The cohort cuts across roles and disciplines, reflecting retail’s need for cross-functional skills. / Credit: Palto via Shutterstock

The National Retail Federation has unveiled nrf retail voices 2026, a cohort of 50 retail thought leaders selected with media partner RETHINK Retail.

The group will be featured on NRF’s site and recognised at NRF 2026: retail’s big show, taking place at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City from 11–13 January 2026.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Go deeper with GlobalData

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more

Who is being recognised and why it matters

Now in its second year, nrf retail voices 2026 highlights influential figures from retail and consumer packaged goods whose public contributions and experience are shaping industry debate.

NRF positions the programme as a way to surface practical insight during a period of rapid change driven by AI and shifting consumer behaviour.

The federation confirms the class includes leaders across functions and seniority levels, from established executives to emerging voices.

What to expect at retail’s big show 2026

Honourees receive visibility and curated networking opportunities during retail’s big show 2026, NRF’s flagship event that draws global retailers, technology providers and analysts.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

The event runs 11–13 January 2026 at the Javits Centre, with main-stage sessions, an expo and side programmes on digital, data and store innovation.

The show website lists the dates and venue, and outlines the schedule and speaker lineup that will frame the discussions in which the Retail Voices cohort will participate.

How the programme is positioned by NRF and rethink retail

In statements published alongside the announcement, NRF’s senior vice president of content, Jill Dvorak, describes the honourees as helping peers navigate a fast-moving landscape “in the age of AI”, while RETHINK Retail notes the programme’s aim to amplify real-world insight at pace.

These remarks reflect the initiative’s focus on practical leadership rather than marketing profiles.

See the complete list of the 2026 honourees here.