If you’re working in retail—whether you’re a category manager, supply‑chain expert, marketing pro, store operations lead, or part of FMCG or retail technology—Retail’s Big Show in New York is a must-attend. This event, hosted by the National Retail Federation, brings together the full ecosystem: brands, suppliers, startups, analysts, technologists, and decision‑makers under one roof.
It’s a place to see, learn, connect, and position your business for what’s next in consumer trends and retail innovation.
When & Where It’s Happening
- Dates: January 12–14, 2026
- Venue: Javits Center, Manhattan, New York City
- Demo‑Day & Network Events: January 11 (startup pitch contests, intimate meetups)
The convention center is centrally located, with easy access to subways, buses, rideshare, hotels, Times Square, and iconic NYC energy.
What’s the Show All About?
Retail’s Big Show is that rare gathering where nearly every part of retail comes together:
- Huge expo floor packed with hundreds of exhibitors—from grocery chains to fashion brands to startup tech
- Thought-leadership keynotes featuring CEOs, trendsetters, and futurists
- Breakout sessions on everything from sustainability to data, mobile, supply-chain, and payments
- Innovation labs for AI, augmented reality, digital signage, inventory systems, and robotics
- Startup Demo Day where emerging brands pitch ideas live
It’s where ideas meet action, and where you connect with people who shape how consumers buy today and tomorrow.
Who Should Attend
- Category managers in FMCG, health, beauty, foodservice, apparel, and home goods
- Retail-tech teams and CIOs focusing on analytics, e-commerce, checkout, inventory, and AI
- Supply-chain leads planning logistics, fulfillment, warehouse automation, store operations
- Marketers exploring media, loyalty, brand experience, omnichannel campaigns
- Retail real‑estate, store operations, and facilities pros working on design, fixtures, tech integration
- Startups in retail tech, foodservice innovation, checkout, analytics, fulfillment
- Analysts, consultants, vendors, investors focused on retail trends
If what you do touches how consumers shop, interact, and stay loyal—this show is for you.
What You’ll Experience
1. Massive Expo Floor
Explore booths showcasing everything from smart carts and checkout kiosks to new product launches, category-first offerings, logistics tech, and display systems.
2. Inspiring Keynotes
Hear leadership from top retailers, futurists, and innovators on customer behavior, store formats, sustainability, and the future of commerce.
3. Breakout Sessions
Choose 50+ tracks—data strategy, social commerce, store design, supply-chain automation, payments, workforce trends, sustainability, and more.
4. Innovation Labs & Start‑up Demo Day
See robots, AI-powered cashierless systems, digital mirrors, last‑mile logistics demos, and listen to founders pitch real-world tech for retail.
5. Networking Events
From retail dinners and CEO breakfasts to happy hours, startup mixers, and one-on-one Meet‑ups, this show emphasizes relationships.
6. Study Tours
Visit flagship experiential stores in NYC to see tomorrow’s retail—immersive experiences, digital signage, and sustainable design.
Why You’ll Benefit
- Spot trends early: Be the first to learn about new tools or ideas
- Get fresh ideas: Walk away with concepts you can pilot next quarter
- Find partners and vendors: One show visit can meet dozens of new suppliers
- Validate investments: Talk to peers who’ve tried similar solutions
- Build relationships: Shared workshops and informal chats often kickstart collaborations
- Recharge personally: The scale, energy, and ideas are both inspiring and motivating
Cost & Registration
Program attendance typically includes:
- Full Expo and Session Pass: Early-registrants pay less; late registration is more
- Startup Demo Day Access: May be included or have a small add-on
- Networking Events: Breakfasts or evening gatherings may require additional tickets
- Group Discounts: Often available for teams or multiple attendees
Pricing is designed to be flexible—start with expo access, then add sessions or events you care about.
Where to Stay
Steps from the Javits Center, you’ll find:
- High-rise hotels with great city views and conference rates
- Mid-range hotels offering solid business amenities
- Boutique inns and loft-style stays in Hell’s Kitchen and Chelsea
- Rentals perfect for groups or extended stays
New York gets busy in January, so book early to stay in the mix near the action.
Getting Around NYC
- By air: LaGuardia, JFK, Newark—all accessible via shuttle, rail, rideshare
- Subway: Engage 7, 1, A, C, E lines—or take PATH if staying in New Jersey
- Ride-share & taxis: Easy for pick-ups and drop-offs
- Walking: Most hotels, bars, and restaurants are within easy reach
- River shuttles: Run along the Hudson—an interesting way to commute
Tips for an Excellent Show
- Plan your schedule ahead—choose expo areas or sessions that align with your role
- Download the app or make your own map—expo floor is huge
- Wear comfy shoes—you’ll walk 10K steps per day here
- Bring business cards or digital contact links—people expect fast exchanges
- Try Innovation Labs early—some demos highlight new tech that draws a crowd
- Attend at least one startup pitch session—you’ll see fresh thinking firsthand
- Join a networking breakfast or evening gathering—strategic conversations often start there
- Take notes and follow up—send a quick “great to meet you” within 48 hours
Final Thoughts
Retail’s Big Show is not just another conference—it’s the epicenter of retail’s future, in one go. Over three days you absorb insight, meet partners, explore solutions, and return home with inspiration and action steps.
If you’re shaping how your business connects with consumers—whether in brick‑and‑mortar, e‑commerce, or emerging formats—this show gives you both vision and practical next moves.
To learn more and book your ticket, visit:
https://nrfbigshow.nrf.com