TOPSS Focuses on the Store

The Las Vegas climate is about to get even hotter as retailers make their way to America’s playground for the fourth annual Technology & Operations Store Summit (TOPSS) next month.

The event, themed “Where Technology and Operations Merge,” will be held Oct. 3-5, at the Red Rock Casino Resort Spa in Las Vegas. The conference, sponsored by Chain Store Age and Retail Technology Quarterly, expects to welcome a delegation comprised of retailers, suppliers, analysts and technology partners all ready “to share business ideas,” said Cathy Hotka, principal, Cathy Hotka & Associates, Washington D.C. Hotka co-created the show program.

TOPSS’ “meeting” format will provide a relaxed setting that encourages intimate, serious discussions among peers. “What retailers of all flavors are most concerned about is the store and issues that affect store-level business,” Hotka said.

“TOPSS is the only show that has ‘Store’ in the name, and focuses on the role logistics, supply chain and information technology play at store level. It clearly attracts a diverse cross section of people.”

A strong session agenda promises to spark many ideas along these lines. With an emphasis on the store, the show promises to educate attendees on an array of topics, including point-of-sale, preparations for the PCI (payment-card industry) standard, loyalty and loss prevention.

Attendees will have their own individual agendas, but TOPSS promises to deliver a common goal: “to get business leaders to share their passion about the store and the shopping experience,” Hotka said.

“These retailers are sure to energize each other,” she noted. “Discussing what makes them passionate about the store experience will enhance the pathway for growth.”