European retail faces rapid shifts driven by AI adoption, changing in-store dynamics and new media monetization models. Against that backdrop Forum Retail 2026 takes place from 11 to 12 November 2026 in Milan and concentrates practical cases and technology showcases relevant to buyers and providers.
Dates and venue for Forum Retail 2026
Forum Retail 2026 runs on 11 and 12 November 2026 at MiCo Milano Congressi. The program combines thematic days with an exhibition area where tech vendors and service providers present solutions for both store and digital commerce.
Agenda highlights at Forum Retail 2026
The agenda features dedicated tracks such as AI Application, Innovation & IT and a Retail Tech Space with hands-on demos of software and devices. Vertical streams cover Fashion, Beauty & Retail Pharma and Grocery while learning paths include Competence Class, CEO Hub and CXO Hub.
Formats range from focused technical sessions to more informal Sunset Talk and Arena Talk discussions. Retail Media Execution emerges as a cross-cutting topic with sessions that connect strategy and revenue models.
Attendee and exhibitor profile
Published figures for the edition clarify the event profile. Forum Retail 2026 lists 998 retailers, 285 speakers and 142 tech providers. The program includes 38 case studies and 19 international contributions, useful metrics for planning commercial outreach.
Participating brands span grocery chains, fashion retailers and technology vendors. The speaker roster includes executives from companies such as Kiko Milano, MediaWorld and Netflix according to the event listings.
How to plan B2B prospecting at Forum Retail 2026
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Map targets by vertical and decision-making role to match sessions and expo areas. The verticalized program helps locate relevant buyers.
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Focus on business cases with measurable impact. Prepare short proofs of value that address AI-driven ROI, Retail Media or in-store analytics.
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Book demos and meetings in advance. Use the Retail Tech Space and Competence Class slots to demonstrate solutions live.
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Prepare follow-up material tailored to the contact. One-page summaries with KPIs accelerate post-event qualification.
Technology trends signposted for 2026
This edition emphasizes AI applications with a focus on measurable outcomes and the comparison of large language models versus smaller specialized models. Other topics include Quantum Computing, cybersecurity and European technology sovereignty, all placed in the context of retail operations.
Final note and official link
If your objective is to move conversations into pilots or proofs of concept, come with measurable cases and scheduled meetings. Book passes and check the full agenda at https://ikn.it/forum-retail/ for meetings and exhibitor details for Forum Retail 2026.
