Talking Shop Seminar Theatre

LEARN FROM THE EXPERTS


 

Our seminar theatre's 2025 programme is packed with hot topics, fascinating discussions, and inspirational speakers. Getting an expert's opinion is not something you will want to miss!

No need to book in advance -- seats for each session are available on a first-come, first-serve basis so be sure to grab your spots early!

Seminar Timetable

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11:30
  1. 60 mins
    This “back to basics” workshop will share 10 top tips for delivering more impact through your business social media.  Based on some of the principles from his Amazon best selling book “Embrace the Space”, Gary Ennis, Business Gateway Trainer, will remind you of what it takes to be successful through the likes of Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, explaining how to fight back against algorithms, create engaging content, harness the power of reviews and much more.
13:30
  1. 60 mins
    Even before the budget piled more pressure on the struggling industry, retailers have been facing a threat from perhaps their toughest challenge: Shopper Mark Two. This insightful session discusses the factors which led to the evolution of today's shopper, why they are more demanding than ever and suggests  ways that retailers can attract and retain new customers.
14:30
  1. 60 mins
    In this session, Show Director Mark Saunders will ask industry experts from both the retail and consumer angle what the term 'Made in Scotland' means and how it is perceived. 
15:30
  1. 60 mins
    This practical workshop will examine how Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) can help fast track the creation of digital marketing content for your business, while understanding the risks and limitations. From presentations and podcasts, to social media updates and blog posts, Gary will demonstrate some of the latest AI tools available, helping develop and grow your business through effective engaging content.
17:00
  1. 30 mins

    Announcement of 2025 winners and trophy presentation by Sarah Ward, Chief Executive – The Giftware Association

10:00
  1. 45 mins
    Sue Marks, Editor of Progressive Gifts & Home, will be speaking to a panel of gift retail experts to discover what consumers will be looking for in 2025, which products are currently trending, as well as looking at the current retail trends in Scotland.
11:00
  1. 40 mins

    In this keynote interview Progressive Gifts Editor Sue Marks will explore the secret behind Loch Leven's Larder, a highly successful farm shop, café and tourist destination in Kinross.

12:00
  1. 60 mins
    Hear from two Tourism Chiefs, Marc Crothall MBE, CEO of the Scottish Tourism Alliance, and Vicki Miller the newly appointed CEO of VisitScotland, about the outlook for tourism in Scotland.

    In 2025 who are our future customers most likely to be?  What will they expect and what they will want to see and do? Marc & Vicki will share their top tips on how a business can best prepare to make the most of the opportunity.
13:00
  1. 75 mins

    Launch Gallery exhibitors will pitch their products to our panel of expert retailers. The exhibitors will gain useful advice, ideas and feedback on their products from the Nessies and possibly an order or two.

    This is a great way to hear more about our Launch Gallery companies who are new to wholesale and new to the show.

14:30
  1. 60 mins
    Sustainable Growth Specialists, Think Partnership will stage a debate and Q&A on how Sustainability is shaping the future of Supply Chains. Larger organisations are now required to provide transparency of the carbon emissions in their own supply chains which is having a direct effect on suppliers of all sizes across all sectors.  Legislation and tenders are increasingly requesting evidence of carbon management with along with credible plans to reduce emissions. The panel discussion will cover the barriers and opportunities that businesses are faced with, but more importantly the numerous opportunities that early adopters are able to leverage when embracing Net Zero.  
15:30
  1. 60 mins
    The retail industry in the UK is experiencing a significant transformation, driven by the rapid advancement of generative artificial intelligence (AI). This technology is reshaping how businesses operate and how consumers interact with brands, offering unprecedented opportunities for enhancing customer experiences, optimising operations, and driving innovation. Louise Welsby will explore the impact of AI on retail, focusing on its role in personalising shopping experiences, improving inventory and supply chain management, enhancing customer service, and addressing ethical considerations.
11:00
  1. 60 mins
    The Knowledge Bank commissioned a large-scale research project on Provenance in Spring 2024. In this session, Anne-Laure Farrar will guide you through the cutting-edge research techniques used to reach the quantifiable opportunities across the out-of-home sector. Joining her on-stage will be some industry experts who were actively involved in the research process to explain how it has impacted their approach to provenance, back in their day-jobs.
12:00
  1. 60 mins
    Discover how Canva can improve your social media marketing and make promoting your business easier and more effective. This workshop offers practical demonstrations to help you streamline your content creation, maximise your time, and produce high-quality, engaging social media posts and ads. Jay will introduce you to Canva's suite of pro tools, including AI-powered 'Magic' features, that will boost your creativity and support your business growth with impressive social media marketing, with no design skills needed.
13:00
  1. 75 mins

    Launch Gallery exhibitors will pitch their products to our panel of expert retailers. The exhibitors will gain useful advice, ideas and feedback on their products from the Nessies and possibly an order or two.

    This is a great way to hear more about our Launch Gallery companies who are new to wholesale and new to the show.