Howard Kennedy LLP | View firm profile
Retail is at a pivotal moment, where global trends, transformative technologies, and evolving consumer demands are reshaping the industry at an unprecedented pace.
In this context, Howard Kennedy has launched a new retail report, The Edge of Retail 2025, which explores the trends, opportunities, and challenges presented by a dynamic macroeconomic environment. From the UK to global markets, retailers are moving beyond recovery, actively reimagining customer engagement, business operations, and competitive strategies in a rapidly evolving landscape.
Our latest insights build on Innovative Resilience, last year’s report from Howard Kennedy and selected contributors, reflecting on the retail sector’s ability to navigate a challenging post-COVID world. While resilience defined 2024, this year’s report focuses on growth, innovation, and transformation.
EDGE
This year’s report is structured around four interconnected themes that encapsulate the opportunities and challenges for the retail sector: Evolve, Disrupt, Grow, and Expand.
Evolve
Reflect on the economic and strategic trends shaping retail businesses today. Discover how innovative business strategies and advanced technologies help companies navigate challenges and embrace opportunities to thrive in this fast-moving sector.
Disrupt
Focus on the technology, data, and innovations driving retail into the future. AI, automation, and digital-first solutions are now essential for competitive advantage. See how these disruptive forces are revolutionizing consumer experiences and retail operations.
Grow
Delve into the human element of retail. People—customers and teams—are at the heart of retail’s success. Aligning purpose with profitability helps businesses build deeper connections with stakeholders.
Expand
Examine the physical and spatial evolution of retail. Focusing on real estate, urban regeneration, and the future of the physical store, explore how businesses can stay relevant while adapting to a rapidly digitalizing world.
This year, we celebrate not only the resilience that has defined retail but also the creativity, ambition, and adaptability that promise a thriving future. We hope the insights and outlook within will inspire retail businesses to push boundaries, embrace innovation, and deliver meaningful experiences to their customers.
Sign up for the report now.
Howard Kennedy campaign: On the Edge: Redefining Retail in 2025