- Global debate on the future of the retail industry now set for 25 to 27 October -

Organisers today announced that the World Retail Congress will meet from 25 to 27 October, following this week’s unavoidable postponement when volcanic ash caused unprecedented travel disruption.

As previously scheduled, Berlin will host the annual meeting of the Global retail industry for the first time, with the Congress set to take place at the InterContinental Hotel.

Congress organisers are currently liaising with more than 100 industry experts who were set to speak, and expect most to confirm their participation for the newly announced dates. A number, including Michael Gould, Chairman & CEO, Bloomingdale’s; Heinz Krogner, Chairman, Esprit; and Mindy Grossman, CEO, HSN, Inc, are already confirmed, with the full line up and newly revised programme set to be announced in the coming weeks.

A new date has likewise been announced for the Oracle World Retail Awards and Gala Dinner, which will take place during the Congress at The German Historic Museum on the evening of 26 October. The exclusive World Retail Hall of Fame will equally be held at the Berlin Ritz Carlton on the evening of 25 October, with The Study Tour bringing the 2010 Congress to a close on the afternoon of 28 October.

The World Retail Congress is the only truly international meeting of the global retail industry, with leading figures from across the sector drawn together to resolve the most crucial global issues. The World Retail Congress is organised by Emap Communications, in association with key sponsors, Deloitte, MasterCard and Oracle.

- Ends -

For further information, please contact FD: Victoria Wallin, + 44 (0)20 7269 9360 Emma Hammond, +44 (0)20 7269 9347 Or email wrcenquiries@fd.com

Notes to editors:

WORLD RETAIL CONGRESS Created in direct response to the demands of retailers, and supported by major international players including Tesco, Carrefour, Ikea, Alshaya, and Best Buy, the World Retail Congress will once again bring together the world’s retail leaders for high-level debate with international policy makers.

The aim is to drive growth in the global retail economy, promote the benefits of global retail excellence and gain sustainable, competitive edge in domestic and international markets. With thousands of key retail professionals and politicians expected to attend, the focus will be on discussing and influencing the issues for change. Further details are available online at www.worldretailcongress.com  or by emailing info@worldretailcongress.com .