BODW 2023 Summit: Game Changers

What an incredible week at the Business of Design Week 2023 Summit in Hong Kong, which brought together creative leaders, policymakers, and business executives. This year the focus was on Game Changers, those who share in a commitment to a sustainable future, future-facing design, and promote sensitive and innovative solutions. Perfectly summed up by Guest of Honour, Mr Eric Chan Kwok-ki, Chief Secretary for Administration of the HKSAR Government:

‘The theme of this year’s BODW, Game Changers, could not have been timelier. … It’s time for policymakers, business executives, and creative leaders local and worldwide to be game changing, setting ambitious goals, and driving smart innovations in design and branding process.’

We are honoured to have been invited to speak at the event as a Game Changer and share the stage with so many inspiring voices from the industry.

Sybarite Co-Founder, Simon Mitchell gave a presentation on ‘Hybrid Retail: Converging Commerce, Community, and Culture’ where he underscored the relentless growth of the experience economy. He emphasised the enduring nature of this trend, shedding light on the pivotal role of in-store experiences and physical retail spaces in brand exploration and discovery, as well as introduced a new blueprint for hybrid retail, SKP Chengdu.

‘There’s a rising phenomenon in hospitality and culture-led spaces, and as architects and designers of the hybrid experience, we’re tasked with considering the balance of experience and the acquisition of memories.’

Simon also joined David François, Managing Director at Tag and Founder and Managing Director of Monimedia, and David Buffonge, Co-Founder and Executive Director at Lead8, in the panel discussion: Retail of the Future: Crafting Engaging Phygital Experiences, moderated by Delicia Tan.

During the session, the panellists explored the influential role of storytelling and the dynamic interplay between traditional design principles that enhance customer experiences. They delved into the importance of flexible and adaptable products as integral elements for the future of the built environment. The discussion also touched upon the agility enabled by sophisticated digital solutions, emphasising their role as tools to meet consumer expectations for a seamless transition from offline to online experiences.

Video courtesy of © 2023 Hong Kong Design Centre