Retail’s Big Show is one of the biggest events of the year for retailers in the USA. It is an opportunity to build connections and learn about new tools and market trends. One of the great themes of this year’s exhibition will be technology in the retail industry and we think retailers have a lot to win by taking advantage of the new tools on the market. In this article, we gathered what we think will be the most interesting presentations to attend this year and what to prepare to make the most of your experience.
What to attend
1. Expo tours
Sunday, January 12
10:15am – 12:15pm
The expo tour takes you on a 2-hour journey to discover 8 companies that developed technology products for retailers. Each tour is a guided walking tour where you will have the opportunity to network and learn about how to take advantage of new technologies designed for the retail industry. Note that to attend these tours you will need to register in advance.
Tour topics this year will include subjects such as : Consumer engagement through generative AI, Future Tech, Intelligent Retail: Innovation, Ecommerce and Best Practices, the Connected Store Journey and more.
2. Leaders Talk
In the same theme, this year the leaders’ talk will revolve around how to elevate the customer experience, market trends and of course, technology. These topics will be available to all registrants of the general exhibition.
Retail Store tour
Saturday, January 11
10:00 am – 2:00 pm and 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Join expert-led walking tours of innovative, cutting-edge stores. These guided experiences showcase the latest in technology, store design, employee training, and industry best practices. Attendees gain insider knowledge, connect with peers, and stay at the forefront of retail trends.
NRF chairman: Game-changing times for the retail industry
Sunday, January 12
8:30am – 9:15am
NRF Chairman and President and CEO of Walmart U.S., John Furner, welcomes Big Show attendees and provides a look at the state of the retail industry. What we’re living through now aren’t just changes, they’re a revolution, and AI in particular is changing how business gets done. Hear John discuss this in-depth with tech industry leader Azita Martin from NVIDIA, which, like Walmart, is at the forefront of how retailers are using AI to elevate customer experiences, empower employees, and drive greater operational efficiencies.
What to prepare
In order to make the most of this exhibition, make sure to plan meetings in advance.
- Advertise your presence on social media : It will help you grow your impressions and contacts list as well as help you get in touch with professionals you want to meet in-person. Linkedin is a great place to advertise activities you attend as you grow your network.
- Book your meetings in the weeks before the event.
- Set time aside to visit meaningful presentations.
- Plan your objectives and budget ahead.
- Don’t forget the after-show: Prepare to activate your new connections by having a clear reach-out plan.
- Plan the after-hour events you wish to attend in advance.
We hope this article helped you prepare key items to fully enjoy this year’s event and wish all exhibitors a great show filled with opportunities and nice encounters.
Meet us at booth 718 Jan 12-14
If you wish to learn how to leverage omnichannel clienteling solutions for your retail brand, don’t hesitate to book a meeting with us here!