Join us for an exclusive event that explores the health of American consumers and the retail industry with leaders from major retail brands, prominent economists and consumer experts. The event is open to everyone and completely free to attend.
Date: April 2, 2025
Time: 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM (ET)
Format: Virtual
Session 1
Serving Customers in 2025
Retail leaders examine how retailers innovate to meet consumer needs, provide exceptional shopping experiences, and drive customer engagement and retention in today’s competitive landscape.
Matthew Shay
President and CEO
National Retail Federation
Bob Eddy
Chairman and CEO
BJ’s Wholesale Club
Session 2
Retail Leader Video Series
Retail CEOs and small business owners describe a recent campaign initiative or change implemented across their organization, and how it positions the company for success in 2025 and beyond. Check back for more updates on speakers for this session.
John Furner
President and CEO
Walmart U.S.
Sarah Wells
CEO and Founder
Sarah Wells Bags
Adrienne Walker
Owner
BlueHenry
Pete Nordstrom
President and Chief Brand Officer
Nordstrom Inc.
Session 3
Consumer Trends Spotlight
Explore the latest consumer trends, including key generational shifts, loyalty and value drivers, and the emergence of the “body-builder consumer.”
Katherine Cullen
Vice President, Industry and Consumer Insights
National Retail Federation
Kelly Pedersen
Partner, Global Retail Leader
PwC
Session 4
2025 Retail Sales Forecast
NRF announces the 2025 retail sales forecast.
Jack Kleinhenz
Chief Economist, Ph.D., CBE
National Retail Federation
Session 5
2025 Consumer and Retail Spending Outlook
Chief economists discuss the outlook for the 2025 economy and its impact on consumer spending.
Jack Kleinhenz
Chief Economist, Ph.D., CBE
National Retail Federation
Gregory Daco
Chief Economist
EY
Sarah Wolfe
Senior Economist and Strategist
Morgan Stanley
NRF’s fourth annual State of Retail & the Consumer on March 20, 2024 explored the health of American consumers and the retail industry with leaders including NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay, NRF Chief Economist Jack Kleinhenz, Ph.D., retail executives from major brands, prominent economists and consumer experts.
April 2-3, 2025 | Washington, D.C.
In conjunction with NRF’s annual State of Retail & the Consumer, NRF’s newest advocacy event brings together top retail professionals, advocates and lawmakers to discuss retail’s economic impact and advance pro-growth policies that benefit the industry.