The SuperSaturday 2025 event, sponsored by RetailROI, the Retail Orphans Initiative, raised $386,000 to support orphans and vulnerable children around the world. Held Jan. 11, just prior to the NRF Big Show, the day-long event gathered retailers, vendors, press and analysts to showcase the industry’s commitment to collectively creating positive social impacts.
Called “Tech and Tears” for its combination of retail insights and heartfelt philanthropy, the event featured 16 charity booths representing multiple causes dedicated to improving kids’ lives. Corporate sponsors included Microsoft, Aptos, The Parker Avery Group, Aptos, JumpMind, Amazon Web Services, Nvidia, Manhattan Associates, Toshiba and IHL Group.
One of the event highlights was Alexis Russell, Founder of Alexis Russell Jewelry, who shared her own foster care story: “I grew up in the foster care system,” Russell said. “I entered at two years old after a head injury sent me to the hospital. Little did I know then that I would never return to my mother.” Russell then shared her personal story, leading to entrepreneurship and recent investments in her firm.
Since it was founded, RetailROI has distributed more than $5.1 million in grants that have directly impacted more than 363,000 children in 31 countries. Key accomplishments include
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- The construction or remodeling of 27 schools and 31 computer labs;
- Support for 2,300+ adoptions and efforts that have helped 32,000 children remain in family environments rather than going into foster care; and
- Critical rescue operations have saved more than 1,400 women and children from sex trafficking.
“The success of this year’s SuperSaturday reaffirms our belief that when retail comes together, we not only drive business innovation but also make a profound difference in the lives of children in need,” said Greg Buzek, President of RetailROI in a statement. “It is our hope that every participant leaves with a renewed sense of purpose and commitment to our shared mission of creating lasting, positive change for the most vulnerable in our society, whether that is getting involved locally or through a RetailROI trip with colleagues.”
