Ones to watch at NRF 2026

NRF 2026: Retail’s Big Show (January 11–13, 2026 at the Javits Convention Center, NYC) brings together hundreds of visionaries shaping the future of retail and commerce. With 1,000+ exhibitors and 175+ sessions, there’s no shortage of insights, but some speakers and sessions are especially worth putting on your radar.

Here’s our curated list of people to watch and sessions to plan for when you visit Retail’s Big Show this year.

David Wood: CEO, Wickes Group

A seasoned retail leader with over 30 years in the sector, David Wood brings a deep understanding of consumer behaviour, strategy and purpose-driven leadership. As CEO of Wickes Group, he blends operational insight with customer-centric thinking — a perspective that resonates with many of the strategic conversations at NRF 2026.

Why watch: Wood’s viewpoint on the evolving role of brand, service and omnichannel experience will be especially relevant for retailers focused on growth and transformation.

Tracy Flynn: HP (AI + Checkout + Customer Experience)

Tracy Flynn, OEM Business Development for HP North America, is speaking in a session that explores how AI is transforming retail experiences beyond the checkout counter. With expertise spanning store systems, automation and front-line innovation, Flynn’s talk is a great choice for anyone interested in how AI, self-service and store technology intersect.

Session highlight: Beyond checkout: How AI is transforming retail experiences

Why watch: If you’re focused on how tech like AI and intelligent automation can elevate the customer journey (from queue-busting to personalisation), this session delivers real-world insight.

Clay Lute: The Z Suite (Gen Z Shopping and AI)

Clay Lute, a leading Gen Z strategist and voice in fashion retail, takes the Klaviyo Stage with a session on how Gen Z uses AI to shop for fashion. As brands compete for younger consumers, this talk offers practical direction for connecting with a key audience at the convergence of culture, technology and commerce.

Session highlight: The Z Suite Meets the CMO: Insights into how Gen Z Is using AI to shop for fashion

Why watch: Lute’s session is ideal for retailers looking to understand the next wave of consumer expectations and digital behaviour.

Jill Manoff: Editor-in-Chief, Glossy & Modern Retail

Jill Manoff leads conversation around creator culture and community-driven commerce. Her session features brands partnering with creators to build community influence and measurable engagement, an area growing fast as social and retail continue to intertwine.

Session highlight: Retail creators: Culture that converts

Why watch: This talk connects marketing authenticity with business outcomes — a must-see for retail marketers and brand leaders.

NRF Retail Voices: Diverse perspectives from across the industry

NRF’s Retail Voices program highlights influential thought leaders whose insights are shaping the future of commerce. The Class of 2026 includes strategists, analysts, innovators and operational leaders such as:

• Liza Amlani, Principal and Co-Founder, Retail Strategy Group
• Steve Dennis, President, SageBerry Consulting
• Marie Driscoll, Founder, Driscoll Advisors
• Sharon Gai, AI and Innovation Expert
• Matt Ezyk, Head of Ecommerce Technology, Hanna Andersson
• Nick Harbaugh, EVP Digital & Revenue, Target (among others)

 Why watch: The Retail Voices lineup is a rich mixer of perspectives, from data and analytics to culture, AI and omnichannel leadership, making these sessions great for strategy, innovation and trendspotting.

Ask the Speaker: Interactive Q&A sessions

One of NRF 2026’s most engaging formats is Ask the Speaker, where All-Access Pass holders can bring their questions directly to experts. These dynamic, 20-minute sessions focus on practical challenges like technology adoption, retail strategy and consumer behaviour, with the discussion shaped by the audience’s questions.

Why watch: If you want candid insight and tailored advice from top minds in retail, this session format deserves a spot on your schedule.

Plan your time wisely at NRF 2026

With so many voices and sessions at NRF 2026, it helps to have a few anchors on your agenda. Whether you’re interested in AI, customer experience, Gen Z behaviour, creator culture or interactive learning, these speakers and formats deliver insight that’s relevant for today and next.

And don’t forget to visit Flooid at Booth #6405 to see our composable unified commerce platform in action, from cloud-native retail engines to partner-powered checkout and self-service experiences.

Schedule a meeting today and plan your visit so you make the most of Retail’s Big Show.