Page 5 - 2025AwardsWinners

Two Decades of Global Recognition, What a spectacular evening,

what a proud achievement for
One Unforgettable Celebration Concept i, what an impactful
two-decade celebration for
RLI! Congratulations to Jayne
Rafter and to RLI’s 20 years of
The landmark twentieth edition of the Global RLI Awards was a remarkable celebration of retail and leisure inspiration in this high-energy
retail and leisure industry.”
excellence, hosted on 25 June at the opulent The Londoner hotel in London, UK. This milestone black-tie Frank Van Dongen, Director,
gala brought together industry leaders, pioneering brands and transformative projects from across the globe Concept I
for a night that reflected the spirit of innovation and the power of connection.

ince their inception, the Global RLI Awards The evening’s festivities began with a stylish RLI was proud to introduce a one-time, prestig-
Shave stood as a key event on the retail real Champagne Reception, providing attendees with ious accolade: the RLI Visionary Leader Award,
estate calendar and taken place across a series a lively setting to reconnect from previous events created to mark the 20th Anniversary of the
of unique locations, including Dubai, Los Angeles and forge brand new relationships. Many thanks Global RLI Awards and honour an individual
and Riyadh, evolving alongside an industry that go to MK Illumination for once again providing whose exceptional leadership has shaped and
thrives on innovation. This year’s ceremony, held a perfect backdrop in our champagne reception inspired the global retail and leisure landscape.
in association with Headline Partner Sands Retail, for memorable photo opportunities in front of The inaugural recipient, Patrick Chalhoub,
was no exception. As RLI celebrated its two-dec- their ‘Angel Wings’. Executive Chairman of Chalhoub Group, has been
I just wanted to say thank you for such an inspiring and motivating
ade legacy, the 20th Anniversary edition stood A world-class three-course meal followed a driving force in redefining the luxury retail couple of days. It was fantastic to connect with so many people from
as a testament to the extraordinary evolution of which set the stage perfectly for the evening’s experience in the Middle East and beyond. His such diverse backgrounds and everything was structured brilliantly.”
our industry - highlighting those who continue to milestone entertainment: an electrifying live visionary leadership, commitment to innovation Sam Appleton, Trading Director, Jon Richard
redefine the future of retail real estate, placemak- performance of ‘Just For One Day’ - a powerful and dedication to meaningful partnerships have
ing, entertainment and technology. theatrical tribute to the iconic 1985 Live Aid set new benchmarks for the industry, making
RLI Publisher Jayne Rafter highlighted the concerts. This extraordinary production brought him a fitting and celebrated recipient of this The twentieth edition of the Global RLI Awards, Since its debut in 2013, RLI Connect has contin- next-generation destination development and
spirit and celebratory nature of the evening to life the music and spirit of a generation, landmark honour. set against the stunning backdrop of The uously evolved and this year’s forum continued transformational partnerships, this year’s event
in her opening remarks: “Two decades ago, we with hits being played that the whole audience The distinguished panel of international judges Londoner, offered unparalleled networking oppor- the exciting new format that was introduced at exemplified the power of connection and the
launched RLI with a bold ambition: to create a knew and loved. Once the curtain had come had the unenviable task of selecting the winners, tunities with global developers, retailers, inves- the 2024 edition. The event focused on dynamic bold spirit of innovation that has defined RLI for
global platform that celebrates the very best in down on the performance, it was time for the showcasing the depth of talent and creativity tors and leisure leaders - all brought together to panel sessions that discussed game-changing two decades.
retail and leisure and to champion those trans- awards presentation. within the industry and our thanks goes to them celebrate achievement and toast to the future. topics that are shaping the future of the indus- So… what does next year have in store? Stay
forming spaces, experiences and expectations. The ceremony put the spotlight on 17 indi- for all their hard work. Alongside Headline Part- As is RLI tradition, the Global RLI Awards were try. The four panel sessions featured visionary tuned as we look forward to a new era of the
What began as a vision has grown into a global vidual categories, from bold start-ups to global ner Sands Retail, special thanks must also go to held alongside the RLI Connect Global Forum, speakers from across the globe and concluded Global RLI Awards in 2026, we promise a spectac-
community and tonight is a tribute to the people, powerhouses, this year’s winners and finalists category sponsors DAISO, Innesco and MK Illu- proudly presented in association with Headline with a fireside chat with the Managing Director ular celebration alongside an evolving RLI Connect
the projects and the partnerships that have represented the very best in innovation, creativ- mination, whose contributions helped make the Partner Sands Retail and Industry Partner Inne- of Harrods, Michael Ward. Global Forum that will continue to push the bound-
made that journey extraordinary.” ity and commercial success. evening unforgettable. sco, at The Soho Hotel in London on 24 June. From AI and immersive experiences to aries and connect people across the world.

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