© Carine Lemmer / RTL
The future of retail could include shops that operate like exclusive nightclubs, experts predicted at a Kirchberg conference, urging businesses to see constant change as an opportunity, not a threat.
The future of commerce was the central topic at an event hosted by the Luxembourg Confederation at Luxexpo in Kirchberg on Tuesday. The conference, which brought together industry leaders, featured insights from two internationally renowned experts on the necessary evolution of the retail sector.
Peter Hinssen, a visionary in innovation and digital transformation, argued that while constant change can be daunting, it must be viewed as an opportunity. He outlined three key pillars for future success in commerce: the ability to anticipate trends, heightened reactivity and flexibility, and building resilience. "This combination of anticipation, reactivity, and resilience must be at the heart of any business strategy," Hinssen stated.
Futurologist Magnus Lindkvist provided a complementary perspective, emphasising that a human, personal dimension will remain crucial, even in an increasingly digital landscape. He described the customer as being in a constant search for novelty. "We are not looking for perfection; we are looking for something that is different," Lindkvist explained, adding, "Historically, retail has always excelled at this."
Looking ahead, Lindkvist predicted a move away from traditional retail models toward more exclusive and experiential formats. He suggested future shops could operate like exclusive nightclubs, open only occasionally and requiring payment for entry. "We are talking about the future of retail here, not about whether shops should be open on Sundays in Luxembourg," he stressed, indicating that the changes he envisions are more fundamental than current local debates.
This focus on experience was echoed by retailers at the conference, who confirmed that the shopping experience itself is taking on an increasingly important role. They reported a growing customer demand for a seamless online offer, even from those who still prefer to visit physical stores.
