autumn 2025 TalkShop Seminars

Bringing together industry experts to share tools, insights and navigate changes influencing the retail landscape to help you and your business thrive.

Captivate & Convert: Mastering the Art of In-Store Displays

This engaging workshop will inspire, inform, and equip retailers to take their shop and window displays to the next level. We’ll cover the core principles of visual merchandising, including design fundamentals, merchandising techniques, and effective retail zoning. We’ll also dive into the psychology of visual merchandising and how to target specific demographics. By the end of this workshop, you'll gain the knowledge and tools to create an atmosphere that entices customers to linger in your store and make purchases.

Genevieve Flynn, Design Consultant
Sunday, 2 March – 11.00 AM

From Trends to Tactics: Social Media Strategies That Sell

Discover how to make social media your retail superpower with Clive Antony, founder of Antony & Mates, a cutting-edge creative agency based in Christchurch. In this session, Clive will reveal:

• Why social media is still a game-changer for retailers in 2025.
• How to leverage platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, which boast millions of users in New Zealand.
• The art of crafting content that builds trust—because 81% of consumers only buy from brands they trust.
• Steps to creating an effective content strategy that gets results.
• Why paid promotion isn’t just an option—it’s a must for growing your reach.

Clive will equip you with the tools, tactics, and confidence to stand out in a crowded online marketplace. Don’t miss this engaging and insightful session packed with real-world tips to turn your followers into loyal customers!

Clive Antony, Social Media Expert and Founder of Antony & Mates
Sunday, 2 March – 1.00 PM
Monday, 3 March – 1.00 PM

RetailNZ Insights: Preparing Your Business for What's Next

Hear from Carolyn Young, CEO of RetailNZ, New Zealand's leading retail membership association. Carolyn will provide insights on the current economic climate and its impact on the retail industry, including the latest RetailNZ Economic Update and key government changes affecting retailers.

Carolyn Young, Chief Executive – Retail NZ
Monday, 3 March – 11.00 AM 

Capturing Opportunities: Strategies for Economic Shifts

Former Alibaba General Manager - Rural Taobao, TMall FMCG New Retail, Roman will discuss how businesses can grow despite a reduction in consumer spending, analyse changes in consumer behaviour, such as altered spending habits and priorities, and assess the impacts on merchants. Additionally, he will explore strategies for businesses to overcome consumer barriers and still achieve profitability.

Roman Zhu, Ecommerce Partner – Zappy
Monday, 4 March – 11.00 AM