The retail industry has changed a lot in the last few years, especially due to the Pandemic. It’s important for brand managers and retail representatives to keep up with the latest trends and find the best solutions for their shoppers.
This is why, in this article, we are going to share the best retail events, conferences, and trade shows you need to attend in 2022. Unfortunately, in 2020 and 2021, only a few events were held in person, the rest of them only took place virtually. Let’s see if 2022 is going to be different!
Why you should attend retail events and conferences
Before we dive in and talk about the best retail shows to go to, we should talk about why it’s important to attend these events. Going to a retail conference or event is an important part of being a retail professional. These events can offer a new perspective and they come with multiple benefits.
1. Networking with other retail professionals
Maybe the most important thing to do when attending these events is to network with other professionals in your industry. By engaging with brand managers, providers, and retail marketing experts you can find out what’s new in this field and gain a different perspective. Plus, you can create meaningful connections that might help you in the future.
2. Learning about new trends in the retail industry
All of these conferences and events bring together experts from around the world. Also, you have the opportunity to hear different speakers and learn more about the new trends. This is a great way to take the pulse of things and know how to improve your business.
3. Catching up on the latest innovations and technologies
Some of these events host expos where you can find the latest technologies and innovations. It’s your opportunity to put them to the test and see how they can help you promote your products in-store.
4. Business exposure
Last, but not least, it’s a great opportunity to talk about your business. Whether you are a technology provider, a brand manager, or a retail representative, you can talk to other experts in the field and tell them more about your products or services.
Are you convinced to register for the next retail event? Let’s see what are the must-attend retail conferences and show in 2022
Top 9 retail events to attend in 2022
1. NRF 2022 - Retail’s Big Show
When: January 16-18, 2022
Where: Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, New York City, USA
NRF Retail’s Big Show is the biggest and most praised retail event. After taking Retail's Big Show virtual in 2021, NRF is bringing the retail industry's largest gathering back in person in 2022. This year, 30.000 people are expected to attend this event.
At this event, you can listen to experts talk about customer experience, omnichannel strategy, the future of retail, and must-have retail technologies. Apart from learning about new trends, you can also see the best and most innovative technologies at NRF 2022's Innovation Lab. You’ll be able to see the Tokinomo, the robotic POSM and technologies from other 49 visionary start-ups.
2. ASD Market Week
When: February 27 - March 2, 2022
Where: Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, USA
ASD Market Week is the leading B2B trade show. Held every spring and summer in Las Vegas, this trade event showcases the world’s biggest variety of retail merchandise together in one amazing shopping experience.
At this trade show, you will be able to find products with high margins that are on-trend. Also, ASD Market Week provides free seminars on various topics, including retail store design, store planning, consumer trends, visual merchandising, small business marketing, and social media.
3. The NGA Show
When: February 27 - March 1, 2022
Where: Caesar Forum Convention Center, Las Vegas, USA
Another retail event taking place at the same time as the ASD Market Week. If you are looking for a networking opportunity, then the NGA show is the best for you. You will have access to over 40 educational workshops and you will be able to meet retail experts from all over the world.
Thanks to the special events organized during the NGA show, you will have the opportunity to engage with other independent retailers, wholesalers, and industry thought leaders.
4. ShopTalk
When: March 27-30, 2022
Where: Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas, USA
Ready for another Las Vegas retail event? Perfect, because ShopTalk is another praised event that you can’t miss in 2022. This annual event brings together retail experts with a common interest: learning about how customers discover, shop, and buy.
ShopTalk provides a platform for tech startups, retailers, manufacturers, and investors to network, collaborate, and learn from each other.
5. World Retail Congress
When: April 5-7, 2022
Where: Rome Cavalieri Hotel, Italy
The World Retail Congress is an important event that you shouldn’t miss in 2022. You will find the leaders of today’s global retail at this congress and you have the opportunity to network with some of the best professionals.
This year, at the World Retail Congress you will be able to find out more about the biggest innovations on the market, as well as the most important trends to keep an eye on. Discover inspiring stories from thought leaders.
6. Retail Global Gold Coast - Retail Fest 2022
When: April 10-14, 2022
Where: Broadbeach, Queensland, Australia
Bringing Australia’s retail community together for a 3-day conference, the Retail Fest 2022, promises to offer amazing insights. A week of learning, sharing, and networking for retail experts.
During this event, you can find anything there is to know about eCommerce, retail trends, and shopper behavior. Connect with well-known professionals during this 3-day conference.
7. Retail Innovation Conference and Expo
When: May 10-12, 2022
Where: McCormick Place, Chicago, USA
Prepare for a reimagined event for reimagined commerce experiences. Discover 3 tailored events for each customer experience. Attend the conference and visit the expo area to discover the latest retail tech trends.
Listen to world-renowned speakers and learn about omnichannel strategy, customer experience, and brand storytelling. You’ll also be able to attend various workshops on different topics.
8. IRX & eDX 2022
When: May 10-11, 2022
Where: NEC, Birmingham, UK
With retailers looking to increase their investment in new supply chain technologies in 2022, eDX provides a unique marketing opportunity: a chance for the whole industry – all your biggest potential customers – to be in one venue at one time.
The IRX will bring fascinating stories from renowned speakers. You will discover amazing insights during the workshops and the free conference. Stay on top of trends by attending the IRX and eDX 2022.
9. CRMC 2022
When: June 8-10
Where: Chicago
For 29 years, the Annual CRMC (Customer Relationship Management Conference) has maintained its reputation as the premier Retail Marketing & CRM event of the year. CRMC 2022 will offer a much-needed focus on the behavioral and social elements of customers as we Discover New Frontiers in Marketing.
Meet and network with over 700 Retail Marketers representing 180 leading brands specializing in CRM, CX, database/analytics, eComm, digital marketing, loyalty, omnichannel, and retention together in an intimate and elegant environment, where key tenants include a focus on real-world solutions. Participants will learn from a diverse group of expert speakers as well as high-level executives from leading retail companies.
10. Future Stores The Leading Retail In-Store Innovation Conference
When: July 14-15, 2022
Where: Sheraton, Seattle, USA
This event is your chance to meet in-store, design, omnichannel, and retail icons. You will learn from their personal experiences and struggles. Unlike most events, Future Stores bring you closer to the action and gives you exclusive access to the latest in-store trends.
Now that you know what events to attend, register or sign up for updates. Join retail experts from around the world and learn more about the future of this industry.
