HGF sponsors pro-manchester Retail Lunch 2026

As part of the event, HGF Partner and Trade Mark Attorney Lauren Somers will be attending and chairing two panel sessions, bringing together industry experts to explore some of the key trends, opportunities and challenges shaping the future of retail.

The event will bring together leaders and professionals from across the retail industry to discuss the rapidly evolving retail landscape. This year’s programme will consider how businesses are responding to economic pressures, changing digital landscapes and evolving consumer expectations, while sharing insights into how retailers can position themselves for future growth.

The annual event brings together leaders and professionals from across the retail industry to discuss the rapidly evolving retail landscape. This year, the programme will examine how businesses are responding to economic pressures, changing digital landscapes and evolving consumer expectations, while considering how retailers can position themselves for future growth.

Lauren will chair two panel discussions during the event:

Panel 1: Heritage & Community
The first session will explore how heritage brands can preserve their identity while creating modern, locally relevant shopping experiences, including how established retailers can remain true to their values while connecting with the communities they serve.

Panel 2: Marketing Efficiency
The second panel will turn its attention to technology and marketing, looking beyond the AI hype to discuss the use of predictive technology for hyper-personalisation and measurable return on investment. The discussion will consider how retailers can identify scalable opportunities for growth while marketing budgets remain under pressure and consumers increasingly expect relevant, personalised experiences.

Lauren Somers is a Chartered UK Trade Mark Attorney and Partner at HGF, advising clients ranging from multinational organisations to start-ups on trade mark strategy, oppositions, appeals and contentious matters. Her experience spans sectors including cosmetics, clothing, food, pharmaceuticals, software and professional services. Lauren is also Co-Chair of the Pro-Manchester Retail & E-commerce Committee, giving her valuable insight into the commercial and intellectual property issues facing businesses within the sector.