Unlock the secrets to retail success from top industry insiders

NRF 2026: Retail’s Big Show is the best way to stay informed and ahead of where your consumers are going. You’ll get a readout of the latest trends and tech and expert and peer insights — all in one place. 

Here’s a look at some of the innovative brands you’ll hear from at NRF 2026. 

Bob Eddy, NRF Board Chair and CEO of BJ’s Wholesale Club Inc., will open NRF 2026: Retail’s Big Show, previewing key initiatives and highlights. He’ll be joined by Ed Stack, Executive Director of DICK’S Sporting Goods, for a conversation about leadership, experiential retail, and leveraging technology and community engagement for growth. 

Disruptive strategies are transforming retail through vertical integration, real-time manufacturing and global partnerships. During the opening keynote, Fanatics founder and CEO Michael Rubin will highlight how a fan-first approach focused on speed, innovation and emotional connection is building a new model for growth across industries.

Artificial intelligence is driving a massive technology platform shift that will impact people, businesses and society. Sundar Pichai, CEO of Google and Alphabet, and John Furner, president and CEO of Walmart U.S. and incoming president and CEO of Walmart Inc., will discuss how AI is transforming industries and accelerating their companies’ missions during a fireside chat. 

REI Co-op President and CEO Mary Beth Laughton will share how the company is building trust with outdoor enthusiasts by focusing on reliability, integrity, care and connection as part of its new strategic plan, Peak 28: Ascending Together. Laughton will discuss REI’s customer-driven revitalization efforts centered on member feedback, community engagement and data-driven innovation. 

Fran Horowitz, CEO of Abercrombie and Fitch Co. and NRF’s 2026 The Visionary Award recipient, has revitalized the company through a focus on customer insights, team empowerment and adaptability, resulting in 11 consecutive quarters of growth and the successful transformation of its brands for a new generation. Horowitz and NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay will sit down for a fireside chat at NRF 2026 to discuss how her authentic, accountable and balanced leadership has fostered a culture of inclusivity and innovation that positions A&F as a financial and cultural leader in the retail industry. 

Ulta Beauty CEO Kecia Steelman and Bobby Stephens from Deloitte will discuss how Ulta’s Unleashed strategy drives innovation, market share and customer loyalty in the beauty and wellness sectors. Hear insights into Ulta’s leadership mindset and operational blueprint, providing strategies for transformation and profitable growth. 

Linda Hubbard, CEO of Carhartt Inc., and Crocs Brand President Anne Mehlman will explore how legacy brands can adapt and grow in today’s dynamic global retail landscape. Their conversation will highlight strategies for staying authentic, scaling purpose-driven narratives and leading with resilience. 

Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from top retail leaders at NRF 2026: Retail’s Big Show. Register today!