The National Retail Federation is convening the retail industry for its premier advocacy event, the Retail Advocates Summit. Taking place July 24-25 in Washington, D.C., this event gives retailers the opportunity to engage with the elected leaders who shape policies that impact retailers every day, share the vibrant story of retail and honor America’s retail advocates.
NRF’s Retail Advocates Summit is the retail industry’s award-winning premier advocacy event that gives retailers a seat at the table to engage lawmakers and share retail’s story.
The highlight of the Retail Advocates Summit is The Retail Experience, an interactive showcase connecting policymakers with leading retailers, Main Street merchants and technology innovators. Modeled as a trade show, The Retail Experience lets lawmakers and their staff see the power of retail firsthand through interactive demos and booth displays that encourage relationship building.
In keeping with this year’s theme, “The Power of Retail,” here’s a preview of what will be shared with policymakers at The Retail Experience:
1. Retail powers the economy
Supporting more than one in four American jobs and contributing $5.3 trillion to the annual GDP, retail is the nation’s largest private-sector employer. Members of Congress will have the opportunity to experience the direct economic impact of the retail industry in the states and districts they represent through interactive maps of Economic Contribution of the U.S. Retail Industry data from a survey conducted by PwC.
2. Retail powers careers
It is critical that policymakers see that retail is a great place to start and grow careers. Alongside Dick’s Sporting Goods and Lowe’s, the NRF Foundation will share how it provides access to the education and opportunities needed for successful retail careers, helping people build better lives and stronger communities.
3. Retail powers communities
Retail is at the heart of communities across America. Lawmakers will have the opportunity to connect with representatives from leading retail companies including Amazon, J.C. Penney, Macy’s, Target and Walmart to hear how they support, connect and power communities.
4. Small business powers communities
More than 98% of retailers are small businesses. Nearly 50 Main Street retailers from 27 states attending the Retail Advocates Summit as part of the America’s Retail Champions program, sponsored by Affirm, will participate in product display in a mini-town square and share how they empower and support their communities.
NRF’s America’s Retail Champions program celebrates small retailers who are exceptional champions for retail and the communities they serve.
5. Technology powers retail
Technology pushes the retail industry forward. Companies leading this tech transformation such as Auror, eBay and Google will share their latest innovations that help retailers better serve their customers.
6. Heroes/Champions of Main Street
NRF is proud to honor more than 200 lawmakers with our Heroes of Main Street and Champions of Main Street awards at The Retail Experience. Award winners are selected for their legislative leadership and actions to support the U.S. retail industry.
Be part of the action at The Retail Experience on July 25 by following along on NRF’s Instagram and X accounts.
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