How the BRC Leaders Summer School 2026 Reflects the New Retail Reality

The retail industry is undergoing rapid transformation—driven by digital innovation, shifting consumer expectations, and the rise of hybrid work. To stay ahead, retail leaders need to adapt not just their business models, but also how they learn and develop. That’s why the BRC Leaders Summer School has been reimagined to meet the needs of modern retail leadership.

Why Retail Leadership Development Must Evolve

Retail is no longer just about operational excellence; it’s about agility, digital fluency, and leading diverse, dispersed teams. According to the World Economic Forum, the top skills for future leaders include analytical thinking, resilience, and leadership in digital environments. McKinsey’s research shows that experiential, peer-driven learning—like business simulations and real-world projects—delivers the most lasting impact for leaders, especially in fast-changing sectors like retail.

The BRC Leaders Summer School 2026 responds to these trends by:

• Offering flexible learning formats: Choose between immersive in-person sessions in London or a fully online journey, supporting both traditional and hybrid teams.
• Increasing accessibility: Both formats are designed for today’s retail workforce, where remote and flexible work are the norm.
• Enhancing engagement: Live workshops, virtual coaching, and business simulations reflect how leaders learn best—by doing, reflecting, and collaborating.
• Supporting L&D budgets: Scalable options mean organisations can invest in leadership development for more people, a key priority as retail faces ongoing talent shortages (LinkedIn Learning, 2024).
• Future-proofing leadership: The curriculum is tailored to the realities of retail, focusing on practical, modern leadership skills that drive business results.

What’s New for 2026

Two learning journeys for modern retail leaders:

• In-Person: Five full-day sessions at The Form Rooms, London (June–July 2026), including onboarding, immersive workshops, business simulation, coaching groups, and a celebration event.
• Virtual: Flexible, bi-weekly content drops via our online learning platform Thrive (June–August 2026), virtual coaching, business simulation, and an optional in-person celebration.

Key features include:

• Experiential workshops and a business simulation project throughout the programme, mirroring the real-world challenges retail leaders face
• Peer-to-peer learning and practical application, supporting cross-company networking
• Access to keynote speakers and expert facilitators with deep retail expertise
• CPD certification which helps leaders meet professional development goals

What’s Staying the Same

The programme’s foundation remains:

• The unique four-lens approach: People, Planet, Profit, Purpose
• Commitment to high-quality, experiential learning
• Focus on conscious leadership and self-awareness
• Ongoing alumni events and continued learning opportunities

Why This Matters for HR & L&D in Retail

• Inclusivity: Teams can choose the format that fits them best, supporting diversity and accessibility.
• Scalability: Designed for dispersed teams and varying budgets, aligning with the latest HR and L&D trends in retail.
• Practical Impact: Content is tailored to the real-world challenges of retail leadership, with a focus on skills that drive business results.
• Recognition: Now CPD certified, supporting professional development and compliance goals.

What Past Delegates Say

“I am a leader, but after the BRC I am a much better leader and ready for anything. It’s been an emotional experience that’s changed me for the better.”
— Gareth, Store Manager, World Duty Free

“The course confirmed I’m on the right path. Leadership isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about curiosity, self-awareness, and growth.”
— Nadjib, Regional Operations Manager, BKUK

“A brilliant opportunity to grow, learn and unlearn. Be prepared to be inspired, challenged—and to have fun!”
— Ellie, Supply Chain Manager (Imports), Dreams

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To find out more about the programme and explore if it’s right for you or your team, head over to the BRC Leaders Summer School page. 

BRC Members receive 15% off all learning programmes, and early bird discounts are available until 31 December.