Beyond the buzz: Europe's most senior retail leaders tackle AI's next chapter at Shoptalk Europe 2026
LONDON, April 21, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The retail industry has heard enough about what AI could do. At Shoptalk Europe 2026, the conversation shifts to what it is actually doing.
Artificial intelligence, customer connection, and the future of physical retail will dominate the agenda, with a focus on real-world application over theory.
The CEOs of Vestiaire Collective, Arc'teryx, Christian Louboutin, and Zalando, alongside top executives from Sephora and The Estée Lauder Companies are among more than 180 senior leaders confirmed to speak at Shoptalk Europe 2026, taking place at Fira Gran Via, Barcelona, 9-11 June.
The event will bring together more than 4,500 retail professionals - one in three at C-suite level - spanning retailers, brands, technology providers, investors, and startups from over 62 countries.
For brands and businesses navigating an increasingly fragmented consumer landscape, it represents a rare opportunity to connect with decision-makers across commerce, technology, and brand strategy, all in one place.
Last year, more than 25,000 co-matched business meetings were facilitated through its 'Meetup' programme, cementing Shoptalk Europe's reputation as the continent's most efficient retail networking event. Attendees can expect the same density of high-value connection in just three days.
Zia Daniell Wigder, Global President, Shoptalk, said: “Senior leaders from across Europe are grappling with the same challenges - from AI deployment to shifting consumer behaviour - but they rarely get the chance to compare notes with a true peer running the same business in a different market. That's what we've built here at Shoptalk Europe - a space to exchange ideas, navigate disruption, and shape what comes next together.”
Keynote speakers include:
Highlight sessions include:
They are joined by a stellar wider line-up including the CEO of All Saints, the Global President of Vuori, the CTO of Wayfair, and the Chief Commercial Officer of COS. Recently registered attendees also include executives from DECIEM, The Douglas Group, Marks & Spencer, Decathlon, Carrefour, JD Sports, and Selfridges.
Shoptalk Europe also brings together the very edge of innovation - from early-stage startups pitching what's next, to VC-backed companies showcasing the solutions transforming retail today.
Event details and registration
Shoptalk Europe 2026 takes place 9–11 June at Fira Gran Via, Barcelona. View the full agenda and register: shoptalkeurope.com/agenda
About Shoptalk Europe
A Hyve Group event, Shoptalk Europe is the leading event for the European retail ecosystem, bringing together retailers, brands, technology providers, investors, and startups to shape the future of commerce. The event brings together 4,500+ power players and 1 in 3 being C-suite representing 62 countries and is recognised for its Meetup programme, its high-calibre content agenda and its ability to forge connections that last well beyond the three days of the event. For more information visit: shoptalkeurope.com.
Note to Editor: If you, or a member of your editorial team, would like to attend Shoptalk Europe 2026, please register for a media pass here.
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