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Titled From dial-up to dominance: what ASOS taught me about the future of independent retail, the session (14:00–14:45) will see Robertson reflect on the early strategic decisions that helped ASOS grow from a start-up launched in 2000 into a global e-commerce powerhouse that reshaped how a generation discovered and bought fashion.

In a relaxed, insight-rich conversation, Robertson will unpack how spotting the rise of celebrity-inspired shopping, sharpening product curation and having absolute clarity on customer identity powered ASOS’s rapid growth. Crucially, he will translate those lessons for today’s independents, sharing practical ideas that can be implemented immediately – from tighter edits and stronger storytelling to simple, budget-friendly online improvements.

Looking ahead, the session will also explore where fashion and lifestyle retail is heading next, including the growing influence of marketplaces, shifting customer expectations and the trends worth tracking for retailers determined to stay relevant.

David Westbrooke, Show Director at Top Drawer, commented:

“Fashion is one of the fastest-growing sectors at Top Drawer, with 22% more exhibitors and floor space year-on-year. Nick’s session perfectly reflects the momentum we’re seeing - independent retailers want insight that’s grounded in real commercial experience, and hearing directly from someone who helped shape modern fashion retail will be invaluable for buyers and brands navigating what’s next.”

Nick Robertson is the co-founder and former CEO of ASOS, where he spent 15 years guiding the business through the formative years of digital retail and into its position as one of the UK’s most influential online fashion brands. Today, he remains on the ASOS board and holds a diverse portfolio of roles, including Chair of the ASOS Foundation and Chair of Gandys International, the B Corp-certified travel and lifestyle brand recognised for its social impact. He also supports a range of high-growth consumer businesses and contributes to AFC Wimbledon, bringing together start-up agility, FTSE-level leadership and purpose-driven brand building.

Robertson’s appearance forms part of Retail Revealed Live, Top Drawer’s content programme, designed to deliver actionable insights, fresh thinking, and practical tools for modern retailers, brought to life on the show floor.

About Top Drawer
Top Drawer is the UK’s leading design-led retail trade event, connecting a diverse community of buyers, brands, and designers for standout curation and inspiration. Presented biannually at Olympia London, Top Drawer forms part of the Clarion Events Retail portfolio, alongside the Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival, January Furniture Show, and digital platform Retail Revealed.

Press Enquiries:
Ren Noel, Marketing Manager — ren.noel@clarionevents.com

Content Enquiries:
Simone Ward, Content Manager — simone.ward@clarionevents.com