We are thrilled to be back in New York City this year and be reunited with the world’s biggest retail experts from diverse industries. We look forward to meeting in person to exchange critical insights on digital growth and help accelerate omnichannel retail together. There’s incredible information to be covered at NRF 2022, the largest retail conference and expo of the year!
Here are a few tips on how to get the most out of the event.
Health and safety come first
NRF will certainly be a little different this year as health and safety have become a top priority for all of us. It is important to note that NRF requires all attendees to be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 and to provide valid proof of vaccination. In accordance with current state, city and venue protocols, attendees will also be required to wear masks while participating in any NRF 2022 event activities. We recommend reading the NRF COVID-19 guidelines to get adequately prepared.
Tradeshow etiquette has certainly changed as well. Many now prefer to avoid unnecessary personal contact. It is important to respect everyone's comfort level and to listen to the signs from speakers, exhibitors and fellow attendees to keep an acceptable physical distance. Unfortunately, handshakes have fallen victim to the pandemic, but you can still opt for many substitutes like elbow and fist bumping, or even a friendly nod.
Finally, don’t forget your mask, wash your hands frequently and bring your pocket-sized hand sanitizer bottle, because nothing will stop us from getting reunited again at this event!
Register early
The Orckestra promo code, 3315, grants a 20% discount on the full price of the January conference. Register now to enjoy the early-bird price.
Define your goals
Before the start of the conference, take some time to reflect on why you’re going and what you’d like to learn about omnichannel retailing. Set clear goals for what you want to take away from NRF 2022. Here are some examples:
- Discover and stay ahead of the latest industry trends and innovations
- Look for technologies to replace your legacy systems
- Find solutions to lingering problems in your business
- Identify new tools to help you speed through your business goals
Optimize your time
Plan your lunch and coffee breaks around the people you want to meet. Don’t let mealtimes go to waste. Instead, map out a plan of attack to strategically make connections in the omnichannel retailing world.
You may also want to add the Guided Retail Store Tours on January 15th, 17th and 19th to your schedule. This option requires an additional fee, but it’s worth it: the walking tours analyze what global retail leaders are doing right including the latest store innovations and how they are reinventing brick and mortar.
Plan ahead
NRF 2022 sessions come in various formats, but they all undoubtedly help to uncover the latest retail trends and tips to reach your business goals, giving you key insights to plan for the future.
There are a ton of presentations and interesting themes this year:
- Operations on Overdrive. Less doing, more done: How to work smarter, not harder.
- Keep Pace with People. Hire order: How to invest in the team you already have.
- Expediting Experiences. Impress me: How to stand out in a world of stand-out experiences.
- Business Models Made to Move. Role model: How to create the businesses of tomorrow, today.
- Hit Go on Growth. Opportunity knocks: How to find possibilities in every place possible.
It is impossible to see it all so make sure to prioritise which topics you want to learn about and maximize your time at the event. Take a moment to look at the full conference agenda before the event starts and note the sessions that interest you the most in your calendar.
Final preparations for NRF 2022
As you pack your suitcase for NRF 2022, stick to comfortable outfits and shoes (you can leave those scratchy sweaters and high heels behind). At the conference, keep your business cards on hand at all times, bring snacks to give you energy, and make sure to stay hydrated. You should also focus on socializing with a purpose—that is, networking with the aim of building lasting relationships.
