HR Retail Africa
Connect with Africa’s Leading Retail CHROs and HR Innovators
HR Retail Africa is the continent’s only summit dedicated to HR leaders in the retail sector. Taking place on 12–13 February 2026 in Johannesburg, the event brings together CHROs, HR Directors, and talent innovators to explore how digital transformation, shifting employee expectations, and new workforce realities are reshaping African retail. Over two days, delegates will share strategies, exchange insights, and build resilient people operations that drive business success and customer loyalty.
Who’s Speaking
A line-up of voices that matter in African retail HR.
Explore the sessions and insights shaping HR in African retail
Day 1: February 12
- Opening Keynote: Africa’s Retail Workforce in Transition
- Panel: Building Employee Experience That Drives Customer Loyalty
- Fireside Chat: The Safer Store — Balancing Tech and Trust
- Keynote: High-Volume Hiring Without High Drop-Offs
- Panel: Facial Recognition in Retail HR — Ethics vs Effectiveness
- Presentation: Employee Engagement in Hybrid Retail Models
- Panel: Diversity, Equity & Inclusion in African Retail
Day 2: February 13
- Keynote: AI That Works for HR in Africa
- Panel: From Dashboards to Decisions – People Analytics in Action
- Presentation: Workforce Lessons from E-Commerce & Township Retail
- Panel: Biometrics & Trust – Is Facial Recognition Worth It?
- Workshop: Compensation | Staffing | ORC Response
- Panel: Future Skills for African Retail HR Leaders
- Fireside Chat: Mental Health on the Frontline
Why Attend HR Retail Africa?
Inspiring Keynotes: Hear from visionary leaders driving workforce transformation in African retail.
Actionable Panels: Gain insights on talent strategy, employee wellbeing, DEI, and HR tech innovation.
Unparalleled Networking: Connect with CHROs, HR innovators, technology providers, and retail executives from across Africa.
Hands-on Workshops: Equip your HR teams with tools for workforce planning, upskilling, and hybrid work models.
Join us to
Redefine Workforce Strategy
Close skills gaps, reduce turnover, and retain talent
Harness Technology & AI
Leverage analytics and automation to boost HR efficiency.
Elevate Employee Wellbeing
Support mental health and inclusive workplace culture.
Design Flexible Work Models
Build hybrid and shift models that fit retail realities.
Advance Policy & Compliance
Stay ahead of labour laws, ESG, and inclusion standards.
Build Future-Ready Skills
Reskill teams for tomorrow’s retail.
All of Africa’s Leading Retailers. In One Room
From established giants to fast-growing disruptors, HR Retail Africa brings together the retailers shaping the future of the industry. Whether in fashion, grocery, e-commerce, or food and beverage, our agenda is built around the challenges and opportunities driving people strategy in African retail today.
Our Sponsors
Gold Partner
Workforce Transformation Partners
HR Insights Partners
Legal Insights Partner
Supporting Partner
Official coffee partner
Venue
Marriott Hotel Melrose Arch, Johannesburg
Located in the heart of Johannesburg’s vibrant Melrose Arch Precinct, the Marriott Hotel offers a premium setting for HR Retail Africa 2026. Delegates will enjoy a modern conference environment designed for both learning and networking, surrounded by one of the city’s most dynamic retail and lifestyle hubs.
