The 2026 RLC Global Forum, taking place in Riyadh on 3-4 February 2026, has unveiled its thematic framework, “Growth Crossroads,” and announced strategic partnerships with two of Saudi Arabia’s leading retail giants, Cenomi Centers and Panda Retail Company.
The event, which will convene more than 2,000 global leaders, policymakers, and innovators from over 40 countries, aims to define the next chapter of growth for the retail, consumer, and lifestyle industries.
Riyadh as a global hub for transformation
The forum’s overarching vision, “Growth Crossroads,” is designed to capture the transformation reshaping global trade, consumption, and leadership, particularly as the world’s economic and cultural gravity shifts. The event will be anchored in Riyadh, which the organisers describe as “the ideal stage for this global dialogue” as it connects East and West, and tradition with innovation.
The forum will explore six defining themes:
- Growth in a Reordered World
- AI and the Power of Multipliers
- The Global South as Growth Engine
- Experience as Growth Infrastructure
- The Future Consumer Order
- Leadership Beyond Resilience
Panos Linardos, chairman of the RLC Global Forum, said: “From Riyadh, a new conversation begins. By anchoring our 2026 year-round growth agenda and aligning with visionary partners like Cenomi Centers and Panda Retail Company, we reflect a broader truth: the next decade of prosperity will be defined by collaboration between emerging and established markets.”
Strategic partnerships with Saudi retail leaders
The announcement of strategic partnerships with Cenomi Centers and Panda Retail Company highlights Saudi Arabia’s growing emergence as a driving force in the global growth narrative.
Alison Rehill-Erguven, chief executive officer at Cenomi Centers, commented: “We are proud to partner with RLC Global Forum, a platform that shares our commitment to shaping the future of retail in Saudi Arabia. Cenomi’s participation reflects our dedication to driving innovation, collaboration, and excellence across the sector – contributing to the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals and redefining the customer experience through world-class destinations.”
Dr. Bander Hamooh, chief executive officer of Panda Retail Company, stated: “At Panda Retail Company, we are proud of our strategic partnership with 2026 RLC Global Forum and look forward to sharing our vision for the future of retail in the Kingdom and the region. Together with industry leaders from around the world, we aim to shape a more sustainable future, one that is centered on exceptional customer experience, enhanced by digital transformation and intelligent governance, and supported by sustainable supply chains that create lasting value for both society and the economy.”
The RLC Global Forum is the next phase of the Retail Leaders Circle’s (RLC) twelve-year mission to connect decision-makers across the retail and consumer sectors.
