The National Retail Federation (NRF) Big Show is less than a
week away, and as usual the conference will draw in the biggest names from
retail and technology to showcase top trends. More than 35,000 attendees are
expected, including representatives from as many as 18,000 retailers.
The RTP editors
share their advice and tips on how to get the most value from time spent at the
NRF Big Show.
Debbie Hauss,
Editor-in-Chief: The NRF Big Show is bigger every year and just as
challenging to navigate. For retail executives, it’s important to identify a
few key goals before entering the Javits Center. Here are some Q&As
that will help: 1) Are you looking to solve a current business
challenge? If so, take a look at the list of
exhibitors and schedule one-on-one meetings with potential
solution partners. 2) Are you looking to be inspired by your industry
colleagues? If so, peruse the education agenda and be sure to
get to the session a bit early to secure a seat. 3) Do you want to
learn about the next hot tech trend? If so, make your first stop
the Innovation
Lab. Taking a bit of time for planning can make a big difference in
feeling like your time was productive at the event.
Adam Blair, Executive
Editor: I’ve been to more NRF Big Shows than I can (or want to) count, so
I’m happy to share some advice on getting the most out of the experience:
1. Have a plan for touring the show floor, and make appointments if
possible: It’s easy to be overwhelmed by the big-name booths at the
front of the hall and to lose track of time, your most precious commodity at a
show like this. Every bit of advance planning you do will pay off. 2. But
leave some time to just wander: Every NRF show has some surprises,
from new exhibitors (or old exhibitors showing new stuff) to interesting
session speakers. 3. Stare at people’s badges: I know, your
mom told you it was rude to stare, but it’s the only way to find the people
you’re looking for. The conversations you have in the aisles are at least as
valuable as anything else you’ll get out of the show.
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Marie Griffin,
Managing Editor: I have three mantras for any live event: 1) You
get out what you put in. Don’t complain about boring conference
sessions. Ask questions during the education tracks to get what you need
or quietly exit and find a better session. If the show seems
dull, talk to more exhibitors; what you see in the booth might
not be everything they have. 2) You never know who you’ll meet.
Don’t spend all your time with people you know. A person or company you never
heard of might have an idea or invention that can solve a problem or bring your
company more money. 3) Divide and conquer. Don’t travel in a pack.
Whenever you don’t have to be in a meeting or activity with your colleagues,
agree to split up to find new vendors, learn from different speakers or put
yourself in a place to meet someone who might become incredibly valuable to
your business.
Glenn Taylor, Senior
Editor: Above all else, it’s important to understand the scope of the event
and take a deep breath. Seeing all the companies (and people) lined up
throughout the Javits floor can be intimidating even for NRF veterans, so take
your time when you get in and don’t feel the need to try to hit every spot at
once. Retail executives in particular have an opportunity to visit many
sessions throughout the event, and I would encourage them to sit in on some
that have nothing to do with their sector — or nothing to do with any
initiatives they work with at all. On the surface, people may think that’s not
the best use of their time, but it can be a good way to find outside-the-box
inspiration. Always be willing to learn something new; you never know when a
bit of information may be useful down the line.
Klaudia Tirico,
Features Editor: This will my third
time attending the NRF Big Show and one thing I must emphasize is: wear
comfortable shoes! I honestly don’t know how women who wear heels to this huge
event do it (more power to them!), but since the show floor is so big and
exhausting, you will need shoes that are made for walking. Ladies, if you must
wear heels, bring a pair of flats to change into. My colleagues all shared
great advice on how to navigate the show, so I’ll do my best to provide
additional insight on getting through NRF without a hitch. 1. If you like Starbucks, give yourself
enough time to stand on a very long line at the Starbucks at Javits. 2. Take notes! Make sure you have a
notebook or “notes” app on your phone at the ready to jot down important ideas.
There is a ton of information to digest in three days, it won’t be easy remembering
it all. 3. If you have time, check out the new Retail Store Tours on January 13 and 17. You
can register here.
Finally, since I’m a foodie, I’d be remiss not to share my favorite restaurant
near the Javits Center: Tavola. It’s an Italian joint about two blocks away from
the event. The pizza is delicious and the wild boar and veal meatballs are out
of this world. Enjoy!
