from Smash + Tess are such inspirational leaders whose work and accomplishments I have also admired for years. And I always love seeing my friend David Ian Gray from Dig360. We love to get together for drinks and insights afterward and recap the day.”
4. How do you think Retail West offers a different perspective or set of insights compared to other conferences in the industry?
Polly Tracey (Best Buy): “Retail West is a ‘for retail, by retail’ conference, so I find it tackles real issues, happening right now.”
Jackie Ross (JRoss Recruiters): “I like the intimate setting. There are opportunities to make meaningful connections and expand your network, providing you and your teams with exposure to peers, experts, and potential partners. I’ve made so many great connections at this conference over the years and have lots of friends in the room! So, if you are looking to get introductions, come find me, introduce yourself and I’m happy to help! ”
5. Finally, for retailers on the fence about attending, what would you say is the ‘can’t miss’ component of this year’s Retail West?
Polly Tracey (Best Buy): “ I think it’s the efficiency of so much offered in one day – jam-packed schedule, a wide variety of topics and formats, networking and connecting. I particularly like the breakout sessions – the smaller audiences mean there are often more candid questions asked.”
The endorsements are clear: Retail West 2023 is an experience, an opportunity, and perhaps most importantly, one of the most effective forums for exploring the changes in retail in Western Canada and the opportunities for innovation. Whether you’re a seasoned retail veteran or a new entrant, the promise of the event is undeniable.
Ticket for Retail West can be purchased here. A 20% discount applies to groups of 5 our more.
