Globally known as “The Customer Whisperer”, Hardcastle is one of the retail sector’s most trusted consumer behaviour experts, advising major global brands including Disney and M&S. She’s now taking her acclaimed knowledge on the road to promote her new book, The Science of Shopping: How Psychology and Innovation Create a Winning Retail Strategy, following its UK release on 3 June.
On Wednesday 11 June, from 6–9pm, the spotlight will shine on Macclesfield’s iconic Arighi Bianchi store as Hardcastle headlines a fireside conversation hosted by BBC Radio 2’s Phil Williams. The event, open to retail and business leaders, promises no-nonsense insights into the shifting landscape of modern retail, backed by sharp analysis and hard-earned experience.
Forget the fluff – Hardcastle is known for cutting through the noise. The evening will cover some of the boldest and most commercially critical challenges retailers face today: from decoding what truly motivates customer behaviour, to navigating the balance between tech-driven innovation and human connection.
Attendees will also hear from a panel of high-profile retail names, including Richard Pownall (CEO, Pooky Lights), Jan Duckworth (MD, Cox & Cox), and Sarah Bianchi (CEO, Arighi Bianchi). Adding a unique perspective to the mix is Paralympic Champion Hannah Cockroft, who will speak on retail accessibility and the importance of inclusive design.
Kate has acted as an advisor for Arighi Bianchi, creating a headline strategy that has seen the brand reaffirm its position in a challenging market. She cites the family-run business in the book, as an example of retail done right – blending heritage, heart, and forward-thinking innovation.
Why attend? In a market overwhelmed by data and obsessed with digital, The Science of Shopping takes a refreshingly holistic view – blending consumer psychology with practical, real-world strategies. Highlights include Kate’s original “Buyerarchy of Needs” framework (comfort, connection, confidence, control, community), a sharp focus on the “Human Touch” in the age of AI, and case studies featuring retailers like Selfridges, Erewhon, Aldi, and Primark.
This Cheshire stop is part of a high-impact global tour already spanning Dubai, Milan, London, New York, Los Angeles, Cannes, and Amsterdam, with Asia dates to be announced for the autumn.
Tickets are £19.95 (with fizz and canapés) or £49.95 for those wanting a signed copy of the book.
Whether you’re deep in retail strategy, interested in consumer trends, or just want a front-row seat to one of the sector’s sharpest minds, this is not an event to miss.
Event details:
Wednesday 11 June, 6–9pm Arighi Bianchi, The Silk Road, Macclesfield, SK10 1LH
Tickets: BOOK HERE https://www.eventbrite.com/e/
