A Week of Positive Stats…
This week Ellandi and Knight Frank launched their ‘Beyond Retail: Repurposing Retail’ Report. On Monday, John and Howard attended their panel discussion which highlighted some interesting data from their recent research.
An introduction by Stephen Springham at Knight Frank indicated some positive facts about the retail industry (against the well publicised negative!), in terms of recent consumer spending, as well as the importance of the industry with regards to GDP, employment and value to a community.
The Ellandi research, presented by Head of Research and Analytics, Isabelle Hease, emphasised the need to adapt retail environments so that they are relevant to their respective community.
”Finding a specific and correct role for space based on the specific needs of the visitors is crucial in ensuring Community schemes remain relevant in their regional and local hierarchy.
Ellandi & Knight FrankBeyond Retail: Repurposing Retail Report (p6)
Interestingly, City A.M. published an article the following day highlighting the continuing importance of investing in design in terms of economic growth, profitability and wellbeing.
”A recent McKinsey study showed that businesses that embraced design generated 32% more revenue and 56% more shareholder returns than rivals over a five-year period.
Sarah WeirChief Executive, Design Council
”...the widespread misconception that design is just a way to make something look nicer, rather than a discipline that can help businesses work better, be more productive, and employ more people.
Sarah WeirChief Executive, Design Council