• * In recognition of lifetime contributions and sustainable leadership within the global retail and consumer ecosystem
  
  
• The event was held in collaboration with Hamat , reaffirming both parties' shared commitment to achieving long-term value and leadership excellence in the sector.
  

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Feb. 12, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --

Riyadh hosted the annual RLC Honors Gala Dinner on the evening of February 3rd, jointly organized by RLC Global Forum and Hamat . The event brought together leading figures from the global retail, luxury, and consumer sectors for an elegant evening celebrating excellence , leadership, and lasting impact .

The RLC Honors Awards ceremony, held on the sidelines of the 2026 RLC Global Forum , was an occasion to recognize individuals whose career paths have contributed to reshaping businesses, industries, and markets over the long term. More than just a celebration of success, these awards reflect RLC's belief that leadership is measured by continuity, accountability, the ability to foster relevance to the public or market, and resilience in the face of change .

The 2026 RLC Awards ceremony was held in a sophisticated and intimate setting in Riyadh, in partnership with Hamat , a long-standing supporter of the RLC Global Forum and its community. Hamat 's continued involvement in organizing this event underscores both parties' commitment to creating sustainable value and fostering the growth, prosperity, and development of the retail and consumer sectors .

This year’s ceremony celebrated two exceptional figures who have left a clear and lasting mark on the retail sector at both the global and regional levels .

Marco Bizzarri , the entrepreneur and investor who previously served as CEO of Gucci , has won the Lifetime Achievement Award for Excellence in Luxury Retail . Bizzarri is considered one of the most influential leaders in the contemporary luxury sector , having successfully transformed Gucci into a global cultural force and redefined the concept of creative leadership , brand relevance, and long-term value .

Ingie Chalhoub , CEO and Managing Director of Etoile Group , received the Lifetime Achievement Award for Pioneering Women's Leadership in Retail . A key player in the development of the luxury retail sector in the Middle East, Chalhoub has been instrumental in shaping the region's high -end retail ecosystem, alongside her ongoing efforts to empower women and their leadership in the sector .

In his address at the event, Panos Linardos , Chairman of the RLC Global Forum , emphasized the importance of celebrating consistent leadership performance and the depth of contributions throughout a career. Hamat leaders , in turn , stressed the significance of platforms that connect and adapt global retail best practices and expertise to the regional level, highlighting the growing role of Saudi Arabia in shaping global retail trends and developments .

In conclusion, both the RLC Global Forum and Hamat reaffirmed their shared goal of honoring sustainable leadership, supporting effective global exchange of experiences , and contributing to the development of a more resilient, adaptable, and future - oriented retail sector .

Contacts:
Sudarshan Singh
ssingh@hamat.sa

You can view the image attached to this press release via the following link:
http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/58c15ee5-2a6a-47b1-b6ba-3adbc9ba299f