The Retail Technology Show (RTS) made its debut at London ExCeL on 2–3 April, delivering its largest and most vibrant edition yet. More than 14,000 retail professionals attended the two-day event—an 11% increase on the previous year—making it the biggest RTS to date.
With 438 exhibitors showcasing technology and solutions across the full spectrum of retail operations, the event drew a high concentration of senior professionals and key decision-makers, further cementing RTS’s reputation as a pivotal event for connecting retail with innovation.
From AI-driven analytics and automation tools to advanced payment solutions, omnichannel integrations, and customer engagement platforms, the show floor presented a diverse cross-section of the most current technologies in the sector. Sustainability once again emerged as a dominant theme across exhibitor messaging, with many vendors showcasing products and services designed to reduce environmental impact—from energy-efficient hardware to data-led systems for reducing waste across the supply chain.
As exhibitors ourselves, we had the opportunity to engage directly with a wide variety of visitors throughout the event. The steady footfall provided an excellent platform for face-to-face conversations with retailers, fellow exhibitors, and solution providers from across the industry. These conversations not only highlighted the challenges retailers are facing but also opened up genuine opportunities for collaboration and innovation.
Commenting on the show’s relevance, Penny Grivea, former UK & Ireland Managing Director at Rituals, said RTS was helping retailers stay “relevant” and “on their toes.” Maria Hollins, CEO of Ann Summers, described the event as a place where there is “always something that’s interesting you can take away to your own business.
The conference programme featured over 125 expert speakers, including M&S Chairman Archie Norman, entrepreneur Theo Paphitis, The Body Coach Joe Wicks, and All Saints founder Stuart Trevor. Speaking on the RTS stage, Trevor described the event as a unifying platform that “brings together all different people, from all walks of the industry.” Kate Hardcastle MBE, who chaired the Spectacular Headline Stage, reinforced the view that RTS has become “a beautiful meeting point where technology and retail converge.”
Prerana Issar, Chief People Officer and Head of Corporate Affairs at Sainsbury’s, added that the fusion of retail and technology at RTS reflected the reality of the modern industry: “They aren’t two different things anymore – they haven’t been for a while now.”
Outside of the conference theatres and exhibition halls, RTS took on the atmosphere of a carnival. From dodgems and carousel rides to immersive entertainment areas, the show introduced a playful dimension to the networking experience. At the end of day one, the energy shifted to Retail’s BIG Party, an evening event that gathered the entire industry for socialising and celebration.
A highlight of the evening was the announcement of the Retail Technology Innovation Award, which recognises standout advancements showcased at the event. This year’s winner was Profitmind, an AI-powered profit engine for retail that leverages machine learning and generative AI to drive profitability. The solution was selected for its ability to track competitors, analyse internal data, and surface fast-impact revenue and margin growth opportunities, thereby increasing productivity, transparency, and profitability. Described by RTS Innovation Award judge Oliver Banks as “a commercially minded AI [that lives] in your pocket, crunching through complex data to prioritise business opportunities,” Profitmind stood out among a high calibre of competition.
Following the award presentation, attendees enjoyed a Queen tribute performance that thrilled the crowd—surpassing even last year’s appearance by an Elton John act, which many thought couldn’t be topped.
Alex Gourlay, Executive Chair at Holland & Barrett, summed up the spirit of the event, commenting: “It’s a great event, but it’s not just about the technology; it’s about meeting people and about building relationships.”
Following strong engagement, 89% of exhibitors rebooked on-site for next year. Planning is already underway for RTS 2026, which returns to London ExCeL on 22–23 April 2026.
Reflecting on this year’s show, RTS Event Director Matt Bradley said: “From the knock-out conference programme sporting some of retail’s trailblazers, to the breadth and depth of the innovation on the show floor, through to the amazing entertainment – every detail was fine-tuned to deliver one of our best shows to date.”
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