BRIEF

SEC Newgate Middle East has supported the Retail Leaders Circle (RLC) since 2023, leading communications for four editions of the platform’s flagship annual gathering in Riyadh. Originally focused on the MENA region, the Forum underwent a major transformation in 2025, evolving into the RLC Global Forum, a more internationally focused platform reflecting Saudi Arabia’s growing role as a global retail and business hub.

SOLUTION

• Drafting, translating and distributing press releases on key campaign milestones across the GCC and internationally
• Securing strategic media interviews ahead of the event for RLC Chairman Panos Linardos (incl. in Al Bayan, CNN Business Arabic, Emirates News)
• Managing all on-ground media relations, coordinating over 40 interviews with high-profile outlets such as CNBC Arabia, Asharq News – Bloomberg, Arab News, and Asharq Al-Awsat
• Securing and coordinating on-ground interviews for RLC key partners.
• Positioning the rebrand story of the RLC Global Forum as a core media angle, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s leadership in global retail dialogue
• Supporting media partnership development with Arab News, Asharq, and Arabian Business, facilitating interviews and aligning on editorial planning
• Identifying and reaching out to top-tier international fashion and luxury brands, securing confirmed participation from Stefania Lazzaroni (Altagamma)
• Engaging directly with Forum partners’ communications teams, aligning messaging and facilitating coverage across corporate and sectoral media
• Providing full on-site support, media coordination and editorial handling during the event

OUTCOME

Expanded Global Impact in 2025:

• 1,040 total clippings (Sept 2024 – Feb 2026)
• PR Value:  USD 4,009,045
• 485 regional media hits | AVE: USD 2,071,795
• 555 international media hits | AVE: USD 1,937,250
• 5 high-profile pre-event interviews for Panos Linardos, 40+ on-ground interviews conducted during the Forum

Proven Track Record (Regional Coverage):

• 2025: 376 hits | AVE USD 1,839,387
• 2024: 182 hits | AVE USD 1,276,786
• 2023: 147 hits | AVE USD 556,549