Retailers’ group marks 50 years with biggest-ever national conference, expo

MANILA, Philippines —  The Philippine Retailers Association (PRA), the national organization of retailers, shopping centers and industry suppliers, is staging the 32nd National Retail Conference and Expo (NRCE) on Aug. 6–7 at the SMX Convention Center Manila to celebrate its golden anniversary.

Marking PRA’s 50th year of championing the Philippine retail industry, this year’s conference carries the theme “New Next Forward,” reflecting the sector’s commitment to innovation, resilience and sustainable growth in an increasingly dynamic marketplace.

As the country’s premier retail gathering, the 32nd NRCE will convene business leaders, retailers, entrepreneurs, brand owners, shopping center executives, technology providers and industry experts for two days of thought leadership, collaboration and business opportunities. Participants will gain practical insights into emerging retail trends, digital transformation, artificial intelligence, supply chain innovation, customer experience and the evolving consumer landscape.

Opening the conference on Aug. 6 is V. P. Sharma, founder and group CEO of Indonesia’s leading lifestyle retailer, MAP Group. In his keynote session, “Retail Transformation: Lessons from Indonesia,” Sharma will share the strategies behind one of Southeast Asia’s most successful retail organizations and discuss how Philippine retailers can scale their businesses, strengthen customer relevance and compete in an increasingly regional marketplace.

On Aug. 7, Joseph Phi, group CEO of Li & Fung, will headline with a session on transforming supply chain vitality into a competitive advantage. His presentation will offer practical strategies tailored to retailers of different sizes. Large retail organizations will learn how to leverage data, artificial intelligence and digital capabilities to strengthen their global competitiveness, while growing local retailers will gain actionable approaches to improve inventory management, supplier collaboration, operational efficiency and profitability.

Complementing the conference is Retail Solutions Asia, the country’s leading retail solutions exhibition. The expo will feature the latest technologies, products, services, and business solutions from industry partners, providing attendees with opportunities to discover innovations, build strategic partnerships and access exclusive business deals.

With world-class speakers, forward-looking discussions, and unparalleled networking opportunities, the 32nd NRCE promises to be the Philippine retail industry’s most significant event of the year.

Registration is now open through www.nrce-ph.com, with special group registration discounts available.