NRF 2019: Retail’s Big Show Opens Its DoorsNRF 2019: Retail’s Big Show Opens Its Doors

The National Retail Federation’s NRF 2019: Retail's Big Show kicked off this weekend in New York City.

The biggest names in retail, data analysis and technology descended on the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center to discuss the future of retail. An official partner of the event, the Global Licensing Group, showcased how licensing programs can drive the consumer experience and inject an emotional connection with brands and products.

In the GLG lounge located in the Crystal Palace, the GLG is offering attendees a chance to create their own furry friend at the Build-A-Bear Workshop experience and to celebrate "Sesame Street"'s 50th Anniversary by taking a picture with their favorite characters.

On Sunday, Jan. 13, the show floor was abuzz with retail industry professionals asking the question "What's next?" Tech giants including Samsung booth #2337), Google (booths #4255 and #5057), Microsoft (booth #3301) and others showcased new retail technologies including data powered customer experience programs, cloud-based data storage, AI retail solutions, intelligent supply chain options and more.

E-commerce heavyweights Amazon and Alibaba Group were also in attendance. Amazon Web Services (booths #1832 and #1341) invited attendees inside a replica of its Boundless Store concept. Alibaba (booth #1331) offered a glimpse at its supermarket chain Hema under the banner Freshippo. AI-driven robot waiters delivered trays of “food” to curious observers, giving a glimpse at the future of dining services.

In the NRF Innovation lab, robots continued to draw an audience. IAM Robotics (Innovation Lab booth #7152) offered an interactive experience with its robot, Madison, an autonomous machine that offers a solution to direct fulfillment.

The Girls' Lounge, powered by the Female Quotient, hosted experiential pop-ups conferences and more with a focus on female leadership. Featured panelists included designer and author Nicky Hilton who spoke at "The Evolution of Retail: How Technology and Women are Disrupting the Way we Shop."

Headline speakers of the day included Diane Dietz, chief executive officer, Rodan & Fields, who appeared on a panel about pay quality; Jeremy King, chief technology officer, Walmart who spoke about Walmart’s expansion through its grocery delivery service; Rodney Mullen, chief executive officer, Kroger and; Chris Baldwin, chairman, president and chief executive officer, BJ's Wholesale Club.

NRF 2019: Retail's Big Show takes place through Tuesday, Jan. 15.

Stay tuned to License Global’s social channels for updates from the show floor.