AIS has officially launched its 2026 Golden Regional Meeting series, celebrating 50 Years, starting in the North West, with a fantastic couple of days spent with Members.
The event began with a celebratory dinner, with an inspiring tour of Stringers in Lytham, offering a brilliant example of modern independent department store retailing in action. Members also visited Doorway to Value, near Chorley, part of the Stokers group, delivering a premium furniture retail experience across an impressive, large-scale showroom footprint.
Ben Creasey, on attending his first Regional Meeting, commented:
Being the first time attending a Regional Meeting, I see invaluable opportunities for building the network and learning from other Members. It's amazing how everyone shares information.
Ronney Ball, from Wroes, commented:
Regional Meetings are a great opportunity to meet with other Members. They're a great touchpoint to see something new, learn something new and have useful strategic discussions.
A real highlight was a fireside chat with David Austin, of Austins of Newton Abbot, representing one of AIS’s founding businesses, in conversation with Sarah Bianchi, of Arighi Bianchi. David spoke openly about his journey in the family business, describing it as a “one-way ticket,” and shared his passion for independent retail, the importance of community and the responsibility of continuing a legacy. He also reflected on the future with pride, as his two daughters now begin their own journey within the business.
David's daughter, Lily Austin, commented:
One of the most valuable benefits of AIS are opportunities like the Regional Meetings to meet with other Members, exchange information and learn something that can benefit our business.
The formal agenda covered a wide range of updates, including progress on AIS’s Golden Anniversary programme, financial performance, employment law changes, and product developments. Members also explored emerging retail trends, and the growing role of AI in driving efficiency and effectiveness across their businesses.
Open discussions tackled some of the most pressing issues facing the sector, including energy pricing, supplier surcharges and business rates, alongside opportunities in brand development, and evolving customer behaviour.
Guy Barker, from Barkers of Northallerton, commented:
I'm a big fan of Regional Meetings as you get so much valuable insight. It's so great to catch up with likeminded retailers.
The strong engagement throughout the event highlights the resilience, adaptability, and collaborative spirit of the AIS membership, and sets a positive tone for the Golden Regional Meetings, taking place across the UK throughout 2026 and 2027.
