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On this episode of Talking Shop I’m joined by Alain Bejjani—former Group CEO of Middle East retail giant Majid Al Futtaim, and author of the definitive new book, NEXT: Leading Through the New Realities. Drawing on his childhood in war-torn Beirut, and his experience steering a $9.5bn dollar retail and lifestyle empire through a global pandemic, Alain brings an unmatched perspective on leadership under pressure. Today, we break down his crisis survival playbook for retailers operating in distress. We discuss why resilience must always outpace efficiency, the four assets a brand must protect at all costs, and how to turn macro-turmoil into a long-term direction that scales.

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Paul Smith Ltd has appointed Ewan Venters as executive chairman, effective 1 October 2025.

Venters, who joined the board as a non-executive director in February, was previously chief executive of the global contemporary art gallery Hauser and Wirth. 

Before that he led Fortnum and Mason for eight years, overseeing its brand transformation and growth, and held senior positions at Selfridges.

Alongside his new role, Venters will remain chair of the Private Sector Council of the government’s GREAT campaign, which promotes UK business overseas. 

He was awarded an OBE in the 2024 King’s Honours List for services to international trade.

Founded in 1970, Paul Smith operates more than 130 shops in over 60 countries.

Sir Paul Smith, founder of the company, said: “In his time at Paul Smith as a non-executive director, Ewan has brought boundless energy and a welcome perspective to help propel us into our next chapter. I’m very excited to continue working together.”

Venters added: “Paul Smith is one of Britain’s most enduring, captivating and beloved brands, and I am thrilled to be joining the team at an important juncture in its development.”

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