The Eilat Mall and Chain Store Conference, now in its 17th year under the leadership of founder and chairman Dedi Rizal, continues to be a pivotal event in Israel's retail industry. This year's conference focused on the numerous challenges facing shopping malls and the retail sector, including the impacts of economic crises and the adaptation of shopping centers to an evolving digital landscape. A highlight of the conference was a panel featuring leading figures in the retail industry, including Eran Harel, CEO of Ariel Properties, alongside other senior executives. The panel delved into the challenges and opportunities within the transforming world of malls and retail. Eran Harel addressed decision-making under extreme conditions, analyzing choices made on October 7th, emerging market trends, the influence of technology on the shopping experience, and the adaptation of retail strategies to a hybrid digital and physical era. His insights underscored the importance of flexibility and continuous innovation for retailers striving to remain relevant to their customer base. Additionally, topics such as customer experience, market dynamics, and innovative planning in shopping complexes were discussed. The presence of top executives from retail chains and malls across the country underscored the conference's central role in the development of Israel's retail industry. Efrat Shabtai, Manager of Street Mall in Ramat Yishai, stated: "Each year, we attend the Shopping Malls and Retail Conference held in Eilat. The conference is not only an opportunity to learn about new challenges in the industry and gain tools and ideas to address them but also a place to deepen personal connections and build fruitful collaborations that will help us all navigate this challenging period." Zehava Shalom, Manager of the Weizmann Complex.