National Retail Federation (NRF)
Candlefocus EditorSince its inception in 1911, NRF has established itself as a guiding force in the retail industry and advocacy groups’ lobby for change in legislative and policy discussions. They continuously push for awareness for issues that result in tangible improvements for the industry; such as employment, wages, and healthcare. Through their in-floor policy recommendations, the NRF provides support for small and large businesses, while promoting the ethical and safe distribution of products which includes the ability to shop online and in store, opening up the industry to more potential consumers overtime.
The NRF Foundation offers financial assistance and training to those seeking to pursue a career in the retail industry. They provide grants, scholarships and a variety of courses to support and grow the workforce— an investment which pays off regardless of what sector of the retail industry they are employed in. With over 52 million Americans employed in the retail sector, NRF’s influence cannot be understated.
The NRF’s annual convention and expo, The Big Show, has been a cornerstone of the organization since its launch in 1999. Originally established to bring retail professionals together to connect and share best practices, The Big Show has grown to include individuals from all branches of retail. In 2022, when The Big Show is held in New York City, NRF expects more than 40,000 people to attend.
The NRF’s influence in the retail industry is substantial, and manages to keep up with trends in technology with new initiatives such as the NRF FutureLab. The NRF FutureLab leads conversations on the latest innovations in retail while providing resources to help members identify and act on the modern challenges hindering their success.
The National Retail Federation is a testament to the dynamism of the retail industry. As the world changes, NRF equips the industry with the ability to respond by advocating for legislation, training and inspiring the workforce, and promoting the convergent of technology with retail.