In October, the BRC Legal Community ran a 'Retail in the Digital Era' conference in partnership with Said Business School. 

With the input of academics, industry experts, legal specialists, technology providers and regulators, the objective was to map out how digital technology is used in retail and and consider whether it needs special regulation. 

There was strong agreement about the key themes that need careful attention if retailers are to maximise the success of the rollout of new technology, not least AI, and harness its benefits successfully for consumers. There was also an understanding that any new regulation needs to take into account a proportionate approach for trustworthy businesses.

The document below shares the key themes emerging from the day and outlines the next steps as we look to help the retail industry harness the opportunities, overcome the challenges and create a landscape for success.