We developed a communication strategy for the HDE that takes the association out of traditional association communication and positions it as a formative voice in the socio-political discourse – visible at the interface of city, society and politics.

The centerpiece: the “Think and Act” series of events we designed – a discourse format that deliberately sets itself apart from the traditional political evening. Major areas of transformation such as new values, new transparency, new politics and new intelligence will be discussed in thematic clusters and charged by leading voices from various disciplines – including Sascha Lobo, Sir David Chipperfield and Harald Welzer. The dramaturgy follows a clear logic: keynote speech, moderated round tables, panel discussion, networking – a space in which business, politics and society come together as equals.

The result: the HDE gains intellectual acuity and political connectivity – and becomes a platform for future issues beyond traditional interest representation: with relevance for politics, visibility in the media and new radiance for retail as a shaping social force.