The 2024 China International Retail Innovation Convention was held from Nov 19 to 21 at the Shanghai International Convention Center in the Pudong New Area in East China's Shanghai.

Organized by the China Chain-Store & Franchise Association, or CCFA and supported by the Shanghai Municipal Commission of Commerce and the Pudong New Area government, the event brought together retail experts from over 20 countries and regions, including the United States, Canada and Germany.

At the convention, experts shared insights into future trends in the retail industry, highlighting innovations and best practices. 

In recent years, Shanghai has made significant progress toward its goal of becoming a global consumer hub, with support from national agencies such as the Ministry of Commerce. 

In 2023, Shanghai's retail sales hit 1.85 trillion yuan (about $255 billion), marking a 12.6 percent year-on-year increase. Online retail sales also grew by 10.8 percent, totaling 1.7 trillion yuan.

Industry leaders at the event shared their insights on global retail transformations and sustainability. Among them were Mark Batenic from IGA, a key supporter of independent supermarkets, and Tobias Wasmuht from SPAR International, a multinational helping independently owned food stores.

Daniel Hodges, chief executive officer of Retail Store Tours in New York, emphasized the role of technology in enhancing customer experience and personalization.

The convention also featured an innovation exhibition, showcasing the latest in retail technology — from smart devices to digital marketing tools — offering attendees a glimpse into the future of the industry.

Source: Official WeChat account of Shanghai Municipal Commission of Commerce at "scofcom"