When Selfridges first opened its doors in 1909, it drew crowds by turning shopping into an adventure, using theatre and innovation. Bleriot’s monoplane was displayed there fresh from its maiden Channel crossing and John Logie Baird chose the store to first demonstrate television to the public.

As retailing and technology continues to evolve at a pace we’ve never experienced before, consumers of every generation are becoming far more comfortable with the digital landscape, whilst also becoming increasingly mindful of the brands they’re advocating.

This virtual event brings together experts from UK local authorities that discuss what they are doing to drive a compelling and realistic vision to guide the future of their town and how they are turning this vision into reality.

The Covid-19 pandemic means that many citizens are contacting their local authority online for the very first time. Unable to communicate with officials face-to-face, they expect seamless and effective service through digital channels instead.

Retailers need to stop expecting business to return to “normal”. 

The use of data analytics and automation can improve the experience of users and deliver savings compared to the more traditional service-desk SLA approach.

Today’s consumers are experiencing a renewed appreciation of the value of retail, as well as the importance that shopping brings to their quality of life.

The Economic impact of digital inclusion in the UK report has found every £1 invested in building essential digital skills contributes £9.48 to the UK economy.

As political leaders and civil servants react to an ever-increasing array of challenges, we consider how to make time for placemaking and digital projects.

How can levelling-up be truly achieved when there’s still a large gap between those who are digitally included and those in our communities who are not?