Event CoverageNRF 2026: Retail’s Big Show—Day 2—Retail Running on AI, Plus The Growing Value of Private Label and Creator Content John Mercer, Head of Global Research and Managing Director of Data-Driven Research January 13, 2026 Reasons to ReadUnderstand 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: NRF 2026: Retail’s Big Show—Day 1—Everything Agentic, Plus Digital Twins, Robotics and Smart Stores All our insights on AI in retail Visit the Coresight Research Retail Technology Hub to explore reports, data and competitive landscapes on technology. Already a subscriber? Log in You are currently viewing a preview of this report. Please select an access option to view the full report. Hide Options - Show Options + Get unlimited access to all our research with one of our subscription plans. View Subscription Plans or Contact us to purchase this report. Contact us ✕ This document was generated for Other research you may be interested in: Analyst Corner: Holiday Spirit, Bigger Budgets: US Consumers’ Plans for the Fourth of July, Labor Day and the Holiday Season, with Aditya KaushikAnalyst Corner—US Convenience Store Retailing: Battling Headwinds and Seeking New Opportunities, with Sujeet NaikPersonal Financial Sentiment Improves: Weekly US Consumer Sentiment, Week 19, 2025—InfographicHoliday Bites—Prime Big Deal Days, Walmart Deals, Target Circle Week and Kohl’s Cyber Deals: Consumer Participation—Data Graphic
