The best of NRF Retail’s BIG Show 2019

An array of the best and brightest leaders from retail, technology and business will address the urgency of strategic business transformation, uniting the retail industry and unlocking its full impact as more than 37,000 attendees from nearly 100 countries come together in New York City in January at NRF 2019: Retail’s Big Show.

“Retail is a dynamic industry, with a far-reaching impact on the global economy and the lives of citizens around the world,” NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay said. “Our speakers will share their unique perspectives on retail, providing insights on how to create a culture of collaboration, adapt to shifting consumer tastes and redefine business models to shape the future of the industry.”

On Sunday, the first dayt, the show floor was abuzz with retail industry professionals asking the question “What’s next?” Tech giants including Samsung, Google, Microsoft and others showcased new retail technologies including data powered customer experience programs, cloud-based data storage, AI retail solutions, intelligent supply chain options and more.

E-commerce heavyweights Amazon and Alibaba Group were also in attendance. Amazon Web Services invited attendees inside a replica of its Boundless Store concept. Alibaba offered a glimpse at its supermarket chain Hema under the banner Freshippo. AI-driven robot waiters delivered trays of “food” to curious observers, giving a glimpse at the future of dining services.

Headline speakers of the day included Diane Dietz, chief executive officer, Rodan & Fields, who appeared on a panel about pay quality; Jeremy King, chief technology officer, Walmart who spoke about Walmart’s expansion through its grocery delivery service; Rodney Mullen, chief executive officer, Kroger and; Chris Baldwin, chairman, president and chief executive officer, BJ’s Wholesale Club.

During the second day, there was a chat between Target chief executive officer Brian Cornell and NRF’s president and chief executive officer, Matthew Shay and; a session with Alibaba Group president Michael Evans.

“Brand Builders: Balancing Business and Creativity to Make a Cultural Connection” was packed with attendees clamoring to see TV stars Chip & Joanna Gaines and talent manager Scooter Braun.

On Tuesday, the show’s final day, opened with Macy’s Chairman and CEO Jeff Gennette that leading a discussion with b8ta CEO and Co-Founder Vibhu Norby, Marxent Founder and CEO Beck Besecker, and Macy’s Brand Experience Officer, Rachel Shechtman, in a keynote panel “Reimagining the customer journey through the lens of experience”.

Immediately following, JD.com Global Business Development Head for JD Fashion Harlan Bratcher and Deloitte Vice Chairman and U.S. Leader of Retail, Wholesale and Distribution Practice Rod Sides spoke in the session titled “Future now: How China today foreshadows shopping and consumerism of tomorrow.”

Later in the afternoon, Brandless CEO and Co-Founder Tina Sharkey, Warby Parker Co-Founder and Co-CEO Neil Blumenthal, and Boston Consulting Group Partner and Managing Director Nicholas Goad participated in a keynote session “Retail reinvention: Disrupt yourself or be disrupted,” exploring maturing new commerce models and their ability to disrupt themselves and remain at the top of their game.

Source: Licence Global.com