Talking Epta Arena
DÜSSELDORF - FEB. 22 - 26 2026 HALL 15 - STAND B24- B42
Insights, dialogue and perspectives from the retail ecosystem
Leading figures from the retail world, opinion leaders, representatives of industry associations, partners and customers will bring the Talking Epta Arena to life, offering authoritative insights and complementary perspectives.
Each day of the trade fair will be dedicated to a set of key topics for the sector, providing an up-to-date, dynamic and forward-looking snapshot of the industry.
Don’t miss a single talk!
Discover the full Talking Epta Arena programme.
Watch the complete speech you cannot miss! Watch the Epta Talking Arena highlights on the official Play List
Experts, Partners and Guest Speakers
Prof. Dr. Stephan Rüschen
Professor of Retail Management at DHBW Heilbronn. With a career that spans top leadership roles at Metro Cash & Carry and Tengelmann Group, and years of academic research on smart 24/7 stores, sustainability and digital transformation, Professor Ruschen offers a rare blend of strategic vision and real-world experience. In his session, he will explore how German retail is evolving, from new store concept to data-driven operations and more responsible business models, and what these trends mean for the future of our industry.
Yulia Grazhdian
Yulia Grazhdian, Head of Capital Construction and Renewable Energy Procurement at Fozzy Group, to EuroShop 2026. With her vast experience in large-scale construction, Yulia bridges the gap between architectural innovation and technical procurement to build the resilient environments of tomorrow. In this session, Yulia will answer a critical question: Where do aesthetics and efficiency intersect in the retail world? She will explore how responsible energy strategies and unique layouts create standout brand identities that drive true market competitiveness.
Christine Luetzkendorf
Policy Adviser on PFAS and Fluorinated Greenhouse Gases at Deutsche Umwelthilfe (DUH). With a strong background in environmental policy and science-based analysis, Christine Luetzkendorf focuses on the environmental and regulatory impacts of fluorinated substances and refrigerants. In her session, she will explore the role of F-Gases in the PFAS crisis, their long-lasting effects on the environment, and what the industry’s transition away from these substances means for the future of refrigeration.
Hans Olav Bakås
Entrepreneur and CEO of LIBERTY NOW AS, Hans Olav Bakås is a pioneer of self-operating retail. Starting from a small country store in Telemark, he helped transform Norwegian grocery through RMA Store Management—technology that enables customers to access stores anytime while giving retailers greater control. In his session at EuroShop, he will share how autonomous store concepts and high-tech retail solutions are redefining convenience, accessibility and the future of always-open shopping.
Josep Ametller
Entrepreneur and CEO of Ametller Origen, Josep Ametller has spent 25 years cultivating a new vision of food retail rooted in innovation, vertical integration and purpose. Coming from a family of farmers dating back to 1830, he transformed a local agricultural heritage into one of Catalonia’s leading food groups—where health, sustainability and quality guide every decision. In his session at EuroShop, he will share how a fully integrated farm-to-store model, continuous innovation and a deep commitment to people and the planet are shaping the future of fresh and processed food.
Francesco Sacco
Professor of Strategy and Entrepreneurship at SDA Bocconi, Francesco Sacco is a leading voice on digital transformation and evolving business models. With experience spanning academia, government advisory roles and collaborations with global technology leaders, he brings a sharp and future-oriented perspective to the strategic shifts shaping today’s economy. In his session at EuroShop, he will explore how servitization is evolving in the digital era—reshaping value creation, competitive advantage and the future of business through integrated products, services and data-driven strategies.
Yves Puget
A leading voice in retail transformation, Yves Puget—Director of LSA and renowned Retail Expert—offers a sharp, insight‑driven view on how consumption patterns are evolving in an increasingly complex market. With decades of experience across retail dynamics, innovation and consumer behavior, he combines strategic foresight with deep industry understanding. In his session at the Talking Epta Arena, Puget will examine the trends redefining consumption—from emerging behaviors to the structural shifts reshaping how retailers operate and compete. He will also open “The Day After the Invisible”, shedding light on the hidden forces shaping the retail ecosystem and why making them visible is essential for the industry's future.
More speakers and guest contributors will be announced soon
Check back regularly to discover the full line-up.