Independents Day 2016 to focus on retail

Proven Track Record (PTR) has released details of its theme and keynote speaker for this year’s Independents Day (iDay) conference to be held on Monday 7 November. 

The theme for iDay 2016 is How to be a retail champion and the keynote speaker is independent retail guru Clare Rayner (pictured). 

The event will follow the National Eyecare Group Conference on Sunday 6 November, with both events being held at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole. An expanded iShow exhibition will run across the two days of both conferences.

PTR managing director, Nick Atkins, said: “Over the previous 10 years we regularly focused on developing the clinical aspects for business development, including charging appropriately for professional time. With the vast majority of independents relying on the bulk of their income being derived by retail product sales, we wanted to focus on being a successful optical retailer in this day and age.”

Ms Rayner is a business owner, retail expert, consumer champion, High Street campaigner and micro-business backer. 

Her expertise has led to her becoming a highly respected speaker and media commentator, sharing her knowledge on a wide range of retail and consumer topics. She is frequently invited to join ITV Good Morning Britain, as well as BBC, Sky and Channel 5 News. She has also taken part in several radio broadcasts to offer advice and ideas for retailers. 

A retail consultant, business coach and mentor, Ms Rayner has spoken at conferences and events around the world. Her topics span retail, changing consumer behaviors and the future of the High Street. She is actively involved in the Support for Independent Retail campaign and the Future High Street Summit. 

A best-selling author, Ms Rayner wrote The retail champion: 10 steps to retail success, in 2012. It was followed in 2013 by How to sell to retail: the secrets of getting your product to market. 

At iDay Ms Rayner will be supported by speakers from inside and outside of the optical profession.

For more information, visit the event website.