Design, future consumer landscapes focus of upcoming talk

KALAMAZOO, Mich—"The Future Consumer Landscape: The New Metrics of Success" will be the topic of discussion when futurist Ibrahim Ibrahim visits Western Michigan University Thursday, March 2, to spark a conversation on design that generates social and cultural engagement.

Speaking at 3 p.m. in 105-106 Bernhard Center, Ibrahim will explore how innovation can be ignited through placemaking that fosters "future-ready" ways for people to interact.

Ibrahim is the managing director of Portland Design. Based in London, Portland is part of the global Perkins + Will architecture and design network. He is currently working with WMU on the master planning process, studying the feasibility of integrating future renovation and new construction projects using the approach his firm uses in retail design. The approach can be applied to any consumer experience in any brand environment that aims to encourage customer engagement and loyalty.

Portland's understanding of consumers' relationship with brands and their engagement with branded physical and digital environments lies at the heart of their work. This understanding is built through research and insights on the issues that drive future customer expectations. Portland is a leading international branding and retail design business and works on a broad range of projects including retail, consumer brands, shopping centers, airports, train stations, mixed use developments and urban regeneration.

Established in 1987 and with offices in London, Dubai and Istanbul, Portland is an award-winning design consultancy specializing in the retail, leisure and travel sectors.

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