What to Look For at NRF 2026: Retail’s Big Show

Core Insights - The retail industry is facing significant challenges due to factors such as the rise of AI, tariffs, tax cuts, and economic uncertainties, highlighted by the upcoming NRF 2026: Retail's Big Show [1] Group 1: Event Overview - NRF 2026 is expected to attract a record crowd of at least 40,000 attendees, despite initial concerns about international travel to the U.S. [2] - The event will feature 1,025 exhibitors across 335,000 square feet of exhibit space, marking a record number of exhibitors [3] - The convention will emphasize solutions in agentic AI, robotics, fulfillment, supply chain management, customer acquisition, and marketing [3] Group 2: AI Focus - A fifth 'feature stage' dedicated to AI will be introduced, allowing attendees to learn about AI and see solutions in action [4] - The event will include over 185 sessions and 565 speakers, reflecting substantial investments in content to enhance learning opportunities [5] - The combination of the trade show and content components is seen as a key factor in the event's success in attracting a global audience [5]