Speaker Portal

The World Retail Congress is taking place at the London, Hilton on Park Lane hotel. We recommend that you Book your stay in the London Hilton on Park Lane, where we have preferential rates for the venue for a limited time.

Address: London Hilton on Park Lane, 22 Park Lane, London, W1K 1BE, United Kingdom
Telephone: +44 20 7493 8000

• We encourage our speakers to attend the duration of the World Retail Congress. However, we appreciate that you lead very busy lives so if you’re unable to attend all days of the event, please ensure you arrive at the Hilton Park Lane Hotel at least one hour before you’re due to speak. 

• Upon arriving at the Hilton, please go to the Speaker Registration Desk located in the Ballroom Foyer, where you’ll be able to collect your badge to access the event. 

• Once you’ve collected your badge, please make your way to the Speaker & VIP Lounge, located in the Wellington & Harvest Suite

• At the speaker & VIP lounge you’ll be greeted 

• There will also be two technicians available to assist you with your presentation. 

• The lounge is reserved for our speakers and VIPs. There’ll be refreshments and seating for you to unwind & where applicable meet with your panellists before your session begins. 

• Please make your way to your stage 30 minutes prior to the start of your session. 

• Once at your stage, a stage manager will meet you and assist with you being miked up. 

Retailer speakers are entitled to a discount for additional retailer tickets. Please contact Niamh.stone@worldretailcongress.com if you would like to book an additional pass. 

You will have agreed your expenses with the World Retail Congress production team which will be paid 30 days post congress as long as you have invoiced us. You will be responsible for submitting your invoice within 30 days of the event finishing. After 30 days, invoices will no longer be accepted. 

Rehearsals / Pre-session meetings

1) Is there a room I can use to practice my presentation? Is there a room I can use to practice my presentation? 
Rehearsals are available for presentations only, on a first come first served basis and must be requested prior to the event by emailing Natalie Wilkins

2) Can I speak with my fellow panellists before the event?
We will be in contact with you to introduce you to your fellow panellists.

3) Can I see the questions I’ll be asked in my panel session beforehand?
One month before the event, we will introduce you to your fellow panellists and moderator via email. Panellists can then submit questions and key points they would like to cover during the session.

Presentations

1) Can I provide presentation slides for my panel session?Please note that as a panellist, you are not required to give a presentation. Please contact Natalie Wilkins if you would like to do so.  

2) What format do you need presentations in?
Presentations must be in PowerPoint widescreen 16:9 format, and must be submitted by email to Natalie Wilkins

3) What format do you need videos in?
Videos must be embedded in PowerPoint presentations, and need to be on automatic play. We also need the original video supplied separately as back-up in the video format MP4 H264 Codec.

4) Why do my slides need to be wide screen?
This is to ensure that the presentation fits on our event screen, if the presentation is in a different size it will not fit the screen and some text / visuals will be lost on screen.

5) Can I use my own laptop for my presentation?
If you are using your own computer you will need to use this from the lectern, therefore please inform Natalie Wilkins  at least 3 weeks prior to the event.

6) When do I need to send you my presentation?
The deadline date to submit is Monday 5th May

7) Who do I send my presentation slides to?
Please email your presentation to Natalie Wilkins

8) Can I check my presentation before my session?
Rehearsals are available for presentations only, on a first come first served basis and must be requested prior to the event by emailing Natalie Wilkins Please note that if a rehearsal has not been requested and confirmed by Natalie, you will not be able to check your presentation onsite.

9) I’ve made changes to my presentation. Can I bring an updated version with me?
Please bring this to us on a USB stick to your stage at least 1 hour before your session, so that we can upload it onto the system. After this time we will not be able to upload a new version of your presentation and the one that was submitted pre-event will be used.

10) Do I need to bring adaptors for my laptop if I’m using my own?
If you are using your own Macbook or iPad you will need to provide individual adaptors to DVI connector.

11) Can I send you a different version of my presentation to use on the website?
Yes, please bring this on a USB stick to your stage, or submit it to Natalie Wilkins within 3 days after the event.

12) Can I have copies of the presentations from the event?
Authorised presentations will be available on the website post-event.

General Information

1) What time do I need to arrive for my session?
You must arrive at your session location 15 minutes prior to your session.

2) Can I have the most up to date agenda?
All updates to the programme will appear on the event website, however we will also give you the most up to date programme on arrival at the event.

3) What time is my session?
Please see the most up to date agenda on the website. We will contact you if your timing has changed.

4) What room is my session taking place in?
Please see the most up to date agenda on the website. We will contact you if your session location has changed.

5) I want to change the title / topic for my session. How do I do this?
Please contact Natalie Wilkins kindly note that onsite changes are not permitted.

6) My details are incorrect on the website. How can I amend these?
Please contact  Natalie Wilkins 

7) I have a new photo. Can you use this one instead?
Please send your photo to Natalie Wilkins 

8) I have an updated bio. Can you use this one instead?
Please send your updated bio to Natalie Wilkins 

9) Can I attend all sessions if I want to?
Yes, all sessions are open to speakers and attendees.

10) Can I bring colleague(s)?
If you would like to bring a colleague, please contact Natalie Wilkins 

11) I haven’t completed the registration form, can I do this onsite?
No, you must complete the registration form pre-event. Failure to do so will result in you not being registered for the event and your badge will not be ready for collection onsite.

12) Can I pick-up my colleagues name badge?
No, you are only able to collect your own badge.

13) I need to buy extra passes, can I have a discount?
Retailer speakers are entitled to a 15% discount for extra passes for retailers. Please contact  Natalie Wilkins  for your unique discount code

14) Do you have any recommended hotels in the area?
This information will be provided shortly.

Photos and Filming

1) Can I have photos of my session?
Please contact  Natalie Wilkins  prior to the event if you would like to request photos.

2) Can I have photos of my session on the day?
Photos are not available onsite.

3) Will all sessions be photographed / filmed?
All sessions will be photographed, however they will not be filmed.

4) Will you be sending / sharing all the photos from the event?
A selection of photographs will be shared on the event website post-event.

Each year, the World Retail Congress brings together a world-renowned collection of speakers, panelists and contributors to the stage to share stories of challenges and victories. This agenda of keynotes, panels and workshops is carefully crafted in order to allow delegates to be inspired, take away practical lessons for their business and dive into the subjects that matter most to them.  

Alongside its main agenda, the Congress is also home to a number of fringe programmes; events, sessions and tours that complement the learning happening elsewhere. These fringe programmes are designed for specific groups to connect, learn and share with each other – giving all attendees a more dynamic and personal experience of the Congress.  

In 2025, we are delighted to share that many fringe programmes have been expanded and developed with insight from our incredible advisory board and wider WRC community: 

Flagship Store Tours 

Physical retail is special. The joy of discovery, the deeper connection with a brand and the immersion in a shopping experience that cannot be replicated. And what better city than London to explore new, exciting developments in-store? 

In 2024, the World Retail Congress reinvented the “store tour”. Driven by guidance from our community, Flagship Store Tours were the result. These incredible, in-depth tours give attendees the opportunity to go behind-the-scenes at some of the world’s most iconic stores that are defining the industry. 

Participants choose from a selection of impressive flagships to visit and are greeted and guided through the store by their CEOs and senior executive teams. Taking place ahead of the official opening of the Congress on Monday 12th May, this programme is designed to spotlight the most inspirational in-store experiences in the city and allow attendees to truly see London retail like never before.  

This is a unique opportunity to put questions directly to the minds behind top retail businesses and get an unprecedented view of some of the most iconic retailers. 

Sign-up only. Spaces limited. Monday 12th May, 2:00 – 4:00pm 

Confirmed stores: 

Primark, led by Paul Marchant, CEO 

Tesco, led by Ken Murphy, CEO 

Selfridges

More stores will be confirmed in due course

Accelerator Programme 

In working closely with those leading the industry, along with our Advisory Board, one thing that is clear is how important it is to nurture the talent within retail businesses that exists just a few levels below the Executive or Main Board.   

The World Retail Congress Accelerator Programme is a specially designed agenda for those senior executives within retail businesses looking for a wider knowledge and understanding of the industry and preparing for top leadership. In private, invitation-only sessions run alongside the main Congress agenda, delivered by a line-up of the top voices within the industry, participants in the Accelerator Programme will get a fast-track through lessons in running successful global businesses: from leadership advice from those who have been-there and done-it to specific workshops around transformation.  

This curated group will receive a truly incomparable education through behind-the-scenes access to leaders ready to share their years of experience and advice as well as a peer group of global executives to learn from and share with.  

Participants must be nominated and accepted on the programme. Spaces limited. 

Agenda to be released. 

Future Retail Challenge sponsored by Tendam

Each year, the Congress puts future retail talent at the heart of the event with a special competition based around a specific retail “challenge” which we set for teams of students from retail, fashion and business colleges from around the world. Over the years we have welcome teams from New York, London, Lille, Milan, Hong Kong, Amsterdam, Tokyo and Mumbai. Our panel of retail judges set the annual challenge which focuses on a relevant topic that resonates with all retail leaders. Up to six college teams work on their proposals addressing the challenge and then present them in an open session at the Congress. Every year, our audience are full of praise for the innovation, confidence and ideas that the Gen Z students bring together. Speak to any alumni from previous years, and they all say that their experience of competing and attending the World Retail Congress was personally and professionally transformational.  

Women in Retail 

The Women in Retail programme at World Retail Congress brings together top female retail executives to celebrate and champion the achievements of women in the industry, whilst facilitating mentoring and discussion. 

For the last nine years, the programme has consisted of the International Women in Retail networking reception, combining a wonderful venue such as the Burj al Arab in Dubai or the Dior flagship store in Paris with inspirational speakers. The evening is also highlighted by the presentation of the Woman of the Year Award.  

This award is presented to a remarkable woman within the industry who is leading from the front, supporting and championing other women in the industry and celebrates an inspirational career. Providing an exclusive, intimate and women-centered space at the heart of the World Retail Congress agenda, our Women in Retail reception is the ideal space to unwind and relax in the company of influential women making a difference in the industry.   

It is our goal for Congresses in the future to achieve gender parity on stage and off. We want more women within the industry to have a seat at the table, have their voices heard and be visible leaders. To achieve this, the Congress is dedicated to create spaces to provide support through networks, mentors and learning. 

Sign-up only. Spaces limited. Tuesday 13th May – 6:30pm. 

All sessions are scanned by World Retail Congress to evaluate their popularity and improve the content of our future events. All data is stored securely in compliance with the new GDPR regulations. 

If the session you attend is sponsored, your details may also be used by that sponsor, so they can contact you via email to share information about their products and services. If you would prefer that your data is not used by a World Retail Congress sponsor, please visit our customer care centre and talk to our team who will ensure that you are opted out.   

Please note that if your badge is scanned by a sponsor elsewhere across the event, they will separately hold your details on their database and may contact you in the future. If you wish for this not to occur, you may ask them not to scan your badge.

In order to promote you as a speaker for World Retail Congress, we encourage you to submit your photograph and biography as soon as possible. We also strongly recommend that you promote your presence at World Retail Congress on your website, via email and across your social media channels using #WRC2025

If you would like any personalised banners, social cards or would like to discuss other ways to promote your presence further, please contact Niamh Stone. 

You can create your own social card with the wording and picture of your choice on this link

All attendees, including speakers, must register their details for their onsite pass ahead of the event.

Please follow the instructions below to register your attendance. 

• Register here 

• Fill in the Event Attendance on the basket

• Create your account/validate email 

• Fill out the Speaker details, accept T&Cs, click continue 

• Fill out the details, click next 

• On the summary page, click complete 

If you have any issues with the registration, please contact Natalie Wilkins

Rehearsals are not mandatory and are available for presentations only. If you would like to book a 15 minute time slot for a rehearsal please email  Natalie Wilkins 

Please note that your rehearsal is not confirmed until you receive a confirmation email. 

Submit your Presentation

If you are supporting your speaking slot with a presentation then please upload your PPT presentation by Monday 5th May to the dropbox WRC folder WRC presentations..

If you have any issues uploading your presentation, please contact Natalie Wilkins

·       Upload your original PowerPoint file (not a pdf) in a 16:9 ratio

·       If you update your presentation, please just upload again and apply a version number to the end of file name i.e. ‘v2’

·       Please remember to bring a copy of your final presentation to WRC and ensure you can easily access a back-up.

It is important to name your presentation correctly so that we can allocate it to yourself. The naming convention is your ‘first name surname_Organisation’ for example ‘Natalie_Wilkins_WorldReatil’.

*Please note Panels do not need to provide any presentations

After this date you must bring your presentation to the venue on a USB stick at least 2 hours before your session. 

If you are unsure if you have a presentation speaking slot, please contact Natalie Wilkins

Presentation Requirements

The presentation requirements below must be adhered to. Kindly note that you will need to make changes to your presentation if the requirements are not adhered to. Our AV team is not able to make any amendments to your presentation.

• The presentation ratio must be 16:9 widescreen
• Video format MP4 H264 Codec
• Font size – we recommend you use a font big enough so the text can be read by everyone

Videos

Videos must be embedded in PowerPoint on automatic start. We also require the original video in the format mentioned above, as backup.

Please do not include any links to videos that rely on internet access (i.e. Youtube) as these may not work during your presentation.

Live Demos

If you are planning on having a live demonstration as part of your session that relies on internet access, we are unable to guarantee a sufficient connection onsite so please let Natalie Wilkins know as soon as possible to avoid any disappointment. 

Amendments

If any amendments are made to your presentation before 5pm on Monday 12th May please email the updated version to Natalie Wilkins

If any amendments are made to your presentation after 5pm on Monday 12th May please bring a copy of the updated version to the venue on a USB stick at least 2 hours before your session so that we can upload it onto the system. After this time we will not be able to upload a new version of your presentation and the one that we have on file will be used.

Key Points to Remember

• Images and graphics can maximize the impact of your presentation
• Try to keep to 10 slides for a 20-minute presentation
• Slides should be visual rather than text-heavy
• If you are using Prezzi or Keynote, please let us know as soon as possible
• If you are using your own Macbook or iPad you will need to provide individual adaptors for the HDMI connector
• If you are using your own computer you will need to use this from the lectern so please let us know as soon as possible

Please note the presentation terms and conditions

• If you are using a presentation deck you must send this within 2 weeks of the event for review – World Retail Congress reserves the right to cancel the speaking session if the presentation is not provided in this time
• We reserve the right to film your session and use the content across World Retail Congress platforms
• By appearing on stage you grant World Retail Congress all applicable rights to use the footage as World Retail Congress chooses to promote the event
• We reserve the right to share any slide deck after the event with attendees of the event
• All content used in your session must adhere to all copyright rules