Session Topics
In the Next Now, every facet of the global retail ecosystem is changing. It’s both exciting and exhausting. How can you achieve success in the present when you’re always chasing after what’s next? Stop. Breathe. It’s OK. NRF’s got you.
NRF 2026: Retail’s Big Show is full of practical learning sessions … from inspiring speakers and data-driven industry trends to strategies from the field and focused workshops. We’ve assembled all the expert insights you need to confidently step into the Next Now.
The AI Stage provides a dynamic platform for industry peers to learn about the latest AI technologies, overcome challenges and forge new pathways to innovation. This collection of curated sessions is designed for retailers seeking actionable insights into how to integrate AI, agentic AI and similar technologies into their business strategies.
In the Next Now, consumer behavior is in constant motion — changing from one day to the next due to buying influences across the value chain. Your customers expect your business to be adaptable and flex to meet their needs. At NRF 2026, you’ll find a host of top-notch sessions designed to help you elevate the customer experience online, in-store and at every touchpoint.
Creating immersive experiences for in-store customers
Creative ideas for solidifying customer loyalty
Simplifying and elevating online shopping
Moving successfully into the Next Now requires retailers to ramp up their internal operations just as effectively as their customer-facing processes. NRF 2026 features expert speakers skilled at adapting business operations to drive efficiency while delivering on customer satisfaction.
Embracing sustainability goals through upcycling and reverse logistics
Exploring how autonomous AI agents optimize retail operations
Building cross-functional process improvements
Retailers of all sizes are rethinking their approach to everything from marketing to sales and merchandising to hiring. In the Next Now, is your business model agile enough to move in a way that advances your profitability and growth? Learn how other businesses are adapting their models for the future at NRF 2026.
How retailers can take advantage of today’s array of payment models
Finding competitive advantage in a crowded ecommerce space
Building a business based on agility
Delivering next-level customer experiences requires associates with the knowledge and support they need to succeed. At NRF 2026, you’ll find insights for retaining and growing your most important asset with a winning company culture.
How retailers can retain and grow their in-store associates
How to balance your organization’s executive voices
Preserving company culture in the face of changing policy
In the Next Now, one thing is certain … technology is changing and expanding at mind-boggling speed. With AI impacting everything across the retail ecosystem, retailers need to understand the latest innovations and prepare for what’s next. Join us at NRF 2026 to hear what’s on the cutting edge across the retail enterprise.
Understanding how AI is revolutionizing the way consumers find, try and buy products
Ethical AI practices, data security and responsible AI deployment in retail
Harnessing the power of AI-driven customer personalization and engagement
Successful retailers subscribe to a culture of leadership that permeates every level. As business complexities increasingly grow in our global retail industry, effective leadership skills become more important than ever. At NRF 2026, explore sessions designed to educate and inspire retail leaders as they enter the Next Now.
Navigating the operational pressures of increasing retail competition
Leading with empathy and vision
Forward-looking impacts of changing policies
