Retail Innovation Challenge

The Retail Innovation Challenge is an international project that brings together students from different countries and academic disciplines to address real-world challenges within the retail industry. The project is organized as a
Blended Intensive Program (BIP), combining online modules before and after a one-week intensive workshop where students meet physically.
During the workshop, students collaborate in international and cross-disciplinary teams to develop innovative solutions to current retail challenges – such as digital transformation, sustainability, and changing consumer behaviour.
Methodologically, students will work with Design Thinking and explore a variety of creativity techniques to support ideation and problem-solving processes. The aim is to strengthen their ability to understand and address complex challenges in a global retail context and to develop creative and viable solutions with real impact.

The student will have:
• Deep understanding of innovation principles and processes in both theory and practice, with particular focus on Design Thinking as a methodological framework.
• Insights into current retail trends and challenges, including digitalization, sustainability, and changing consumer behaviour.
• Understanding of how interdisciplinar The student will be able to:
• Apply theoretical knowledge of innovation and entrepreneurship to real-world retail challenges using Design Thinking methods.
• Implement innovation strategies that address sustainability and evolving consumer needs.
• Communicate effectively and professionally within cross-cultural and cross-disciplinary teams The student will be able to:
• Analyze and address complex challenges in the retail industry from a global perspective.
• Develop and present innovative solutions that reflect a holistic understanding of retail’s future opportunities and challenges.
• Work independently and collaboratively in international innovation processes, bridging theory and practice