About AIR

AIR is an independent, national sector support body open to all those who wish to support the growth of international retail in the UK.

Our purpose is to create a positive profile for the international retail sector and support its growth through policy change, research and innovation.

Currently AIR is running three Campaigns

On behalf of our supporters, AIR will undertake the following activities:

  • Raising the profile of the sector within government and the wider economy.
  • Representing the sector and its specific issues in government and industry forums.
  • Prompting positive policy changes that will enhance international retail sales.
  • Responding to challenges to minimise negative impacts on the sector.
  • Undertaking research to support campaigns and enhance sales.

Other benefits for our supporters:

  • Opportunities to contribute to AIR’s aims and specific programmes.
  • Data and information on international retail.
  • Networking events with supporters, policy makers and influencers.

Our Team

Chair - Dee Corsi

Dee is Chief Executive of New West End Company, the Business Improvement District for London's Oxford Street, Regent Street, Bond Street and East Mayfair.
 
New West End Company represents over 600 retail, hospitality, leisure, cultural and property businesses in the West End where in 2019 over 65% of all UK tax-free shopping took place.
 

 

Chief Executive - Paul Barnes

Paul has over 25 years’ experience advising clients at board level on public affairs and strategic reputation management, with a focus on property and retail. He is an expert in helping to influence government thinking and in creating coalitions to campaign for policy change.

 

Director - Pete Bowyer

Pete is an experienced and entrepreneurial team leader with a demonstrated history of working in public affairs, media relations and sustainable communications. Skilled in Public Affairs, Political Communication, Politics, Policy Analysis, and Crisis Communications. Currently partner in a strategic communications consultancy, chair of two environmental NGOs and a Fellow of the RSA.

Executive - Elio Fang

Elio is responsible for supporting campaign strategy development and implementation.

 

Our Board

Fraser Brown

Retail Director

Heathrow

Sylvie Freund-Pickavance

Group Strategy and Business Development Director

Value Retail

Derrick Hardman

Managing Director

Global Blue

Seren Hirons

Head of Place

Cadogan 

Gordon Clark

Senior Director

Planet Payment

Nick Brooks-Sykes

Director of Tourism

Marketing Manchester

Dee Corsi

Chief Executive

New West End Company

Roddy Smith

Chief Executive

Essential Edinburgh

Steven Medway

Chief Executive

Knightsbridge Partnership

AIR Supporters

AIR’s supporters are drawn from all across Britain and include retailers, landlords, shopping districts, Business Improvement Districts and other businesses and organisations interested in the growth of retail, travel and tourism.

To explore more about the membership options of AIR and become a member, please contact Director Pete at pete@internationalretail.co.ck

Cadogan Logo
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Harrods Logo
New West End Company Logo
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Bicester Village Logo
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Selfridges and Co logo
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