Date: Monday, 16 November 2026
Time: 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Venue: Xara Lodge, Rabat, Malta
Fee: Free for MBN Members | €47 (inclusive of VAT) for Non-Members
Malta’s supermarket and grocery retail sector is undergoing significant transformation, with new developments, continued market expansion and evolving consumer expectations reshaping the local retail landscape.
While this growth presents new opportunities, it also raises important questions around market saturation, labour shortages, rising operational costs and the long-term sustainability of the sector.
How are Malta’s leading retailers navigating these challenges? What can international retail trends tell us about the future of the local market?
Join us for an engaging panel discussion bringing together industry leaders to examine the trends, pressures and strategic considerations shaping Malta’s supermarket sector.
The Supermarket Boom: The drivers behind recent expansion, new development approvals and their implications for competition and market share.
Operational Pressures: Labour shortages, talent retention, rising wages and their impact on retail operations.
Consumer Trends & Sales Dynamics: Changing shopping habits, pricing pressures and the sustainability of continued sales growth.
Strategic Outlook: Recent mergers and acquisitions, evolving business models and the long-term outlook for Malta’s grocery sector.
The discussion will offer valuable perspectives for professionals across retail, finance, supply chain management, investment and advisory services.
Norman Aquilina, Executive Chairman, Quinco Holdings p.l.c.
Norman Aquilina has over three decades of experience in the FMCG, food distribution and beverage sectors. He is Executive Chairman of Quinco Holdings p.l.c., which encompasses the food importation, distribution and franchising operations of Quintano Foods Limited and Food Chain Limited.
Previously, he served as Group Chief Executive Officer of the Farsons Group from 2010 until June 2026. He is also a former President of the Malta Business Bureau and former Senior Vice-President of The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry.
Owen Micallef, Director, Lidl Malta
Owen Micallef leads Lidl Malta's strategic growth, operational excellence and sustainability initiatives across the Maltese Islands.
Having joined Lidl in 2016, he progressed through several operational leadership roles before being appointed Director in 2024. He brings over two decades of experience spanning retail, marketing and brand management, together with international operational experience in Germany and Italy.
David Tabone, CEO, The Convenience Shop (Holding) p.l.c. — MyConvenience and MySupermarket
David Tabone brings over 20 years of local and international leadership experience in the FMCG and hospitality sectors.
Since becoming CEO in January 2025, he has led the Group's strategic transformation, including the introduction of MyConvenience and MySupermarket, network expansion and digital innovation. His previous roles include CEO of Tryfon Tseriotis in Cyprus and senior commercial positions at Alf. Mizzi & Sons (Marketing) Group.
Gilbert Guillaumier, Partner, Transactions & Corporate Finance, EY Malta
Gilbert Guillaumier is a Strategy & Transactions Partner at EY Malta, specialising in corporate finance, transaction support, mergers and acquisitions, capital raising and strategic advisory services.
Having joined EY in 2002, he has supported clients across multiple industries and international markets. He also leads the firm's consumer retail research initiatives.
Networking drinks and refreshments will be served before and after the panel discussion, providing an opportunity to connect with fellow MBN members, business leaders and industry professionals.
We look forward to welcoming you for an insightful evening of discussion and networking.
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