2,500 delegates in city for BCSC 2015

THIS year’s British Council of Shopping Centres (BCSC), the retail real estate event of the year, is back in Manchester with a post-recession bang, taking place today and tomorrow (September 16 and 17) at Manchester Central.

With more than 2,500 delegates registered to attend, 450 retailers signed up and upwards of 40 speakers scheduled, it is estimated BCSC will contribute approximately £3m to the Greater Manchester Economy, according to Visit Manchester.

BCSC is returning North to mark the upturn in the retail market following three years at Olympia, London.

At the exhibition, owners, investors, developers, retailers, real estate agents, professional service consultants, a host of service providers and public sector representatives will meet to network, sign major sector transactions, debate the future of the retail economy and listen to inspirational speakers including ex-Asda boss, Andy Bond of Pep & Co, Henry Dimbelby, co-founder of Leon and Mark Fox of Starbucks UK.

Bilfinger GVA’s Richard Padley, director in the National Retail, Hotels & Leisure team, said: “Manchester and the retail property industry is delighted to welcome back BCSC for what is expected to be a busy and fruitful meeting of sector professionals and retailers from across the UK.

“The event has undoubtedly been bolstered by the upturn in the economy and with a number of schemes due to complete later this year such The Broadway, Bradford and Flemmingate, Beverley and also future schemes such as the new Chester Northgate, there is a genuine buzz of activity as well as ongoing expectation for the future of retail and leisure in the country.

“With a long list of major retailers, landlords and public sector bodies attending the event, we are expecting a very busy conference.

“The event has reinvented itself with new features including the Retailer Rendezvous, where established and new brands will present on their concept and requirements.”