What's happening in UK Retailing?
‘This is really a unique time in the development of UK retailing. The structure and economics of retailing are changing and as a result, these are probably the most challenging times seen in 21 years of analysing and commenting on the retail sector. Discussing, debating, talking through and experiencing and sharing views is enormously valuable in being able to meet the challenges that prevail in retail today.”
Richard Hyman (2006)
The Panel of Retail experts
Richard Hyman, The Chairman of the panel - In 1984 he set up Verdict Research which is recognised as a leader in analysis and commentary to the UK retail sector and 21 years later he sold his business to Data Monitor and continues as Managing Director of Verdict Consulting. He is highly respected for his insight and understanding of the retail sector.
Richard Ratner, Vice Chairman of Seymour Pierce - Game keeper in that he had 10 years in the textile industry running a listed company which he sold out off. For the last 25 years he’s been fooling people that he knows something about retail, you could sum it up that he’s the Ratner that talks rubbish rather then sells it!
Richard Akers, Managing Director Retail of Land Securities - This is a property company so he’s not going to propound on deflation, but his role is to run the retail portfolio at Land Securities, which is valued at 7.6 billion. It’s comprised primarily of town centre shopping centres and also some retail parks, supermarkets and shops in central London.
Richard Jones, Director TU Clothing, J Sainsbury plc – He’s responsible in orchestrating the construction of the clothing business within Sainsbury’s the two brands and having done 17.5 years at M&S before that.
Gareth Thomas, Director of Retail Operations, John Lewis - He has worked for John Lewis for a very long time now, and had very much a John Lewis life. He’s been Director of Retail Operations for the last 6 years and takes board responsibility for sales and profitability of the division. In reality, that adds up to everything that the customer experiences, so he is responsible for everything from the look and feel of their shops to customer service and the presentation of stock and so on.
