Retail industry events cover virtually everything consumers buy. Food, sporting goods, gasoline and toys are just a fraction of the retail industry. Running a retail business takes hard work and retail shows help business owners find products and suppliers, make solid business plans and bring the world's goods to consumers.

Retail industry conventions often focus on specific sales sectors such as apparel or furniture. Attending a retail convention lets you discuss current market conditions with experts who can point your business in a more profitable direction. Keeping up with current consumer trends is easier when you have a retail industry trade show introducing the newest products. Consider the following when choosing a retail conference to attend:

1. Stock your shelves with popular new items found at retail industry events.

2. Learn to improve your business with keynote sessions at retail events.

3. Manage your business more efficiently with retail technology conference sessions.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find retail events that focus on popular new products

Retail operations large and small benefit from the hundreds of products found on the exposition floor. Manufacturers and suppliers bring their best to help stock your store shelves with the popular products consumers want. Finding the right products for your customers is easy with the selection at a retail convention.

I recommend: The National Retail Federation (NRF) has shows around the country to introduce your business with products from around the globe. The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) hosts the largest consumer electronics show in the country with the latest gadgets, audio and video products on display in one place.

Listen to expert speakers about retail industry news and how it affects your business

Keynote speakers and retail seminars are part of many retail conferences. Learning about the latest consumer trends and advice on running a retail operation gives your business a competitive edge. Expert sessions and seminars often target specific retail segments to ensure the information is relevant to the attending audience.

I recommend: The International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) holds presentations, seminars and conferences around the world with a focus on retailers in small and large shopping centers. Retail executives rely heavily on supply lines and The Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA) addresses current events and solutions with an annual conference.

Look for ways to improve operations at a retail technology conference

Retail trade shows introduce new technologies and solutions specific to the retailer. Software, scanners and security products make ordering, stocking and managing a retail operation more efficient. Retail trade shows that focus on innovation in retail help streamline your business.

I recommend: The North American Retail Hardware Association's (NRHA) annual conference is just one of many industry conferences offered to introduce products and solutions to retailers of all sizes. Focused on technical innovations and maximizing retail, ROI Nielsen Business Media has annual events for the retail professional.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Local retail events highlight the products and suppliers in your area. Supporting locally-produced products helps not only by boosting the local economy, but the environment as well.