What to Expect at Retail’s Big Show 2017 by NRF

You’re almost there, Retailers. No, we’re not referring to the end of the holiday season, but to the kickoff of NRF’s Big Show. Happening January 15-17 at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York, this show is the retail industry’s flagship event. This year’s three-day extravaganza is toting over 3,300 retail companies, 510 exhibitors, and 300+ industry speakers, all descending upon New York City to discuss the latest trends, innovations and their very own successes and failures. Talk about an amazing community to network with like-minded industry peers!

A quick overview of this year’s agenda, and you can tell the themes are heavy on how to become data-driven, expand globally and refocus digital spend to deliver smart, connected customer experiences via technology. With consumers becoming more savvy and expecting seamless personalized experiences, it’s no surprise. From the keynote speakers that were thoughtfully chosen to challenge and encourage the retailers sitting across from them, to the exhibitors that are available to help redefine brand’s digital, omni-channel and in-store experiences, this event has something for every merchant depending on the area they are looking to improve upon.

We’re also happy to report that this year the Innovation Lab will be bigger and better than ever. This area is about products and technologies that today are futuristic and creative, but by the end of 2017 could easily become mainstream — so pay attention! Taking center stage this year in the River Pavillion on level four of the Javits, the Innovation Lab is sponsored by VISA and will be focused on: 3D printing, AI, AR/VR, drones, robotics and wearables. (Sidenote: Looking to learn more about Virtual Reality before the show? Echidna’s VP of User Experience, Michael Braun, recently talked to us about possible VR scenarios and UX considerations of VR.)

Echidna will also be back at NRF to discuss your most pressing commerce concerns going into 2017. From increasing conversion rates through a better user experience, to reviewing commerce platforms based on your requirements, to creating that innovative mobile application — or, simply driving more ideal buyers to your site — we’ve worked with brands across the globe on solutions to these pressing issues. You will also have the opportunity to demo the latest cloud-based commerce platforms, including Echidna’s proprietary CloudCore system, which can help reduce commerce implementation project timelines by up to 50%! All retailers that meet with Echidna will leave with a lot more knowledge in the space, a free Jawbone Mini Jambox (fits perfectly even in the smallest carry-ons), and the chance to take home an iPad Mini. You can expect to leave this meeting with solid advice from experts on how to approach your project. Get set up to meet us here.

Which sessions and events are not-to-be-missed in your book at the NRF Big Show? What vendors are on your list to visit and why?

For tickets and more information on Retail’s Big Show by NRF, click here.