Autumn Fair 2026 reveals its first speakers
The Autumn Fair 2026 speaker programme is taking shape, and the first three names we’re revealing are worth talking about.
Introducing our Counter Talks Stage, where leading voices in retail unpack the trends and challenges defining the industry right now. Through a series of daily talks and workshops, visitors can expect practical insights spanning merchandising, technology, consumer behaviour and store operations. Sessions are free to attend as part of your Autumn Fair ticket.
Meet our first three speakers
Alison Battisby, Founder, Avocado Social
Alison has spent over 15 years helping businesses get social media working for them commercially. Her clients span major household names including John Lewis, Tesco, Etsy and Estee Lauder, as well as SMEs and startups looking to scale. This September, she's bringing that expertise directly to independent retailers, focusing on how to turn a social media presence into a genuine driver of footfall and sales at a time when organic reach is harder to come by and every marketing pound needs to work harder.
John Abbate, Economic Growth Lead for High Streets, Westminster City Council and Online Visual Merchandising Tutor, SDEA
John has spent more than 20 years shaping some of the world's most iconic retail spaces, working with Ralph Lauren, Levi's and Alfred Dunhill across the US and Europe. His focus now is firmly on the UK high street, helping independent retailers create in-store experiences that strengthen the visual, physical and emotional connection between a brand and its customers. At a time when footfall is hard-won, the way a store looks and feels has never mattered more.
Superintendent Lisa Maslen, Lead, National Business Crime Centre, City of London Police
Retail crime in the UK is at unprecedented levels, and it's becoming increasingly organised. Lisa has spent over 20 years in policing, previously serving as the Metropolitan Police Business Crime Lead before taking on her current national role at the City of London Police. She works directly with retailers and police forces across the UK to tackle it head on. Her session will give retailers practical, actionable strategies to protect their stores, their staff and their margins going into the busiest trading period of the year.
This is just the first wave. More speakers and full session details will be announced in the coming weeks. Autumn Fair takes place 6-9 September 2026 at the NEC Birmingham, and is free to attend for trade buyers.
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