RLC Global Forum 2026: Riyadh's Growth Crossroads in Retail

The global retail and consumer landscape is on the cusp of significant transformation, a reality underscored by the upcoming 2026 RLC Global Forum in Riyadh. Scheduled for February 3-4, 2026, this pivotal event promises to be a convergence point for over 2,000 industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators from more than 40 countries. With its compelling theme, "Growth Crossroads," the forum aims to not only discuss but actively define the trajectory for the retail, consumer, and lifestyle sectors in the coming decade. This gathering in the dynamic capital of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh, signifies a strategic recognition of the Kingdom's burgeoning influence and its role as a bridge between East and West, tradition and cutting-edge innovation.

Unveiling the "Growth Crossroads" Theme in Riyadh

The selection of "Growth Crossroads" as the theme for the 2026 RLC Global Forum is particularly pertinent in an era characterized by unprecedented shifts in global economics and cultural paradigms. This theme is meticulously crafted to encapsulate the profound transformations reshaping global trade, consumption patterns, and leadership dynamics, with a specific emphasis on the evolving gravitational pull towards emerging markets. Riyadh, as the chosen host city, offers an unparalleled backdrop for this critical global dialogue. Its strategic geographical location at the nexus of the East and West positions it as a vibrant melting pot where rich traditions seamlessly blend with aspirations for innovation and future-forward development.

The forum is not merely a conference; it is envisioned as a catalyst for new conversations and collaborative frameworks that will underpin the next decade of prosperity. Panos Linardos, Chairman of the RLC Global Forum, eloquently articulated this vision, stating, "From Riyadh, a new conversation begins. By anchoring our 2026 year-round growth agenda and aligning with visionary partners like Cenomi Centers and Panda Retail Company, we reflect a broader truth: the next decade of prosperity will be defined by collaboration between emerging and established markets." This sentiment underscores the forum's commitment to fostering a truly inclusive and globally representative discourse on the future of retail and related industries.

A Deep Dive into the Six Defining Themes

To comprehensively address the complexities of the "Growth Crossroads," the RLC Global Forum has meticulously curated six defining themes, each designed to explore a crucial facet of the evolving global landscape:

• Growth in a Reordered World: This theme will examine the geopolitical and economic realignments influencing global markets, trade routes, and investment flows, providing insights into navigating new pathways for sustainable growth.
• AI and the Power of Multipliers: Focusing on the revolutionary impact of Artificial intelligence across all sectors, this segment will explore how AI acts as a multiplier, amplifying efficiency, innovation, and consumer engagement in retail and consumer industries.
• The Global South as Growth Engine: Acknowledging the demographic and economic might of countries in the Global South, this theme will highlight their critical role as primary drivers of future consumption and innovation, presenting opportunities for new market penetration and partnership.
• Experience as Growth Infrastructure: Moving beyond product and service, this theme will delve into how holistic customer experiences—both physical and digital—are becoming the fundamental infrastructure for business growth, fostering loyalty and driving demand.
• The Future Consumer Order: This theme will dissect the changing values, behaviors, and expectations of consumers worldwide, offering foresight into how businesses must adapt their strategies to meet the demands of a new generation of shoppers.
• Leadership Beyond Resilience: Addressing the need for proactive and adaptive leadership in an increasingly volatile world, this segment will explore strategies for foresight, agility, and sustainable decision-making that go beyond mere crisis response.

Strategic Alliances: Powering Saudi Arabia's Retail Vision

A significant highlight of the forum's preliminary announcements is the establishment of strategic partnerships with two prominent Saudi Arabian retail entities: Cenomi Centers and Panda Retail Company. These collaborations are more than mere sponsorships; they represent a powerful affirmation of Saudi Arabia’s burgeoning role as a dynamic force in the global retail narrative and its unwavering commitment to Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the economy and elevate the quality of life.

The involvement of such influential local partners ensures that the forum will not only offer a global perspective but also ground its discussions in the rich and rapidly evolving context of the Saudi Arabian market. This local integration is crucial for fostering meaningful dialogue and identifying actionable strategies relevant to both regional and international stakeholders.

Cenomi Centers: Redefining Customer Experience

Cenomi Centers, a titan in the Saudi retail landscape, brings invaluable expertise in creating world-class shopping and lifestyle destinations. Alison Rehill-Erguven, Chief Executive Officer at Cenomi Centers, emphasized their commitment, stating, "We are proud to partner with RLC Global Forum, a platform that shares our commitment to shaping the future of retail in Saudi Arabia. Cenomi’s participation reflects our dedication to driving innovation, collaboration, and excellence across the sector — contributing to the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals and redefining the customer experience through world-class destinations." This partnership underscores the importance of physical retail spaces evolving into experiential hubs that meet the contemporary consumer's desire for integrated lifestyle offerings.

Panda Retail Company: Sustainable Futures and Digital Transformation

Equally significant is the partnership with Panda Retail Company, a leading player in the grocery and hypermarket segment. Dr. Bander Hamooh, Chief Executive Officer of Panda Retail Company, articulated their forward-looking vision: "At Panda Retail Company, we are proud of our strategic partnership with 2026 RLC Global Forum and look forward to sharing our vision for the future of retail in the Kingdom and the region. Together with industry leaders from around the world, we aim to shape a more sustainable future, one that is centered on exceptional customer experience, enhanced by digital transformation and intelligent governance, and supported by sustainable supply chains that create lasting value for both society and the economy." This statement highlights the critical themes of sustainability, digital innovation (which often involves fintech solutions for payments, supply chain, etc.), and superior customer experience as cornerstones of modern retail strategy.

RLC Global Forum's Legacy and Future Impact

The 2026 RLC Global Forum marks the next crucial phase in the Retail Leaders Circle’s distinguished twelve-year mission. This mission has consistently focused on bridging divides and connecting decision-makers across the diverse retail and consumer sectors, fostering a collaborative environment for addressing industry challenges and opportunities. By bringing together such a high caliber of global leadership, the forum is poised to generate actionable insights, forge new partnerships, and inspire innovative approaches that will resonate throughout the international retail and consumer ecosystem.

Ultimately, the forum in Riyadh is not just an event; it is a declaration of a shared commitment to navigating the complexities of modern growth and forging a resilient, innovative, and customer-centric future for the retail, consumer, and lifestyle industries worldwide. It will serve as a beacon for strategic thinking, technological adoption, and sustainable practices, ensuring that the insights gained lead to tangible progress and collective prosperity.