NRF 2026: Retail’s Big Show—Day 2—Retail Running on AI, Plus The Growing Value of Private Label and Creator Content
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NRF 2026: Retail’s Big Show—Day 2—Retail Running on AI, Plus The Growing Value of Private Label and Creator Content

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Primary Analyst:
John Mercer, Head of Global Research and Managing Director of Data-Driven Research
Contributors
Primary Analyst:
John Mercer, Head of Global Research and Managing Director of Data-Driven Research
Other Contributors:
Anna Beller, Vice President of Advisory
Jiayue Zhao
John Harmon, CFA, Managing Director of Technology Research
Max Kahn
Event Coverage

Reasons to Read

Understand how leading retailers are turning AI from a tool into a transformational operating system, with day two insights from NRF 2026: Retail’s Big Show.

Read this report to discover answers to these and other questions:

  • How are top retailers like Macy’s and Target using AI to drive dynamic customer experiences and AI-native operations?
  • What frontline AI use cases are proving most scalable across store operations, HR, and associate productivity?
  • How are private brands evolving from value-focused alternatives to engines of innovation and customer loyalty?
  • Why are retail leaders reframing connectivity infrastructure—especially 5G—as mission-critical for store operations?
  • How are brands leveraging creator content and digital storytelling to fuel full-funnel marketing and AI engagement?

Companies mentioned in this report include: Macy’s, Target, Kroger, Tractor Supply, Lowe’s, Walmart, CVS, Columbia Sportswear, American Eagle Outfitters, H&M, Ralph Lauren, Microsoft, T-Mobile.

Other relevant research:

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