The retail industry is at a pivotal moment as e-commerce continues to dominate consumer preferences. Consumer demands are ever evolving, so how do retailers ensure they are meeting consumers where they are.

This session focuses on the dynamic growth of online shopping and the critical role of omnichannel strategies in the retail sector. We will examine how retailers are merging their online and offline efforts to offer cohesive shopping experiences, highlighting key innovations such as buy online, pick up in-store (BOPIS), and curbside pickup.

Topic discussions will include:

• How well are we integrating our online and offline operations?
• Are we effectively managing the challenges that come with merging these two worlds?

The future of retail lies in the seamless integration of advanced technologies. While the technology continues to generate significant industry hype, how are forward-thinking retailers and brands cutting through the noise to find and implement meaningful, value-driving AI applications?

This session will focus on how artificial intelligence and machine learning are being utilized to streamline inventory management, predict demand with greater accuracy, and tailor marketing efforts to individual consumers. We will also explore the role of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) in providing immersive and interactive shopping experiences, such as virtual try-ons and product demos.

During this round table we will cover:

• How are advanced algorithms and data analytics enabling retailers to predict consumer demand with greater accuracy, and how does this improve inventory planning and customer satisfaction?
• How are retailers using AI and machine learning to optimize inventory management, reduce waste, and ensure products are available when and where customers need them?

As retail continues to evolve, personalization and exceptional customer service have become crucial for success. Slick content marketing, beautiful, high-quality imagery, shoppable video, AI-based recommendation tools, and human-like chatbots are just some of the tactics and technologies that make digital shopping more engaging.

How can retailers leverage the power of AI and data analytics to create personalized shopping experiences that truly resonate with consumers? From individualized product recommendations to targeted marketing messages, personalization is driving customer engagement and loyalty.

During this round table we will cover:

• How can AI be utilized to analyze customer data and map out detailed customer journeys, and in what ways can this information help retailers create highly personalized shopping experiences?
• How can retailers balance the need for personalized experiences with consumers' expectations for privacy and data security, ensuring transparency and building trust?

Social media is not just for engagement anymore - it's for shopping. This session focuses on the rise of social commerce, where platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok have become pivotal sales channels. Learn how users can seamlessly shop through social media posts and ads and discover the impact of influencer marketing in driving sales.

We will discuss best practices for leveraging influencers to create authentic, compelling content that resonates with audiences and boosts brand messaging. Join us to gain insights into crafting effective social commerce strategies that convert social interactions into sales.

Creating a process that applies old-school design methodology to create breakthrough tech-driven services/experiences in retail and other industries

In the competitive world of retail, discounting can often seem like the only way to attract customers.
Consider another approach: Try Olympic-level product development and innovation, or, “spaghetti throwing." This strategy involves continuously creating and launching new products, seeing which ones resonate with customers, and using those successes to maintain competitive pricing without resorting to discounts.

Join Brad Wolansky, retail CEO veteran of Dover Saddlery, Yankee Candle, The Golf Warehouse, Orvis, and others, to learn the exact tactics involved (and pitfalls to watch out for) in this engaging, fast-moving talk.