On the heels of RetailX’s recent announcement of introducing a new, integrated approach to showcasing design, technology and experience in one space, the premier retail event today releases its initial lineup of keynote speakers.
Taking place June 9-11, 2020, at McCormick Place in Chicago, RetailX will partner with industry visionaries to explore the future of retail and address the major trends affecting online and offline consumer behavior to 15,000+ retailers and industry innovators with 1,000+ exhibiting brands.
“The diverse level of expertise these industry innovators bring, coupled with the power of the brands they represent, is going to deliver a game-changing conference experience at RetailX,” says Alison Medina, Director of Content, RetailX. “I am thrilled to have our headline speakers share their unique perspective on the future of retail, providing insight into the ever-changing physical and digital landscape, while inspiring attendees and providing key takeaways on how to evolve and redefine the retail business model,” adds Medina.
Taking stage during Retail X’s three-day conference will be:
Tom McGee, President & CEO, International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC):
McGee will share his insights on the macro trends driving the industry’s Retail Renaissance, a term he’s coined to describe the convergence taking place in the industry as retailers embrace both digital and physical channels for serving consumers. He will provide his perspective on the evolution of the tenant mix in shopping centers, and an in depth look into the Halo Effect, the direct positive impact physical stores have on digital engagement, consumer awareness and sales. ICSC serves the global retail real estate industry by providing its 70,000+ member network in over 100 countries with invaluable resources, connections and industry insights, while actively working together to shape public policy.
Zak Normandin, Founder & CEO, Iris Nova:
Normandin is an American entrepreneur and the founder and CEO of Iris Nova, the parent company of New York-based beverage brand DIRTY LEMON and The Drug Store, a cashierless retail experience utilizing the company’s proprietary SMS texting technology. The Coca-Cola-backed startup has announced plans to spend $100 million over the next three to five years to expand its offerings, including launching new internal beverage brands, as well as incubating and investing in beverages created by other companies and bringing them into its distribution portfolio. The company has also announced two new The Drug Store locations in Chicago and Los Angeles to open in the first half of 2020.
Joan King, Senior Vice President, Ecommerce & International, Crate and Barrel:
The furniture and homegoods seller has made a large ecommerce push, growing activity on social media platforms like Instagram and increased partnerships with brands such as Zola and Goop, and is heavily focused on the in-store customer experience. Crate and Barrel is expected to open up to 15 full-service restaurants, called The Table at Crate, after its first location just outside of Chicago proved to be a hit last summer.
Josh Luber, Co-Founder, StockX:
What began as a beloved Detroit-based online sneaker resale marketplace in 2015 has blossomed into an ever-evolving international platform with a multitude of resale categories and brands, including sneakers, streetwear, collectibles, watches and handbags. In June 2019, StockX raised $110 million in a Series C funding round to give it a $1 billion valuation. See how this resale giant is proving the recommerce trend is real, and what is in store for the future.
Additional keynote speakers to be announced soon!
RetailX is the meeting place for online and offline retailers, collaborating to transform the retail experience and boost retail growth. By curating a dynamic show floor with GlobalShop, IRCE and SmartRetail; retailers, designers, innovators and manufacturers experience what retail is today: integrated, responsive and endlessly engaging.