Overview
The Retail Leaders Circle Global Forum,where we proudly served as the knowledge partner, is a platform where global retailers, policymakers, and innovators gather. The forum addressed the biggest topics and focused on generating actionable solutions and bridging divides in a polarized landscape.
Key topics included the new global retail order, the impact of artificial intelligence, the imperative of ethical digital inclusion, and rising challenges in international markets. These challenges encompass escalating trade, regulatory and cost pressures, global sourcing and supply chain issues, and the essential push for sustainable profitable growth.
Our Sessions
February 4, 11:40 a.m.—12:00 p.m. AST
Fireside Chat | Navigating A New Frontier: Social Commerce — Building Communities, Not Just Sales
In a world where digital and physical boundaries are increasingly blurred, social commerce is revolutionizing not only how people, especially Gen Z and A, shop and connect with brands and each other. The fireside chat explored the social commerce as a transformative force capable of reshaping the entire retail ecosystem, and a discussion around the unprecedented potential for social platforms to drive cultural relevance, create immersive experiences, and redefine consumer relationships.
Our guest shared insights into how the new paradigm in social commerce is not merely about selling products but building communities, sparking conversations, and fostering loyalty that extends beyond transactions. Attendees gained a visionary perspective on how social commerce will continue to disrupt traditional retail models, challenge established norms, and create new opportunities for growth and innovation.
Moderator: Joe Abi Akl, partner and IMEA head of Retail and Consumer Goods, Oliver Wyman
Speaker: Shant Oknayan, VP of Global Business Solutions, Bytedance
February 5, 11:30 a.m.—12:15 p.m. AST
Private session | Identifying CxOs Top Priorities And Transformative Moments For The Year Ahead
An engaging and exclusive session where industry leaders and experts came together to explore transformative moments shaping the consumer landscape. This dynamic forum addressed current challenges, emerging trends, and strategic priorities for consumer-focused organizations. Gained insights, shared ideas, and connected with peers to navigate the evolving market and drive innovation for long-term success.
Presenter: Usman Iftikhar, principal, Retail and Consumer Goods, Oliver Wyman
February 5, 12:45 p.m.—1:05 p.m. AST
Panel Discussion | The Rise Of Value-Led Grocery — Opportunities In The GCC Market
The panel discussed how discount grocery retail has redefined Western grocery markets, with value-led players capturing over 20% of market share and reshaping the entire value chain. While such models have yet to gain significant traction in the GCC, nearly 70% of customers express a strong interest in shopping at discount-focused concepts. As the GCC grocery retail market matures and customer preferences diversify, how can the region capitalize on the value-led opportunity? What broader lessons from the rise of discount models can inspire innovative strategies and drive resilience in competitive markets? The session explored the successful discount retail formulas from the West, their adaptability to markets like Saudi Arabia and the UAE, and the strategic adjustments required for local success.
Moderator: Alexander Poehl, partner, Retail and Consumer Goods, Oliver Wyman
Panellists: Patrick Kaudewitz, CEO and founder, Kaudewitz Consulting GmbH; Abdullah Al Sabban, COO, Panda; Shehim Mohammed, director KSA, Lulu Saudi Hypermarkets LLC.
February 5, 1:15 p.m.—2:45 p.m. AST
Roundtable | Grocery Retail In KSA — Challenges And Opportunities
The roundtable meeting brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and market analysts to explore the profound transformation of Saudi Arabia's grocery sector. With the rise of discount retailers and value-based entrants, traditional business models are being challenged, reshaping consumer behavior and market dynamics. The roundtable focused on identifying the key drivers behind this shift, the impact of non-compliant imports and parallel FMCG distribution, and the steps required to ensure fair competition while fostering sustainable growth.
Presenter: Alexander Poehl, partner, Retail and Consumer Goods, Oliver Wyman
Facilitators: Joe Abi Akl, partner and IMEA head of Retail and Consumer Goods, Oliver Wyman; Panos Linardos, chairman, RLC Global Forum.
