As global retail faces a period of recalibration, the Australian market is not immune to the effects of shifting trade dynamics, evolving ESG regulations and expectations, digital disruption 2.0 and the evolving political landscape.

In this keynote Ryan Swenson will explore the current and emerging trends shaping the retail sector—from tariff pressures and supply chain reshuffles to accelerating consumer demand for sustainability and ethical sourcing. Gain critical insights into how Australian retailers are responding to these challenges and opportunities with innovation, agility, and strategic foresight. This session is essential for anyone looking to stay ahead in a volatile sourcing and retail environment

Join Olivia for an inspiring exploration of how ecommerce businesses can transform their platforms into engines for positive social impact. Drawing on real-world examples, Olivia will share actionable strategies for embedding purpose into every stage of the ecommerce process, from sustainable sourcing to meaningful giving programs. This session will reveal how connecting profit with purpose not only fosters community and customer loyalty but also creates lasting impact for underserved communities worldwide. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to scale with intention, this session will leave you inspired to align your online business with a greater purpose.

A deep dive into the biggest fashion trends to emerge from the Fall 2025 runway show season in New York, London, Milan and Paris, aka fashion month, with one of Australia’s most influential fashion buyers: Bridget Veals, Executive General Manager Womenswear, Footwear and Accessories at leading Australian department store David Jones.

We will unpack the season’s biggest news and look at both the macro and micro trends that dominated the runways in the ‘Big Four’ fashion cities, which will inevitably be omnipresent across the fashion retail landscape over the coming 12 months, both at the top designer end, as well as trickling down to the mass market. One case in point, the apparently unstoppable denim boom.

While it is imperative that fashion companies adopt sustainable marketing and production practices, they must also communicate their actions to their existing and potential consumers. Designed for all business owners and creators with an interest in sustainable development communications strategy, this session will address the unique challenges of such activities in the fashion industry. Case studies on the best communication approaches surrounding sustainable and eco-responsible products will be presented, and the meaning of certifications will be discussed. Participants will leave the session equipped with an increased understanding of effective approaches to communicate and publicize their present and future sustainable practices in order to both inform and attract consumers.

We aim to equip marketing professionals with the skills to integrate artificial intelligence into their content strategies. Key areas to be covered include:

• AI in Marketing: Understanding AI's role in modern marketing
• AI Tools: Exploring AI-driven content creation tools
• Personalisation: Leveraging AI for personalised content
• Data Analysis: Utilising AI for consumer data insights
• Ethical Considerations: Discussing responsible AI use in marketing

The B Corp movement continues to grow at pace, with over 9500 businesses world-wide now certified and committed to the principles of business acting as a force for good. When it comes to the fashion industry hundreds of ecosystem players have joined the movement, from fashion brands to manufacturers to textile innovation start-ups. This panel will explore what B Corp is, why the movement is growing, the value it creates for the businesses that certify and for their many stakeholders, what it takes to actually get certified, and where the standards are heading over the coming years.

Forget playing it safe—if you want to stand out, it’s time to rethink how suppliers and retailers work together. This session dives into the art of collaboration, showing how bold, creative marketing partnerships can amplify reach, boost credibility, and set your brand apart in an overcrowded market. Therese will share her no-nonsense strategies to help you create partnerships that actually deliver. Learning Outcomes:
• Create Bold Campaigns: Learn how to design collaborations that grab attention, drive sales, and leave competitors scrambling to keep up.
• Leverage Each Other’s Strengths: Discover how to build trust and amplify your credibility by aligning your goals and assets.
• Differentiate with Impact: Get actionable tactics to break out of the ordinary and ensure your brand leads, not follows.

Drawing from extensive factory visits and research across Asia, this session explores critical shifts in global sourcing and manufacturing. Discover how trade tensions, sustainability demands, and technological advances are reshaping production networks. Gain practical insights into navigating this evolving landscape and positioning your supply chain for future success

As retail competition intensifies, it’s not enough to simply keep up with trends. Brands must make bold, strategic moves that set them apart. Anaita will share actionable brand-building strategies and impactful tactics to help brands rise above their competition. She’ll cover key areas, including key takeaways:

• Strategies for Differentiation – Defining and communicating unique brand values
• Sustainability as a Competitive Advantage – Attracting customers while reducing costs
• Innovative Branding Tactics – Building an unforgettable brand identity that converts customers into advocates
• Scaling with Purpose – Growing without sacrificing integrity and staying true to core values.

How can discarded textiles become a valuable resource? In this fireside chat, Nehal Jain and Yesha Patel, founders of After, take the hot seat to explore the future of circularity in textiles. Guided by an expert moderator, they’ll discuss innovative approaches to textile recovery, upcycling, and sourcing reclaimed materials, while sharing real-world examples of how creative partnerships are driving business growth.

Expect a thought-provoking conversation filled with actionable insights on integrating recovered textiles into supply chains and unlocking new opportunities in the industry.

Robert Lockyer is the founder and Chief Client Officer at UK-based Delta Global, a leading sustainable luxury packaging solutions company that is changing the way businesses and consumers interact with premium retail products, which has worked with clients including Net-A-Porter, Zimmermann, Russell & Bromley, Lane Crawford and Tom Ford. In this session we will look at sustainability in packaging and the challenges and opportunities for Australian brands; circularity and how to rethink source and waste management; connecting the dots on packaging and consumer loyalty; the role of technology, notably AI, in supply chain management through the company’s Delta Global Intelligence division; and Delta Global's bespoke innovation services, products and materials.