BCSC President, Martyn Chase
“This year is a very special one for BCSC - our 25th anniversary – celebrating the contribution of the retail property industry to the local economies and communities we serve, and there is nowhere better to demonstrate this than the city of Liverpool.

“During the past few days, we have been challenged to re-examine some important issues by our speakers - from planning to business rates, and sustainability to urban regeneration. Outside of the conference, the showcase has been a real success and I was particularly pleased to welcome the Public Sector Hub this year – building on our relationship with local authorities.

"At a time when we all face challenges we have brought together nearly 3,000 people from the shopping centre industry to network, to learn and to do deals. The mood was cautious of course - but not gloomy and there was confidence in the long term prospects for our business.

“But what has made this conference really special has been the warm welcome from the people of Liverpool and the involvement of young people. Through the work of Generation 21, and by welcoming local school and university students, we have been able to explore what the future of our shopping environments and town centres might hold.”