MAPIC has launched a new concept - the Retail Village, a space which will have a prominent place within the event - which will make its debut at the next edition, to be held from 29 November to 1 December at the Palais des Festivals in Cannes. This space aims to attract the most innovative brands in the retail sector, as well as showcasing the world the latest, cutting-edge and dynamic initiatives in the sector.
MAPIC, together with its partners, has selected a panoply of retail concepts that share common values of sustainability, inclusivity, diversity and local roots.
Event Director Francesco Pupillo stresses that "historically, MAPIC brings together retailers and real estate agents seeking to promote or negotiate purchases and leases, regardless of the channel used, but with a customer-centric approach. The Retail Village will host a selection of innovative brands chosen for the originality of their ideas and concepts".
New consumers, such as the new generations (Millennials and Generation Z), make concrete and specific decisions in terms of their consumption habits. It is crucial for estate agents to incorporate small specialist brands into their commercial mix, particularly brands that are seen by consumers as "more authentic" and with "more ethical values".
For Fay Cannings, founder of Seekd, one of the exhibitors at MAPIC's Retail Village, "as times change, consumers' sustainable choices are more pertinent to creating desirable destinations, Seekd offers a range of stylish and exciting, planet-friendly designers and brands to shop all under one roof. The Retail Village at MAPIC is the perfect platform for us, fuelling our growth to find partners and investors who share our mission: we want to be seen in the best places, both in the UK, Europe and internationally. The small brands of today can become the names of the future."