Business | Talking Point
Vice president of SDEA
Why is an association like this important for the industry? I firmly believe associations like SDEA are essential to the future of retail and design. SDEA provides a central hub for creatives, suppliers, and retailers. It promotes innovation, best practice, and knowledge sharing – while supporting the industry’s growth and resilience.
What are your thoughts on the status quo of the retail and display industry? The retail and display industry is undergoing a period of significant transformation, driven by fast-changing consumer behaviours and evolving market expectations. Businesses are navigating a complex landscape shaped by rising cost pressures, fluctuating consumer spending, and increasing demand for sustainable solutions. Key considerations shaping the future include the shift toward circularity, the use of sustainable materials, and the growing importance of recycling incentives. At the same time, the in-store experience is being reimagined – with modular fixturisation, experiential shopping, interactive displays, and seamless customer journeys becoming essential components of modern retail strategies.
How does your other role as a design specification consultant at Antalis link to your new position at SDEA? In my role at Antalis, I help brands, agencies, and retailers specify sustainable, innovative materials for display and visual merchandising. SDEA helps me stay close to industry trends and connect with retail decision-makers. It also helps
inform our product development and ensures Antalis continues to offer materials that support evolving customer needs, sustainability goals, and a return on investment.
What skills and advice have you picked up over time that have stuck with you? My biggest takeaway from two decades in retail? That learning never stops. The retail industry never stands still. There’s always
a new season, trend, innovation or behaviour to understand. You can’t achieve it alone – collaboration is key.
What is it you enjoy most about working in the retail and design side of the industry? Without a doubt the people within the creative community – who mainly work tirelessly behind the scenes, with absolute passion and drive to push boundaries, make or break trends, influence the high street and consumer decisions.
SDEA PROVIDES A CENTRAL HUB FOR CREATIVES, SUPPLIERS, AND RETAILERS. IT PROMOTES INNOVATION, BEST PRACTICE, AND KNOWLEDGE SHARING – WHILE SUPPORTING THE INDUSTRY’S GROWTH AND RESILIENCE
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