During the first two days of the Congress, the Auditorium at the Palma Congress Centre will host the Conference Sessions, featuring a curated programme of content designed to explore, analyse and debate the key issues shaping the industry.
In parallel, the Exhibition Hall will host the Commercial Exhibition, where attendees can discover new projects, ideas and services across a wide range of stands. It also serves as a key networking space, providing opportunities for informal meetings and interaction among delegates in a relaxed environment.
The Gala Dinner and the complementary activities included in the programme will take place at selected venues across the city of Palma, offering participants unique settings in which to continue networking and enjoying the Congress experience.
Acreditation badges are emailed to attendees a few days before the event. Bringing a printed badge ensures a smoother entry process for all attendees and helps prevent crowding.
Pick up your welcome pack and credentials
The opening ceremony of the XXII Spanish Congress of Shopping Centers & Retail Parks will bring together distinguished industry leaders and key sector representatives.
The Congress Chair, Alfonso Brunet, together with Eduardo Ceballos, President of AECC, will preside over the ceremony, which will also be attended by institutional representatives and members of the Congress Organising Committee.
In a context of geopolitical challenges and structural changes, business leaders and citizens must seize the opportunities offered by globalization, artificial intelligence, demographic shifts, and progress in sustainability. At the conference, Daniel Lacalle will discuss global trends, the outlook for the national and European economies, challenges and opportunities; he will explain why many of the uncertainties we see in the economy are not actually uncertainties; and he will offer ideas and proposals for navigating the environment by capitalizing on global growth.
President and CEO of ALPHA STRATEGY CONSULTING
Daniel Lacalle (Madrid, 1967) holds a Ph.D. in Economics and a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and Business Administration; he is a Certified International Investment Analyst (CIIA) (Certified International Investment Analyst), and holds a Master’s degree in Economic Research (UCV) and a postgraduate degree (PDD) from IESE (University of Navarra). He is a professor of Global Economics and Finance, as well as an investment fund manager.
On January 30, 2018, Daniel Lacalle was mentioned in the U.S. Congress by Congressman Joe Wilson of South Carolina, who cited his article “Do Not Forget Cuba.”
He is also the author of several bestsellers translated into English, Chinese, and Portuguese, which have sold more than 200,000 copies in total. Available in all bookstores, on Amazon, and at Planeta de Libros.
He writes a weekly column for El Español and is a regular contributor to CNBC, Fox News (Making Money), Bloomberg, NTD USA, Hedge Eye, Mises Wire, Real Vision, Forbes, CGTN America, Zero Hedge, BBN Times, Talk Markets, Seeking Alpha, Cato, and The Wall Street Journal.
He is currently a professor at the Instituto de Empresa (Global Economics and Monetary Policy) and the Instituto de Estudios Bursátiles. He taught at the AFI School (2012, 2016), the UNED MEMFI master’s program (2013, 2014, and 2016), and delivered end-of-semester lectures as a guest of Professor Daniel Beunza at the London School of Economics (summer 2013, 2014, and 2015).
A break in the conference programme designed to take a pause, connect with fellow delegates and explore the Exhibition area.
“If you teach a child the drive, you can also teach them determination. Determination can be cultivated.”
A talk that will reveal the tools Toni Nadal considers essential for improving personal and professional development, based on character building, discipline, and high standards rather than just technique.
Drawing on his experience coaching Rafa Nadal, the author argues that emotional strength, humility, and hard work enable one to overcome adversity and reach one’s full potential in any field.
Sports Director at the RAFA NADAL ACADEMY and sports coach
Toni Nadal is a Spanish tennis coach best known for having served, for 27 years, as the coach of professional tennis player Rafa Nadal, with whom he has amassed one of the most successful track records in the history of the international tennis circuit.
He describes himself as a “coach,” as he has always believed that three aspects are essential in the development of any athlete: technical training, character building, and values education.
He has received several awards, including the Jaime II Award for his work as a coach, educator, trainer, and inspiration behind Rafa Nadal’s successes in 2008, and the Community of Madrid’s Seven Stars Award in the category of promoting sports values.
Currently, he balances his role as sports director of the Rafa Nadal Academy with his work as a speaker, delivering talks aimed at sports coaches, young people, and companies, in which he addresses topics such as managing adversity, simplicity, self-discipline, respect, commitment, and improvement.
Brief synopsis
Secretary General at European Council of Shopping Places (ECSP)
Julien Bouyeron is Secretary General of the European Council of Shopping Places (ECSP), with over a decade of experience in public affairs in Brussels, working closely with European Union institutions and lawmakers. Before joining the ECSP, he served as Director of European Affairs at the European DIY Retail Association (EDRA), where he led the association’s representation before the EU for five years. Previously, he held positions as Senior Policy Advisor at the French Retail Federation and as Project Manager at EuroCommerce.
Carrefour Property and Carmila mark a new milestone in their longstanding partnership with the presentation of their first joint development of a major retail destination: the new Terrassa Project.
The two real estate companies are joining forces to transform and expand this prominent asset in Vallès Occidental. An ambitious 60,000 m² GLA retail destination that will be reimagined to become a fashion-forward, sustainable and connected hub, designed to appeal to high-potential consumers in an area with low retail density.
Ten years after the success of FAN Mallorca, both companies are joining forces once again in their first major co-development to create a leading retail destination.
Time dedicated to exploring the Exhibition, holding business meetings and networking with industry professionals.
A moment cherished by all to take a break, recharge, and continue sharing experiences with colleagues in a relaxed atmosphere.
This panel discussion will explore the transformations shaping the retail sector — from expansion and digitalisation to product personalisation and the evolution of physical spaces.
What decisions drive successful projects? How do you manage growth? When is the right time to observe, when is it time to scale, and when should you ultimately consider selling?
Our panellists will share their experiences, insights and perspectives, offering a closer look at a real success story: a personal journey, a life-changing project, and, above all, what happens behind the scenes, beyond the spotlight.
Because there is always more to discover beyond the stage. As the saying goes, “The mind is like a parachute — it only works when it is open.”
This is a conversation designed to open minds, challenge perspectives and discover what it really takes to turn an ambitious vision into a success story.
Artificial Intelligence is already transforming the way shopping centres are managed. The challenge is no longer to discover what AI can do, but to turn its potential into tangible results.
Inês Drummond Borges will open the session by sharing experiences and use cases developed by Sonae Sierra, showcasing how AI is moving from theory to practice: from automated data capture and intelligent footfall measurement to predictive, generative and agentic AI solutions that help anticipate trends, streamline processes and enhance decision-making across leasing, marketing and operations.
Building on this experience, other industry professionals will join Inês for an open conversation about the present and near future of AI in the sector: which solutions are already delivering tangible impact, where the main barriers to implementation remain and, above all, what decisions owners and managers need to make today to harness this transformation and keep their assets at the forefront of the industry.
From talking about AI to making it happen: experiences, results and decisions shaping the next generation of shopping centres.
A grand finale and conclusion to the activities that have been taking place throughout the day at the conference venue.
A pleasant and relaxed networking event to be held on a spacious terrace with spectacular views of the Bay of Palma.
A networking cocktail reception in an ideal setting to enjoy the Mediterranean sun and breeze.
Badges are emailed to attendees a few days before the event. Bringing a printed badge ensures a smoother entry process for all attendees and helps prevent crowding.
Pick up your welcome pack and credentials.
The 2026 AECC Awards Jury, composed of professionals with diverse backgrounds and proven track records in the shopping center and retail park sector, presents the nominees participating in this year’s competition.
War, outlawed by the UN Charter, has once again taken center stage in the world order that began to take shape twelve years ago on the Crimean Peninsula. However, the resurgence of armed conflict has its own distinct characteristics, shaped by advances in technology and society. It is no longer ideology that is at stake, as was the case for most of the 20th century. Nor is it national interests, as was often the case in the 19th century. Neither Russia nor Ukraine, nor the U.S. nor Iran, benefits from the conflicts being waged in their name and at their expense. War is returning to our lives, but it is no longer the continuation of politics by other means as defined by Clausewitz; rather, it serves the ambition of warlords not unlike those described by Machiavelli five hundred years ago.
Driven by unscrupulous leaders, the pendulum that governs humanity’s fate is swinging toward the dark side. History teaches us that only the disasters of a great war have been capable of reversing this movement. Is that the fate that awaits us, or are there other dynamics that might save us from ourselves?
Admiral of the Spanish Navy
Admiral Rodríguez Garat served in the Navy for 47 years, 24 of which were spent in shipboard assignments.
From his naval career, he particularly recalls the nine commands of ships or collective units of the Navy, NATO, and the European Union that he had the privilege of holding, and, most notably, the multinational operations in the Black Sea and the Somali Basin.
He is a communications specialist and holds a General Staff Diploma from the United Kingdom, where he earned a Master’s degree in Defense Studies with distinction from the University of London.
He holds the Grand Cross of Naval Merit, the Royal and Military Order of Saint Hermenegildo, and the Civil Guard, in addition to eleven other national and foreign military decorations.
After an impeccable career in the Navy, retired Admiral Juan Rodríguez Garat is now a renowned defense analyst and devotes much of his time to public outreach. In his book *Drums of War*, he offers an overview of the turbulent global geopolitical landscape, a perspective that has earned him a place on talk shows and opinion programs across various media outlets.
A break in the conference schedule to catch your breath, chat with other attendees, and visit the trade show.
We are witnessing a profound shift in social dynamics on a global scale, and Spain is no exception. In this context of uncertainty, the commercial real estate sector represents a space of strength and stability. Yet its strength has never been purely economic: it has been at the forefront of employment and talent retention policies, has innovated in the ways it builds strong ties with local communities, becoming a key pillar of their social fabric, and has embraced an increasingly strong commitment to social and environmental responsibility.
At a time of “Retail in Motion”, and from a perspective that brings together sociology, analysis and business, Alejandra Nuño explores the key elements of the new social narrative: What kind of narrative will help attract and retain talent? What new codes will shape emerging leisure and experiential formats? And what will the new social role of shopping centres be in strengthening their connection with their communities and helping shape the communities of the future?
A practical perspective that will explore how new channels, artificial intelligence and technology can be harnessed to achieve these goals, turning social insight into new capabilities for engagement, innovation and anticipation.
The future of retail calls for courage: innovating in business, putting people at the heart of the sector, strengthening its commitment to its communities and, through them, helping shape the future of society.
Manuel Muñiz is the International Rector of IE University in Madrid and a professor of international relations. As International Rector of IE, he contributes to the development and implementation of the strategy for this academic institution, which has over 10,000 students, a large faculty, and a total of more than 70,000 alumni. He currently also serves as Chairman of the Board of Directors of IE New York College.
Dr. Muñiz served as Dean of the IE School of Political Science, Economics, and Global Affairs from 2017 to 2024. From June 2023 to January 2025, Dr. Muñiz served as President of the Association of Schools of International Affairs (APSIA), the organization that brings together the world’s most renowned schools of diplomacy and public policy. That same year, he was named a Senior Fellow at Brookings.
From January 2020 to July 2021, he served as Secretary of State for Spain Global at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Union, and Cooperation.
His work has been recognized with various awards and fellowships, including the Grand Cross of the Spanish Order of Civil Merit, the David Rockefeller Fellowship from the Trilateral Commission, the 2017 Munich Young Leader Fellowship from the Körber Stiftung, the Millennium Fellowship from the Atlantic Council, and the Eisenhower Fellowship.
Dr. Muñiz is a member of the Advisory Committee of the Club de Madrid, a Trustee of the Ortega-Marañón Foundation, a member of the European Council on Foreign Relations, and a full member of the Royal European Academy of Doctors.
Brief Synopsis
Building Destinations: Placemaking as a Driver for the New Retail. The VIA Outlets Case
Can an outlet become a driver of local development?
VIA Outlets has been demonstrating that it can for years. David Kervyn de Lettenhove (Regional Business Director, VIA Outlets Iberia) and Jorge Sánchez Mera (Head of Leasing, VIA Outlets) share their placemaking vision, which has transformed their centres into destinations with a strong identity that go beyond traditional retail.
The conversation explores three key areas:
1. Investment strategy and the 3R methodology
Remodeling, Remarketing and Releasing — a methodology that transforms existing assets into benchmarks within their respective markets.
2. Integration with the surrounding area
VIA Outlets’ commitment to becoming genuinely integrated into their local surroundings and generating a tangible social and environmental impact.
3. Synergy with the city model
How each centre develops a unique proposition that complements the offering of the city in which it operates: Sevilla Fashion Outlet as the metropolitan area’s fashion hub, Mallorca Fashion Outlet as a leading shopping and lifestyle destination in the Mediterranean, and Alicante Fashion Outlet as a driver of premium shopping tourism in the Levante region.
Time to visit the trade show, hold business meetings, and network.
A moment cherished by all to take a break, recharge, and continue sharing experiences with colleagues in a relaxed atmosphere.
Time to visit the trade show, hold business meetings, and network.
A celebration that serves as the culmination of the conference, which each year stands as the premier event for Spain’s shopping center and retail park industry.
Sponsored by:
Venue:
Son Termes Estate. Highway from Palmanyola to S'Esglaieta, km 1.5, Bunyola 07193 – Mallorca
The industry’s recognition of the best projects and initiatives carried out over the past few months. The members of the 2026 AECC Awards Jury will announce the winners in each of the competition’s categories.
Likewise, the AECC Executive Committee will present special awards recognizing the professional career of an industry figure and the historical significance of a shopping center or retail park.
The day concludes with a relaxed social gathering, featuring music and drinks—an ideal setting to continue networking and sharing experiences with fellow delegates in an informal and enjoyable atmosphere.
The final day of the conference, serving as a grand finale, is intended as a time to socialize and get to know other attendees before everyone returns home.
Thus, we dedicate the morning to visiting some of the city’s shopping centers and malls as a group, accompanied by their respective management teams, or, alternatively, we offer the opportunity to participate in a sports activity that provides another chance to meet with colleagues in a relaxed atmosphere.
Discover some of the most outstanding shopping centres in Palma de Mallorca.
During each visit, the group will be accompanied by members of the management team of each shopping centre, who will provide first-hand insight into their operations and key features.
The technical tour will run from 9:45 a.m. to 2:50 p.m., with the group scheduled to arrive at the airport at that time.
Departure from the Palma de Mallorca Convention Centre at 9:45 a.m.
The final day of the conference, serving as a fitting conclusion, is intended as a time to socialize and get to know other attendees before everyone returns home.
Thus, we dedicate the morning to visiting some of the city’s shopping centers and malls as a group, accompanied by their respective management teams, or, alternatively, we offer the opportunity to participate in a sports activity that provides another chance to meet with colleagues in a relaxed atmosphere.
Carrer del Cardenal Rossell, s/n, Platja de Palma i Pla de Sant Jordi, 07007 Palma, Illes Balears.
Journalist and news anchor. He currently directs and anchors "Antena 3 Noticias," where he has been in charge of the evening newscast since 2016. Recipient of the ONDAS Award and the IRIS Award from the Spanish Academy of Television Arts and Sciences for Best Television News Anchor
Vicente has worked for the leading national television networks. He began his career at Cadena SER, contributing to the programs Hora 25 and Hoy por Hoy; in the sports department at TVE; and at Telemadrid, where he was part of the founding team of news services as national news editor. In 1994, he was hired by Telecinco as head of National News and tasked with leading the newsroom’s digitization process—the first of its kind at a television station in Spain. Together with Ana Blanco, he moderated the two four-way debates among the candidates for the presidency of the Government in 2015 and 2016, and two more in 2019. He specializes in national political news, although he has also covered, among other international events, every U.S. presidential election since 1992.
Manuel Muñiz is the International Rector of IE University in Madrid and a professor of international relations. As International Rector of IE, he contributes to the development and implementation of the strategy for this academic institution, which has more than 10,000 students, a large faculty, and a total of over 70,000 alumni. He currently also serves as Chairman of the Board of Directors of IE New York College.
Dr. Muñiz served as Dean of the IE School of Political Science, Economics, and Global Affairs from 2017 to 2024. From June 2023 to January 2025, Dr. Muñiz served as President of the Association of Schools of International Affairs (APSIA), the organization that brings together the world’s most renowned schools of diplomacy and public policy. That same year, he was named a Senior Fellow at Brookings.
From January 2020 to July 2021, he served as Secretary of State for Spain Global at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Union, and Cooperation.
His work has been recognized with various awards and fellowships, including the Grand Cross of the Spanish Order of Civil Merit, the David Rockefeller Fellowship from the Trilateral Commission, the 2017 Munich Young Leader Fellowship from the Körber Stiftung, the Millennium Fellowship from the Atlantic Council, and the Eisenhower Fellowship.
Dr. Muñiz is a member of the Advisory Committee of the Club of Madrid, a Trustee of the Ortega-Marañón Foundation, a member of the European Council on Foreign Relations, and a full member of the Royal European Academy of Doctors.
Brief Synopsis
The Congress also offers a great opportunity to stay active, enjoy a day of sport and connect with fellow professionals at the traditional AECC Padel Tournament. Combining sport, camaraderie and professional networking, the tournament is set to be the perfect way to round off the Congress.
Join the AECC’s sporting initiative!
