Global Retail Experts Gather During DSF 2002

IIR is organsing the 1st Middle East Retail Federation Convention in March, we have international speakers participating in the event aimed at retailers.

Retailing, perhaps more than any other industry, has recently had its equilibrium upset. Firstly, the promise of the internet and paradigm rattling e-tailors commanding billion dollar market caps and now the dot.com clearly humbled e-tailors moving in with bricks and mortar parents - with all retailers struggling for sales growth in a worried economy.

Amid this chaos, retail Chief's face a myriad of uncertainties and strong challenges as to where the industry is headed and what steps must be taken to retain the customer. Their task is to define, anticipate and respond to converging trends that will shape the future.

But what are those trends and what are the forces driving change in today's markets? What will the customer of the future look like and how will the smart retailers implement business practice to accommodate the new concepts.

Expert speakers will examine these critical factors in addition to cost effective product sourcing, how generate revenue from the same walls, what drives retail value in the Middle East and how to make your merchandise shopable and profitable at the
1st Middle East Retail Federation Convention.

Supported by the International Retail Federation USA and organised by IIR Holdings Middle East, this conference is already proving its popularity.

"This is the best retail gathering ever witnessed in the Gulf to date and I am delighted to be involved. It expertly addresses the major issues facing retailers today." said Michael Stanier, Managing Director of Marks and Spencers Outlet Business Unit in the UK and Convention Chairman.

Taking place at the end of March, during the renowned Dubai Shopping Festival, the
1st Middle East Retail Federation Convention promises to give a unique focus for retailers in the region.

Many blue chip companies are participating including Timberland, Marks and Spencers, Accenture, MEXX, KPMG, Hewlett Packard, Oracle International, Bluewater UK, Accenture, and includes Accessorize and Monsoon case studies

The retail industry has long awaited their own association and Middle East Retail Federation Association will allow retailers and their associates to meet regularly to discuss the state of the nation, and also receive regular newsletters. Additional benefits will include discounts for conference and training seminars in the Middle East directly related to the retail industry and discounted rates for the International Retail Federation membership and conferences.

For further information contact:
Sheena Mullinger
International Development Director
IIR Holdings Middle East
Dubai

Tel: +971 4 351 2777
e-mail: sheena@iirgulf.com