The New Rules of Retail in 2026: AI, Profitability & the Store's Comeback | World Retail Signals

World Retail Signals breaks down the retail shifts that matter most right now.

In this episode, Alex is joined by Ian McGarrigle, Chairman at World Retail Congress, and Niamh Stone, Programme Director at World Retail Congress, to explore the trends reshaping global retail — from AI-driven discovery and stronger store leadership to sustainability, profitability, and the return of physical retail.

They unpack why search is changing, why frontline teams matter more than ever, and why retailers are shifting from chasing scale to driving more value per customer.

A sharp weekly take on the signals shaping retail next.

Here’s an even tighter version if you want it more YouTube-native:

World Retail Signals is your weekly read on the biggest shifts in global retail.

Alex is joined by Ian McGarrigle, Chairman at World Retail Congress, and Niamh Stone, Programme Director at World Retail Congress, to unpack AI-driven discovery, store performance, sustainability, profitability, and the retail trends leaders need to watch now.

A fast, focused look at what’s shaping retail next.

💬 JOIN THE CONVERSATION Which trend discussed today do you think will impact the industry most? Let us know in the comments below!

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