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IGDS connects, informs and supports leading department stores worldwide. We are the world's largest department store association.

Key Facts about the Department Store Sector

# of visitors per year

> 1bn

# global sales

~ US$120bn

# of stores worldwide

2.500

# of FTE (incl. concession)

600.000

17th World Department Store Summit 2026 in Mexico City

The latest IGDS WDSS was conducted on 19th-20th May 2026 in Mexico City. Co-organised by IGDS & Liverpool, the Summit will gave unique insights into recent retail initiatives, business success stories, and key developments in department stores and related industries.

IGDS WDSS is the world's largest and leading discussion platform for department store CEOs, senior executives, stakeholders, and business partners from all continents. 

IGDS WDSS 2026 Website

 

GDI Impact Leadership Programme 2026

Developing the Next C-Suite Leaders

The Gottlieb Duttweiler Institute (GDI) has the pleasure of launching and announcing the 3rd GDI Impact Leadership Programme (ILP), developed in cooperation with IGDS. The programme, tailored specifically for department store executives, addresses the unique challenges and complexities of the retail industry.

The GDI ILP 2026 is scheduled from 20th to 23rd April 2026 in Zurich, Switzerland. Registrations will open soon. 

GDI Impact Leadership Programme

IGDS Intercontinental Network

IGDS WDSS Awards

During our international open-enrolment event, we celebrate the best achievements and performances by department stores and their personnel across the world.

The IGDS WDSS Awards are the reference and benchmark for the retail industry.

Discover our ten Awards


 

Our Global Events

The IGDS World Department Store Summit  (IGDS WDSS) provides a unique platform for department stores CEOs, senior executives and major stakeholders to meet and exchange ideas.

The 17th IGDS WDSS was staged on 19-20 May 2026 in Mexico City, Mexico.

IGDS Global Events