Autumn Fair launches free 1-2-1 Mentor Sessions

Retailers registering for Autumn Fair 2026 will have the opportunity to book a slot to receive free personalised business advice from some of the UK’s leading retail experts with the launch of the show’s brand-new 1-2-1 Mentor Sessions.

Taking place in The Clubhouse in Hall 9 throughout Autumn Fair at the NEC Birmingham from 6^th – 9^th September, the complimentary 30-minute 1-2-1 consultations have been created to give independent retailers, buyers and business owners direct access to experienced retail professionals who can provide tailored advice on everything from increasing sales and improving store layouts to strengthening product ranges, buying more effectively and future-proofing their businesses.

With appointments available on a first-come, first-served basis, the sessions aim to provide practical, actionable recommendations that retailers can implement immediately, helping them overcome challenges and unlock new opportunities for growth.

The launch comes at a time when independent retailers continue to navigate rising costs, changing consumer expectations and increased competition, making expert advice more valuable than ever.

Meet the experts

Retailers will be able to book appointments with an exceptional line-up of industry specialists, each bringing decades of commercial experience across different areas of retail.

John Abbate – Retail Design & Visual Merchandising Expert

Discover how to transform your shop into a destination customers want to visit. John will advise on everything from window displays and shopfronts to store layout, customer journey and visual merchandising to help retailers increase footfall, dwell time and sales.

Samantha Gibbs – Founder & Director, Nest

Drawing on the success of her award-winning independent retail business, Samantha will share practical advice on buying, merchandising, customer experience and creating community-focused retail environments that drive profitability and customer loyalty.

Katy Norton & Lynsey Abbott – Co-founders, Buying & Beyond

Experts in buying, merchandising and commercial strategy, Katy and Lynsey help retailers build stronger product ranges, identify emerging trends, improve supplier relationships and make more confident buying decisions that drive long-term commercial success.

Ami Rabheru – Founder, Retail Huddle

Whether tackling operational challenges, sharpening retail strategy or preparing for the future, Ami will help retailers identify practical opportunities to improve performance, strengthen leadership and accelerate business growth.

Matthew Mein, Event Director at Autumn Fair said: “We know that today’s retailers aren’t just looking for great products, they’re looking for ideas, inspiration and practical support that will help their businesses thrive. Sometimes one conversation can completely change the direction of a business, whether it’s refining a buying strategy, improving visual merchandising or discovering new ways to increase profitability. The mentoring sessions give our visitors something they simply can’t get online: dedicated one-to-one time with some of the industry’s most experienced retailers and consultants, who understand the challenges businesses are facing because they’ve lived them themselves. These 30 minutes could provide a year’s worth of ideas, and it’s another way we’re investing in our community and ensuring visitors leave Autumn Fair with not only fantastic new products, but practical advice that will continue delivering value long after the show ends. Register now to book your slot.” 

How to book

Sessions are only available to those who have registered for the show and can be booked online ahead of your visit onsite. Visit https://www.autumnfair.com/register-mentor-sessions for more information.

Autumn Fair 2026 takes place 6th – 9th September 2026 at the NEC Birmingham.