399. Inside Retail’s Big Show: Innovation, AI and what’s coming next
Retail Gets Real · with Susan Newman, Jill Dvorak, Scot Case · December 18, 2025 · 16 min
Summary
This episode provides a comprehensive preview of NRF 2026, highlighting key themes like "the next now" for retail and the significant role of AI in shaping the industry. Ecommerce operators will gain insights into upcoming innovations, networking opportunities, and practical tips for maximizing their experience at this pivotal retail event. It emphasizes how to leverage the NRF Expo to discover new technologies and strategies to drive their businesses forward.
Key takeaways
Plan your NRF 2026 agenda around AI-focused content and keynotes to understand emerging technological impacts on retail.
Explore NRF Rev to understand circular economy principles and integrate sustainable practices into your ecommerce operations.
Utilize the networking opportunities at NRF to connect with industry leaders and discover potential partnerships.
Identify exhibitors at the NRF Expo showcasing solutions relevant to your ecommerce platform or operational challenges.
Leverage NRF's resources, including membership and the NRF Foundation, for continuous learning and advocacy in the retail space.
Retail’s Big Show has long been the industry’s can’t-miss gathering.In this episode of Retail Gets Real, we get an inside look at what’s ahead for NRF 2026, straight from the leaders who bring the event to life. We’re joined by Susan Newman, senior vice president of event strategy at the National Retail Federation; Jill Dvorak, senior vice president of content; and Scot Case, vice president of corporate social responsibility and sustainability and executive director of NRF’s Center for Retail Sustainability, to preview what attendees can expect at the retail industry’s most influential event.(00:00:00) What “The next now” means for retail(00:04:42) Inside the NRF Expo experience(00:07:03) Keynotes, AI and must-see content(00:10:20) Networking, celebrations, and shared experiences(00:11:29) Introducing NRF Rev and the circular economy(00:13:27) Insider tips for navigating Retail’s Big ShowThe National Retail Federation is the world’s largest retail trade association.Every day, we passionately stand up for the people, policies and ideas that help retail succeed.Resources:• Get ready for Retail’s Big Show in NYC• Learn more about the all new NRF Rev• Become an NRF member and join the world’s largest retail trade association• Learn about our retail education platform, NRF Foundation, at nrffoundation.org• Learn about retail advocacy at <a href="https://nrf.com/advocacy" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="
