LFRA Forum 2024: A Day of Insight and Innovation
The Large Format Retail Association (LFRA) recently hosted its third Forum for 2024 at Crown Sydney, marking a significant occasion for the Large Format Retail sector to converge for a day of learning and networking. The event brought together 230 LFRA members and featured a dynamic agenda that showcased the latest in retail innovation and sustainability.
Opening remarks by LFRA CEO Philippa Kelly set the stage for an engaging day focussed on key industry trends and emerging technologies.
In his President’s address, Zac Fried provided members with a sector recap, and covering LFRA initiatives and strategic goals.
His address emphasised the LFRA’s commitment to advocating for key issues affecting the sector, such as promoting clarity, consistency, and certainty in Australia’s various planning regimes related to Large Format Retail.
One of the most anticipated segments was the Fireside Chat with Mirja Viinanen, CEO and Chief Sustainability Officer at IKEA Australia.
Moderated by Philippa Kelly, the discussion offered a deep dive into IKEA’s transformation journey, highlighting its focus on enhancing the omni-channel experience, affordability strategies, and sustainability efforts.
Viinanen shared insights on how IKEA is adapting to market needs and expanding its service models, including ventures in New Zealand.
Attendees enjoyed a number of other presentations throughout the day including the Large Format Retail Sales Report, by Craig Woolford, Senior Research Analyst with MST Marquee, offering members valuable data and trends on the retail market.
Looking ahead, the LFRA 2025 overseas study tour in Miami was announced with Phil Schoutrop, Director, Buchan promising an exciting opportunity for members to gain international perspectives and insights into global retail trends.
The LFRA Explore and Networking Session gave all members the chance to explore the latest products and solutions from leading industry players such as Platinum member CBRE and other key contributors, Major Media Pty Ltd, tutch., and Signify.
An additional highlight of the Forum was the panel discussion titled “How is AI Transforming the Retail Landscape?”, which included Tim de Sousa, Managing Director at FTI Consulting; Rhys Munzel, Partner at FAL Lawyers; and Martijn Douven, Head of Retail & Hospitality Business APAC at Signify.
The session explored the transformative potential of AI in the retail sector, encompassing the need for robust risk management, new regulations addressing AI impacts, and strategies for balancing AI’s advantages with potential challenges.
The panel discussion was followed by a presentation on Sustainability Compliance, Trends and Key Energy Opportunities by Julian Cook, Senior Engineer with COVA Group.
The LFRA Forum 2024 provided a comprehensive platform for industry professionals to engage with the latest developments in LFR. The event successfully combined informative presentations and valuable networking opportunities, reflecting LFRA’s commitment to supporting its members facilitating valuable industry connections.
