We’re thrilled to be sponsoring Retail Destination Live once again this year and are looking forward to an inspiring event on Wednesday, 5th March. This annual gathering is a vital platform for sharing ideas, driving innovation, and shaping the future of retail destinations.
This year, we’re especially excited as Ben Hammond, our Growth and Performance Manager, will be speaking on a panel discussion titled: “Innovative Partnerships: Securing the Future of Our High Streets.”
Tackling the Issue of Vacant Spaces
Vacant retail spaces are an increasing concern across shopping centres, high streets, and mixed-use destinations. While pop-ups and market stalls offer small businesses an initial foothold, many entrepreneurs struggle to bridge the gap between starting up and scaling up. Traditional support models often leave them to navigate these challenges alone.
However, a forward-thinking industry collaboration is proving that more can be done. We have teamed up with representatives from Flourish, Save The High Street, and VFour to join forces to demonstrate how partnerships can create real opportunities for start-ups—helping them grow and thrive at no cost to the brand.
What to Expect from the Panel
This session will explore:
– The biggest challenges start-ups face when looking to establish a high street presence.
– How partnerships can provide non-financial yet impactful support.
– What industry leaders can do to help drive success and revitalise our retail spaces.
By working together, we can redefine the future of the high street and create thriving retail destinations. We’re looking forward to the discussion and can’t wait to see you at Retail Destination Live 2025!
Speakers Profiles
Romiluyi ‘Romy Romes’ Benjamin Abiodun | Founder – Vfour London
Romy founded Vfour London, a streetwear brand celebrating art and culture, in 2017. He is a passionate and driven entrepreneur, regularly running pop-up shops and activations, in tandem with growing the brand online.
Paul Clifford | Director – Flourish
Founder and Director of Flourish, Paul has over 20 years retail and property management experience and has worked with some of the UK’s largest retailers, in addition to managing shopping centres. Flourish are a leading commercialisation provider, who intelligently fill spaces to create thriving, sustainable places.
Alex Schlagman | Founding Partner – Save The High Street
Alex is CEO of PocketHighStreet and a founding partner of SaveTheHighStreet.org. SaveTheHighStreet.org is a coordinated industry-wide initiative supporting and empowering local businesses nationwide. The movement is powered by 1000s of shopkeepers, industry leaders and high street supporters. Alex is a serial entrepreneur focused on levelling the playing field for local retailers with technology. Alex previously founded a digital agency for small businesses and a local commerce marketplace for student communities.
Ben Hammond | Growth & Performance Manager – Toolbox Marketing
Ben has over 10 years marketing experience, with 6 years in the retail real estate space. Toolbox Marketing have been established for over 24 years, and are a leading agency that use strategic marketing and vibrant placemaking to shape tomorrow’s places.
To find out more about Retail Destination Live check out the full agenda here.