To kick off SM’s grand 65th Anniversary festivities, the 2023 SM Supermalls’ Tenant-Partners Summit commenced with esteemed guest speakers.
Renowned best-selling author and New Yorker columnist, Malcolm Gladwell, delivered the keynote address. Accompanying him was Emma Chiu, the Global Director of Wunderman Thompson Intelligence.
The diverse audience, packed with industry leaders, innovative entrepreneurs, and media influencers, couldn’t help but be captivated by Gladwell’s dynamic presence. His continuous movement around the circular stage ensured that every corner of SMX Halls F2-F4 felt like an intimate conversation, connecting with each person in the room.
In today’s vibrant market, three essential factors drive successful campaigns and branding efforts: authenticity, inclusivity, and spontaneity.
Gladwell encouraged the audience to join him in recognizing that the modern market doesn’t adhere to traditional hierarchies, as those over 30 might expect. For those born into the digital age, the new guiding principle is no longer hierarchy but rather a dynamic network of connections.
Emma dished out some serious insights into the retail game, especially in this post-pandemic era.
Chiu stressed the urgent need for retailers and brands to give their value propositions a makeover to stay in the game and tap into the new pulse of the market. With a bunch of real-life examples flashing on her slides, Chiu made a compelling argument for this fresh approach. She warned that if we don’t catch the wave of evolving consumer behavior, we might end up on the sidelines, slowly losing our relevance.
Steven Tan, the president of SM Supermalls, welcomed the attendees with a sneak peek into the thrilling journey that awaits as SM Supermalls charts its course to greater heights in the coming years.
Jeffrey Lim, president of SM Prime Holdings, Inc., on the other hand, extended heartfelt gratitude to all the partners who graced the summit and officially wrapped up the day’s festivities.
But let’s not forget the real stars of the show – the tenants and partners of SM Supermalls. They were the heart and soul of this celebration. Through thick and thin, especially during the tough times of the health crisis, they stood strong. They witnessed SM Supermalls not just listening but actively finding ways to support their survival. This strong sense of partnership has never been more alive and kicking.