The Retail Symposium by RegioPlan Consulting GmbH entered its 27th round under the motto “…reloading retail!”. Retail and retail real estate need to evolve in order to remain competitive in the digital and sustainable world. Right at the start, Romina Jenei, CEO of Regioplan Consulting, emphasized the need for retail to combine innovation and sustainability in particular.
Some highlights from the 27th Retail Symposium
BLOCK 1: Innovate – The Paradox of Modern Retail
The symposium began with a conversation between Amela Salihovic (RegioData Research) and Martina Wasserbauer (RegioPlan Consulting) on “The Retail Paradox,” highlighting the growing polarization between luxury and discount segments, and the increasing influence of e-commerce. A key challenge discussed was Austria’s lag in achieving ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) goals.
Retail Real Estate: Navigating Change
Sandra Ludwig (JLL) emphasized how tariffs, inflation, and rental uncertainties affect retail expansion. Prime locations are becoming increasingly important, offering experiences and sustainable value.
Sustainability in Retail – THINK. NEW. SUSTAINABILITY
Christoph Andexlinger (SES) presented SES’s initiatives, including energy-efficient infrastructure and a health park in Innsbruck as examples of merging retail with sustainability and innovation.
AI in Retail – Automation and Hyper-Personalization
A panel discussion moderated by Ronald Goigitzer (IVALU) explored the potential of AI in process automation and personalization. Concerns were raised about the competitive pressure AI could place on small retailers.
The Future of Retail Real Estate
Experts like Peter Engert (ÖGNI) and Monika Hohenecker discussed the importance of preserving existing buildings and integrating sustainable solutions to keep retail properties viable.
Market Data & Insights
Amela Salihovic revealed that while purchasing power in Austria has outpaced inflation, the retail sector continues to face digital transformation challenges.
Crisis-Resistant or Under Pressure?
Katharina Kohlmaier (CIS ImmoZert) analyzed structural shifts in Austrian retail, noting the decline in fashion and furniture sectors and the rising demand for leisure and service spaces.
Lifestyle Shopping Centers
An expert panel discussed the global trend of transforming malls into lifestyle hubs, offering experiences, entertainment, and gastronomy, citing Westfield and Hudson Yards as examples.
Tesla & E-Mobility in Retail
Matthias Kraler (Tesla Austria) proposed integrating EV charging infrastructure into retail parking as a way to attract customers and boost foot traffic.
Green Talk – Sustainability vs. Profitability
Industry experts argued that sustainable investments are profitable long-term, provided they are implemented strategically.
Consumer Behavior in Transition
Monika Koller (WU Vienna) explored shifting consumer values, emphasizing the growing importance of brand perception and emotional engagement over price.
BLOCK 2: Transform – Urban Trends and Experience-Driven Retail
Urban Mindset – Redefining City Retail: Romina Jenei, Birgit Rauer-Seifert, and Johannes Trauntschnig discussed the rising popularity of upcycling and regional products in city centers, driven by consumer demand for authenticity and sustainability.
Mozart, Mojito, and Value Creation: Thomas Hahn (CEO, STEFFL) illustrated how STEFFL redefined premium retail through service, atmosphere, and curated luxury, welcoming 10,000 guests daily across seven floors.
Leisure Instead of Fashion: Herman Kok (DISCvision) presented global success stories of shopping centers evolving into leisure and cultural hubs, highlighting rooftop gardens and mixed-use developments like PAKT Roof in Antwerp.
Rebirth of City Retail: Alexander Kleinszig (Rebirth of City) introduced high-tech logistics solutions by KNAPP that enable small retailers to compete in e-commerce by offering rapid fulfillment and inventory sharing.
Takeaway
Eva Pölzl and Romina Jenei concluded that change in retail is both essential and inevitable. Sustainability, AI, and immersive experiences are not trends—they are the future.
Also in focus: networking and discussion away from the podiums. And after the symposium is before the symposium: the 28th Retail Symposium will take place in 2026.
