The event was hosted by Chief Executive Officer, Brad Williams and Vice President of Client Engagement, David Sheldon. RDC strives to be proactive in helping define what the future of retail unfolds. Every year we hold a symposium, inviting thought leaders from around the nation to discuss, deliberate and engage in proactive solutions for our commercial environments.

Panelists included Dr. Chris Luebkeman, director for global foresight + research + innovation, ARUP; Katherine Perez-Estolano, associate principal, Cities Leader, ARUP; Andrew Turf, senior vice president of High Street Retail Services, CBRE; David Tovey, director of architecture & design, Walmart and Aaron Richter, senior vice president of design, Equinox.

Check out the highlight reel below: RDC Future of Retail Symposium

Leading industry executives discussed the future of retail and key trends surrounding the evolution of the current retail landscape including automation, evolution, disruption and the importance of the human experience.

Retail Trend Takeaways:

1. (Nearly) everything will be automated: As new technologies emerge like artificial intelligence (A.I.) and machine learning, the consumer delivery method and experience will evolve. The service industry is now disrupted and consumers will be able to get what they want, when they want it more easily.
2. Retail is not dead, it’s evolving: The most authentic, lasting brands are incorporating experience into all that they are doing. This includes the integration of the ability to shop, eat, and stay and workout all in one place. The best retail environments will create a true sense of arrival, destination and community.
3. The sharing economy: As a result of brands that are driving the sharing economy like Uber, Airbnb and more, this model will continue to dominate the retail infrastructure. Companies must now be hyper-focused on creating a frictionless, user-friendly and customer-convenient experience.
4. Malls are evolving and communities are reintegrating: A high percentage of America's malls are being reimagined. Landlords and tenants alike are seeing more clarity for the need to integrate into their surroundings, be contextual, and more thoughtful to the consumer needs. There are opportunities to include natural occurring affordable housing (NOAH) as well as an integration of public and civic facilities that create a social fabric for the community.
5. Retail is commoditized and retail is experiential: Consumers have incredible access to communized goods through omni channel retail. As a result, they are craving for experience and personalization. The best brands are redefining the mold. Savvy consumers are now “trend ascenders” and want an experience that’s not just what’s expected.

Check out the full presentation by one of our key note speakers Dr. Chris Luebkeman, Director for Global Foresight + Research + Innovation for ARUP

Video produced by John Coyne Visuals