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 Retail 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
Event CoverageNRF 2026: Retail’s Big Show—Day 1—Everything Agentic, Plus Digital Twins, Robotics and Smart Stores John Mercer, Head of Global Research and Managing Director of Retail Research January 12, 2026 Reasons to ReadDiscover how AI and digital transformation are reshaping the retail landscape in 2026, with day one insights from NRF 2026: Retail’s Big Show. Read this report to discover answers to these and other questions: What is the next evolution of AI-driven retail, and how does it impact the shopping journey? How are industry leaders like PepsiCo, PayPal, and Wayfair approaching end-to-end digital transformation with AI? What role do partnerships play in accelerating AI adoption across retail operations? How can network connectivity, including 5G, influence the success of agentic AI in retail environments? What impact are digital twins and robotics having on physical retail spaces and in-store operations? Companies mentioned in this report include: AWS, dm-drogerie markt, Microsoft, Nvidia, PayPal, PepsiCo, Siemens, Shopify, T-Mobile, Target, The Home Depot, The Children’s Place, URBN, Walmart and Wayfair. Data in this report include: AI-driven platform growth; network connectivity statistics; operational efficiency gains through digital twins; AI adoption rates in retail. Other relevant research: 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
Event CoverageA Guide to NRF 2026 Retail’s Big Show: The Next Now—Key Insights Shaping the Future of Retail Madhav Pitaliya, Analyst Sector Lead: Anand Kumar, Associate Director of Retail Research January 12, 2026 Reasons to ReadThe Coresight Research team will attend NRF 2026: Retail’s Big Show in New York City, taking place during January 11–13, 2026. NRF: Retail’s Big Show is the leading event for retail professionals, bringing together top innovators, thought leaders, brands, and retailers to explore emerging trends, technologies, and strategies shaping the future of retail. Read our comprehensive guide to ensure you don’t miss out on key sessions covering AI-driven personalization, omnichannel strategies, sustainability in retail, and business model innovation. Companies mentioned in this report include: Google, Gymshark, LVMH, PepsiCo, REI, Ulta Beauty, Walmart and others. 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
Analyst CornerAnalyst Corner: US Apparel and Footwear Retailing—Key Distribution Channel Shifts in 2026 Aditya Kaushik, Analyst January 11, 2026 Reasons to ReadUnderstand the key channel shifts shaping US apparel and footwear market in 2026. In this week’s Analyst Corner, we discuss the shifting dynamics across different retail formats and how channel shifts will shape the apparel and footwear landscape moving forward. This document was generated for
Deep DiveRetail 2026: 10 Trends in Retail Technology John Harmon, CFA, Managing Director of Technology Research January 10, 2026 Reasons to ReadThis report will answer the following questions: How does agentic commerce change the way we shop online and offline? In what ways can agentic AI suggest options when a supply chain disruption occurs? How are AI advancements improving warehouse simulations and operations? What role do large-language models play in hyper-personalization? How can data from in-store ads be connected to customer actions through AI and sensors? What are the benefits of accurate, real-time inventory counts for retailers? How are associate mobile computers with AI and computer vision transforming retail operations? In what ways does advanced AI in kiosks prevent losses and errors? How do cloud, edge, and device computing work together to support AI-powered retail technologies? What role does data collected through sensors play in improving the omnichannel experience? Data in this research report include: The reasons shoppers cited for leaving a store without making a purchase. Companies mentioned in this report include: Advanced Micro Devices, Albertsons, Amazon, Avery Dennison, BJ’s Wholesale Club, Blue Yonder, Google, Honeywell, Kinaxis, Kroger, Manhattan Associates, NVIDIA, Qualcomm, Salesforce, Sensormatic, Shopify, Target, Walmart, Zebra Technologies This report is made available to non-subscribers of Coresight Research through its sponsorship by Intel. Other relevant research: 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
Event CoverageCES 2026: The Keynotes—AI Everywhere: In Factories, Wearables, and Industrial and Consumer Products John Harmon, CFA, Managing Director of Technology Research January 9, 2026 Reasons to ReadDiscover how CES 2026 is setting the stage for the next wave of AI-powered innovation across industries. Read this report to discover answers to these and other questions: What breakthroughs did NVIDIA’s Vera Rubin chipset bring to AI performance? How is AMD enabling “AI Everywhere” and what does that mean for consumers and businesses? What role does Qualcomm foresee for agentic AI devices like smartwatches and mobile phones? How is Siemens’ digital twin technology improving factory operations and chip production? What new AI-powered products were introduced by Lenovo and Caterpillar at CES 2026? Companies mentioned in this report include: NVIDIA, AMD, Qualcomm, Siemens, Lenovo, Caterpillar 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
Store TrackerWeekly UK Store Openings and Closures Tracker 2026, Week 1: Claire’s, LK Bennett and The Original Factory Shop File for Administration Risheek Dandekeri Sector Lead: John Mercer, Head of Global Research and Managing Director of Retail Research January 9, 2026 Reasons to ReadKeep updated on the latest trends in the UK retail sector, where the number of new store openings is outpacing closures in 2026 Read this report to discover answers to these and other questions: Which retailers have been responsible for the rise in openings and closures this week, and what factors are influencing these decisions? How do the store openings and closures in 2026 compare to 2025, and what are the key trends driving the year on year changes? Which retailers lead UK store opening and closure in 2026? Companies mentioned in this report include: Alo Yoga, Antler, Bellamianta, B&M, Bershka, Cardzone, Crew Clothing, Deichmann, Dreams, Fabletics, Footasylum, Frasers Group Plc, Free People, Garage, Greggs, H & M, Holland & Barrett, Home Bargains, Iceland, IKEA, JD Sports Fashion, Jo Malone, Jollyes, Jolly’s, KENJI, Kookaï, Lefties, Lego, Mango, Marks & Spencer, Morrisons, New Look, Oliver Bonas, Primark, Quiz, R.M.Williams, River Island, Rodd & Gunn, Sainsbury’s, Saint+Sofia, Screwfix, Sephora, Skims, Sosandar, Stradivarius, Superdry, Tesco, The Entertainer, The Food Warehouse, The Original Factory Shop, The Works, Uniqlo, Waitrose, White Company, Wilko. Data in this report include: weekly totals of UK store closures and openings for 2025 and 2024; retailer-level breakdowns of announced versus confirmed closures/openings. Other relevant research: The full collection of Store Tracker reports, including our US-focused series. The US and UK Store Tracker Databank is the definitive resource for information on store openings and closures by sector in the US and UK retail industries. The Corporate and Financial Developments Databank includes details of management changes, financial guidance updates, retail and tech layoffs and capital raised by major retail companies. The Retail Bankruptcies Databank details bankruptcies of US and UK retail companies, restaurants and gyms since March 2020. 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
Store TrackerWeekly US Store Openings and Closures Tracker 2026, Week 1: Retailers Announce More Than 1,000 Store Openings for 2026 Risheek Dandekeri Sector Lead: John Mercer, Head of Global Research and Managing Director of Retail Research January 9, 2026 Reasons to ReadDiscover which retailers are contributing to the surge in US store openings in 2026, and which ones continue to close stores. Read this report to discover answers to these and other questions: Which retailers have led the way in the most recent store closures and openings throughout the US? How do the trends in store closures and openings in 2026 compare to those in 2025, and what insights can be drawn from these patterns? Which retailers lead US store opening and closure in 2026? Companies mentioned in this report include: 7‑Eleven, Abercrombie & Fitch Co., Aerie, Aldi, American Signature Furniture, Aritzia, Barnes & Noble, Bass Pro Shops, BJ’s Wholesale Club, Blue Elephant, Boot Barn, Buc‑ee’s, Burlington Stores, Casey’s, Destination XL Group, Dillard’s, Dollar General, Dollar Tree, Five Below, Guess?, H&M Hennes & Mauritz AB, Hästens, Haverty Furniture, Hermès, IKEA, J.Jill, Jack & Jones, JCPenney, JD Sports, Jessica McCormack, L.L.Bean, Macy’s, Miss A, Natural Grocers, Nordstrom, Ocean State Job Lot, Olive Young, Ollie’s Bargain Outlet, Pacsun, REI, Renys, Saks Off 5th, Salomon, Scheels, Snow Peak, T&T Supermarket, The Buckle, The Kroger Co., Tilly’s, Torrid, Tractor Supply Company, The TJX Companies, Inc., Ulta Beauty, Uniqlo, Urban Outfitters, Vallarta Supermarkets, Victoria’s Secret, Walgreens Boots Alliance, Wayfair, WH Smith and Zara. Data in this report include: weekly totals of US store closures and openings for 2026 and 2025; retailer-level breakdowns of announced versus confirmed closures/openings; total store counts by retailer; total US retail bankruptcies year to date. Other relevant research: The full collection of Store Tracker reports, including our UK-focused series The US and UK Store Tracker Databank is the definitive resource for information on store openings and closures by sector in the US and UK retail industries. The Corporate and Financial Developments Databank includes details of management changes, financial guidance updates, retail and tech layoffs and capital raised by major retail companies. The Retail Bankruptcies Databank details bankruptcies of US and UK retail companies, restaurants and gyms since March 2020. 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
Deep DiveRetail 2026: 10 Trends Driving Retail Media Madhav Pitaliya, AnalystSujeet Naik, Analyst Sector Lead: Steven Winnick, Vice President—Innovator Services January 9, 2026 Reasons to ReadUnlock the future of retail media with insights into the global market, projected to grow at a 14.0% year-over-year pace through 2026. Dive into 10 game-changing trends that are shaping the future of advertising. How are RMNs expanding beyond sales incrementality to support brand-building with AI-driven campaigns? Why is in-store media becoming a game-changer for marketing strategies? How is CTV transforming retail media with shoppable features and closed-loop measurement? How is AI optimizing ad formats, targeting and workflow automation? How are retailers using first-party data to gain a competitive edge in a privacy-first environment? How can retailers and brands improve performance by integrating marketing, sales and technology teams? Companies mentioned in this report include: Amazon, Best Buy, Frasers Group, Kroger, Rockbot, Ulta Beauty and Walmart. This report is sponsored by Rockbot, a leader in in-store media solutions that empowers businesses with audio, digital signage, retail promotions and more. 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
Deep DiveUnlocking Success in Retail Merchandise Planning To Drive Sales and Profitability Manik Bhatia, Head of Cobranded Research Sector Lead: Steven Winnick, Vice President—Innovator Services January 9, 2026 Reasons to ReadReady to drive sales and profitability with smarter, more agile retail planning? This report unveils how Merchandise Financial Planning (MFP) software can optimize inventory, enhance customer-centric assortments, and improve financial performance. Learn why it’s a must-have tool for modern retail businesses navigating economic uncertainty and rapidly shifting consumer behaviors. Discover how AI-powered MFP solutions can elevate your planning strategy with cutting-edge machine learning algorithms, boosting forecast accuracy, streamlining workflow, and even enhancing personalization—but are you tapping into its full potential? Below are the key reasons to read this research: Unlock Financial Benefits: 65% of retailers cite improved financial performance with MFP software, yielding an average 6% increase in gross sales and 1.1 percentage points in margin expansion. This solution is proven to create immediate ROI—up to 300%-400% within just one year. Tackle MFP Execution Challenges: 49% of retailers struggle with lack of real-time data, which leads to inventory mismatches and poor decision-making. This report highlights the critical role of data centralization in overcoming these obstacles and driving faster, more informed decisions. Enhance Forecast Accuracy with AI: Learn how AI and machine learning can transform your merchandise planning. From predictive analytics to scenario planning, AI can unlock advanced capabilities and enhance your supply chain resilience. Learn Practical Strategies to Optimize MFP: Find out how to build agile data architectures, improve collaboration across functions, and leverage AI for dynamic adjustments, keeping your business relevant and responsive to market shifts. Seize the Market Opportunity: The global MFP software market is growing fast, expected to reach $5.8 billion by 2030 with a CAGR of 9.1%. Stay ahead of the curve by adopting the right tools that optimize your financial and merchandising plans. This report is made available to non-subscribers of Coresight Research through its sponsorship by Board, an enterprise retail planning platform. Other relevant research: Video: Unlocking Success in Retail Merchandise Planning To Drive Sales and Profitability 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
Deep Dive2026 Retail Predictions: China—Five Pillars for Moderate Growth Amid a Tough Environment Charlie Poon, Analyst Sector Lead: Anand Kumar, Associate Director of Retail Research January 8, 2026 Reasons to ReadDiscover five pillars shaping China’s retail landscape in 2026—from policy-driven consumption and AI innovation to instant retail, experiential formats and RaaS-fueled revenue diversification. This report is part of our global 2026 Retail Predictions series. Read this report to discover answers to these and other questions: How will policy-backed trade-in and subsidy programs support moderate but resilient retail sales growth in 2026 and beyond? How will GenAI and agentic AI, including Alibaba’s Qwen and AI shopping assistants, transform customer journeys, personalization and operational efficiency across Chinese retail ecosystems? How are experiential, service-led formats like Pangdonglai’s high-service supermarkets reshaping the role of physical stores amid rising vacancy rates and new space in cities such as Guangzhou, Chengdu and Hangzhou? How will intensified competition in instant retail, last-mile delivery and logistics automation—including the deployment of humanoid robots like UBTech’s Walker S2—impact margins, speed and consumer convenience? How are AI-driven advertising, retail media and RaaS creating high-margin revenue pools as China’s ad market grows and instant retail expands from about ¥1 trillion to more than ¥2 trillion by 2030? Data in this research report include: China total retail sales forecasts through 2029; outcomes from the 2025 national trade-in program; usage and adoption metrics for Alibaba’s Qwen and AI shopping assistants; retail property vacancy and new supply indicators; robotics deployment and order data; and projections for China’s ad market and instant retail market size through 2030. Companies mentioned in this report include: Alibaba Group, JD.com, Meituan, Pangdonglai, UBTech and Walmart China/Sam’s Club. Other relevant research: Visit the Coresight Research Retail Technology Hub to explore reports, data and competitive landscapes on retail technology, AI and automation. The China Retail Sales Databank brings together retail sales data to help you understand the trajectory of retail in China and is updated monthly. The Market Sizes Databank offers an overview of key retail markets and sectors, including forward projections for China’s retail and e-commerce segments. 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
Deep DiveConsumer Sentiment Largely Holds Steady in December After November Highs: China Consumer Survey Insights Madhav Pitaliya, Analyst January 8, 2026 Reasons to ReadThe Coresight Research monthly China Consumer Survey Insights series takes a regular temperature check on Chinese consumers’ behaviors and sentiment, based on exclusive proprietary survey data. In this research report, we present findings from our latest weekly surveys, with the most recent undertaken on December 29, 2025. We spotlight developments in consumer sentiment on the economic and financial outlooks. Read this report to discover answers to these key questions: How has consumer sentiment in China evolved in December, and what do recent peaks in optimism indicate about consumer expectations for the upcoming retail season? What role did Singles’ Day play in shaping short-term optimism, and how do the post-event dips reflect evolving consumer confidence? What are the key consumer behaviors and purchase trends observed in the weeks leading up to and after Singles’ Day? Data in this research report includes: Consumers’ expectations for economic conditions and personal finances over the next 12 months, showing how optimism has evolved. Changes in personal financial situations compared to 12 months ago, shedding light on shifts in consumer wealth perceptions. Consumer activities over the past two weeks, highlighting engagement levels and emerging trends. Purchasing behaviors, with insights into what consumers are buying in-store and online during the survey period. Other relevant research: Read the full series of China Consumer Survey Insights The Coresight Research China Retail Sales Databank brings together retail sales data to help you understand the trajectory of retail in China. Interested in more consumer survey analysis? Check out our US Consumer Survey Insights series. 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
Deep DivePowering Next-Gen Retail Stores with Advanced Network Connectivity Manik Bhatia, Head of Cobranded Research Sector Lead: Steven Winnick, Vice President—Innovator Services January 8, 2026 Reasons to ReadUnlock the future of retail with the latest insights into how advanced network connectivity is revolutionizing store operations. AI-driven, connected, and autonomous retail environments are no longer just a vision—they’re a reality, and this report will show you how to stay ahead. Discover how weak or outdated networks are holding back your sales, profitability, and customer experience, and why upgrading to cutting-edge technologies like 5G SA can unlock the next level of performance. Below are the key reasons to read this research: Uncover the Real Impact: See how network connectivity challenges (like high latency and insufficient bandwidth) are directly impacting your core business functions—inventory management, retail media, and even customer management—costing retailers an average 5.8% of sales. Learn How 5G Can Power Your Future: Get the scoop on why 5G SA (Standalone), though still underutilized, is the key to scalable AI applications, unified shopper experiences, and boosted staff productivity—a game-changer for modern retail. Maximize ROI on Your Tech Investments: Retailers are pouring money into AI, IoT, and store intelligence technologies. This report shows you why investing in strong network connectivity is the foundation for ensuring these technologies perform at peak efficiency and drive fast return on investment. Overcome the Connectivity Crisis: With 87% of retailers facing interruptions in real-time data collection due to network outages, this report highlights how a modernized network will strengthen your ability to gather critical insights, streamline inventory, dynamic pricing, and enhance the customer journey. This report is made available to non-subscribers of Coresight Research through its sponsorship by T-Mobile. 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
Insight Report2026 Retail Predictions: India—Five Pillars Shaping the Next Phase of Retail Growth Madhav Pitaliya, Analyst Sector Lead: Anand Kumar, Associate Director of Retail Research January 7, 2026 Reasons to ReadDiscover the five forces set to redefine Indian retail in 2026—from quick commerce to expanding non-metro consumption and AI-led transformation. This report is part of our global 2026 Retail Predictions series. Read this report to discover answers to these and other questions: How are India’s quick commerce leaders shifting focus from growth at all costs to profitability through higher AOV and tighter cost control? Why are Tier-3 and 4 cities becoming the next frontier for retail expansion, and how are major players localizing formats and assortments? In what ways will improved macroeconomic conditions, such as lower inflation and better credit access, lift consumer spending across India? How is the rise of agentic AI changing the game in retail, enabling end-to-end automation in discovery, checkout and service? Why is the supply chain emerging as the key competitive advantage in Indian retail—and how are leaders investing to stay ahead? Companies mentioned in this report include: Blinkit, Swiggy Instamart, Trent (Zudio), Reliance Retail (Yousta, Reliance Digital), ABFRL (Style Up), DMart (Avenue Supermarts), Flipkart, Amazon India Data in this report include: India’s projected total retail sales and YoY growth; quick commerce profitability and dark store expansion; retail footprint growth in Tier-3/4 cities; macroeconomic indicators including GDP, inflation, and liquidity; retailer adoption and deployment of agentic AI solutions. 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
Event CoverageCES 2026: Pre-Conference Insights—Tech Markets, Key Technologies and Innovative New Products John Harmon, CFA, Managing Director of Technology Research January 6, 2026 Reasons to ReadOur report from the pre-conference sessions at CES 2026 includes: Tech markets to decelerate slightly but remain solid AI everywhere remains a persistent and growing theme Longevity means quality of life as much as long life Industrial technology is a growing focus at CES CES unveiled showcases compelling emerging consumer electronics products Data in this research report are: The market forecast for the US consumer electronics industry in 2026. Companies mentioned in this report include: NVIDIA, Qualcomm. Other relevant research: Playbook: GenAI to Agentic AI—From Pilot to Powerhouse AWS Re:Invent 2025: Five Insights from a Flood of Agentic AI Announcements by Amazon 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
