NRF chairman’s opening and welcome: Game-changing times for the retail industryNRF 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. Together, they’ll explore how AI is enabling smarter, more agile operations and redefining what’s possible for consumers and businesses alike.
Beyond heritage: CEO Josh Schulman’s vision for Burberry’s continued growth in a dynamic consumer market, hosted by Pete NordstromJoin Pete Nordstrom, president of Nordstrom, as he sits down with Joshua Schulman, chief executive officer of Burberry, for a live recording of Nordstrom’s podcast, The Nordy Pod. The two retail leaders will delve into Josh's remarkable career, his vision for Burberry's future, and his perspective on the evolving retail landscape. They'll also discuss the future of luxury retail, the importance of adaptability in today’s competitive market, and the leadership skills needed to steer a brand through periods of transformation. Don't miss this candid conversation for exclusive insights into the evolution of Burberry and the retail industry at large.
Three brands, one growth strategy: The power of Macy’s, Inc.’s bold new chapterAcross its portfolio of iconic nameplates: Macy’s, Bloomingdale’s, and Bluemercury, Macy’s, Inc. is challenging the status quo, fundamentally repositioning the company, and connecting with consumers across the value spectrum. Join Tony Spring, Chairman and CEO of Macy’s, Inc.; Olivier Bron, CEO of Bloomingdale’s; and Maly Bernstein, CEO of Bluemercury, for a lively discussion moderated by Courtney Reagan, retail reporter for CNBC. Nearly one year into the execution of the company’s new growth strategy, A Bold New Chapter, these leaders will explore how each of the three nameplates is working to build stronger customer relationships through innovative solutions, data-driven insights, brand-building moments, and a breadth of merchandise offerings and experiences. This conversation will showcase how Macy’s, Inc. is evolving to meet the increasing demands of today’s consumers while shaping a future that is both inspiring and enduring.
Lacing up for success: Transforming retail experiences and deepening customer relationships with Foot Locker CEO Mary DillonThe retail landscape is undergoing a rapid transformation, driven by evolving customer expectations and innovative technologies. Foot Locker is at the forefront of this change with its Lace Up Plan, a strategic initiative designed to expand sneaker culture, power up its portfolio, deepen customer relationships and build best-in-class omni capabilities. Join Mary Dillon, President and CEO of Foot Locker, and Bobby Stephens, Principal at Deloitte Consulting LLP, for a candid fireside chat where they’ll discuss some of the strategies driving Foot Locker’s transformation, including leveraging data-driven insights, implementing a loyalty program to enhance both digital and physical experiences, improving the overall customer and associate experience, and driving profitable growth through an inclusive and diverse global brand platform known as “Heart of Sneakers.”
A conversation with Doug Herrington, CEO, Worldwide Amazon StoresDoug Herrington, CEO of Worldwide Amazon Stores, will talk about how Amazon continues to evolve to meet the needs of customers. Herrington will share lessons he’s learned from Amazon’s successes and failures, how robots and automation are reshaping Amazon’s operations and improving employee safety, and how Amazon is approaching the game-changing opportunities created by generative AI.
The business of authenticity: Tracee Ellis Ross on building PATTERN Beauty and empowering identityIn this inspiring fireside chat, Tracee Ellis Ross, award-winning actress, producer, and CEO/founder of PATTERN Beauty, shares stories about how she created a multimillion-dollar global beauty brand that celebrates the richness of textured hair. Tracee will discuss her journey from Hollywood to entrepreneurship, highlighting the importance of representation and inclusivity in the beauty industry. Learn how she built PATTERN Beauty to empower individuals to embrace their natural hair with pride, while also fostering a deeper conversation about identity and self-acceptance. Tracee will offer insights on navigating the challenges of launching a brand, balancing creativity with business acumen, staying authentic in a crowded marketplace, and dispelling the myth that Black haircare is a niche market. This session will provide a unique perspective on what it means to redefine beauty standards and create a meaningful impact through purpose-driven leadership.
Attention Press & Media: No audio or video recording, or photography will be allowed in this session. Only note taking is permitted.
The Visionary 2025: A 40-year journey with Tommy Hilfiger and NRF President and CEO Matthew ShayTommy Hilfiger, a fashion icon and innovator, has revolutionized global retail through his pioneering spirit and commitment to inclusivity. From launching his brand in 1985 to becoming a distinguished leader in the fashion industry, Tommy has consistently pushed the boundaries of style. In this fireside chat, he will join NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay to recount his remarkable 40-year journey; from selling clothes out of the trunk of his car to establishing a world-renowned brand that masterfully balances heritage with creative agility and innovation. Gain insights into Tommy’s impact on the retail industry and his enduring legacy in blending classic American style with pop culture.
Stewardship in action: How CEO Corie Barry guides Best Buy with purpose and visionCorie Barry, CEO of Best Buy, is committed to surrounding herself with people she can learn from and focusing every day on leaving things better than she found them — including Best Buy. In a fast-paced retail environment, stewardship remains key to navigating change and creating long-term value for customers and communities. By embracing this approach, Corie leads Best Buy in being a purpose-driven company that makes a meaningful impact in a world that continues to change. Hear Corie explore these principles in a fireside chat with NRF President and CEO, Matthew Shay.
Reaching the new consumer: A conversation with Shopify President Harley Finkelstein, Favorite Daughter Co-founder Sara Foster and AG1 CEO Kat ColeFavorite Daughter was founded four years ago and has quickly become the clothing and lifestyle brand of the moment for both celebrities and fashion enthusiasts. The hypergrowth brand was co-founded by actor, podcaster and investor Sara Foster, who has built the business through content-driven commerce. AG1, the billion-dollar global health company, has transformed the supplement industry. Trusted by millions of people, from Olympians to those just starting out on their health journey, AG1 is setting the category standard for high-quality, science-driven foundational nutrition. As CEO, Kat Cole is focused on the brand's next phase of growth, innovation and global expansion as they enter into their 15th year.
Join Shopify President Harley Finkelstein, Favorite Daughter Co-founder Sara Foster and AG1 CEO Kat Cole for a captivating conversation about reaching their customers in unobvious ways, disrupting their industries and where the brands will go next.
Reaching younger consumers and accelerating global momentum: A conversation with New Balance President and CEO Joe PrestonIn an era where heritage and innovation converge, transforming a 118-year-old company into a modern powerhouse means pushing itself to think and act differently. Discover how New Balance has seized the cultural zeitgeist to resonate with rising generations while still appealing to its core running consumer — through its world-class operations, omnichannel strategy, athlete collaborations, domestic manufacturing and more — to ultimately create athletic shoes worn by everyone from supermodels in London to dads in Ohio. In this session, New Balance President and CEO Joe Preston will speak to the strategies behind the storied brand’s remarkable evolution to spark and sustain global growth and capture consumer attention.
Differentiate to Deliver: How Sephora is Continuing to Create the Best Experience in Prestige Beauty with Sephora North America President & CEO Artemis PatrickIn this session, hear from Sephora U.S. President & CEO Artemis Patrick as she embarks on her first-full year in the CEO role. She’ll discuss how Sephora is differentiating itself to remain the prestige beauty retailer of choice in an increasingly competitive marketplace. Topics she will speak to include: Sephora’s best-in-class approach to product quality and expert product curation, why the retailer is doubling down on its brick-and-mortar strategy, Sephora’s unique blueprint for helping brands grow and sustain, and how Sephora continues to cultivate a community where beauty enthusiasts of all backgrounds are celebrated. This is a can’t miss session for any retail professional looking to grow their brand, reach more consumers, and thrive in the ever-competitive retail sector.
Mastering the game of business and brands: A conversation with A-Rod Corp’s Alex Rodriguez and Dylan’s Candy Bar CEO Dylan LaurenJoin Alex Rodriguez, Chairman and CEO of A-Rod Corp, and Dylan Lauren, Founder and CEO of Dylan’s Candy Bar, for an insightful discussion on building thriving businesses and game-changing brands through innovation and strategic partnerships. Following his Hall-of-Fame Major League Baseball career, Alex founded investment company A-Rod Corp, which excels at turning potential into success by leveraging extensive expertise and a visionary approach to investments across diverse business sectors. Inspired by the legacy of her father’s storied career, Dylan (daughter of Ralph Lauren), founded Dylan’s Candy Bar in 2001, which revolutionized the candy industry by blending fashion, art and pop culture, creating a one-of-a-kind consumer experience. Learn how these two industry leaders harness a start-up mentality and collaborative spirit to drive their businesses forward, explore new opportunities and engage customers in novel ways. Discover their secrets to fostering innovation and achieving exceptional results in today’s competitive market.
Attention Press & Media: No audio or video recording, or photography will be allowed in this session. Only note taking is permitted.
Driving innovation and scaling communities around the world: A conversation with lululemon CEO Calvin McDonaldIn today’s fast-evolving global retail landscape, consumer preferences are constantly shifting, and the operating environment has never been more complex. lululemon continues to adapt and compete by innovating for the unmet needs of its guests, leveraging its direct-to-consumer model built on relationships, and growing its community around the world in a locally relevant way. Join lululemon CEO Calvin McDonald in a conversation that will explore the approaches that are propelling lululemon’s momentum and hear what’s next for the brand as it continues to strategically expand across the globe.
The future of fashion: Innovation and impact with Rent the RunwayJoin Jennifer Hyman, Co-founder and CEO of Rent the Runway, for a candid fireside chat exploring the company’s disruptive path in the fashion industry. Jennifer will share her experiences in building a company that transformed how consumers approach clothing, focusing on sustainability, circular fashion and fostering a sharing economy. Hear about the challenges and triumphs of creating a subscription-based model that democratizes luxury fashion and how Jennifer's leadership has driven innovation, growth and resilience through changing market dynamics. Gain exclusive insights into the future of fashion, the importance of empowering women in leadership and how Rent the Runway is redefining what it means to own your style.
Building a lifestyle brand: Pacsun’s vision for the next generationJoin Brie Olson, CEO of Pacsun, for an engaging fireside chat about leading a lifestyle brand that resonates with youth culture. Brie will discuss how Pacsun stays ahead of trends, curating a brand experience that blends fashion, community and social responsibility. Learn about the strategic pivots that have helped Pacsun thrive in a rapidly changing retail landscape, including embracing digital innovation and strategic collaborations. Brie will share insights on connecting with Gen Z, creating a brand that reflects their values, navigating the evolving world of fashion retail, and social commerce.
