NRF 2024: Retail's Big Show announces opening keynoter
The retail world will gather in New York City in January for NRF 2024: Retail's Big Show.
More than 40,000 attendees from nearly 100 countries are expected to attend the annual event, will be held at the Javits Convention Center in New York City Jan. 14 –16. The show will bring together more than 6,200 brands and feature insights from leaders of some of the world’s largest companies. Some 170-plus sessions are on the agenda.
The opening keynote on Sunday will be given by NRF chairman and Walmart U.S. president and CEO John Furner. On Monday, Jan. 15, Earvin “Magic" Johnson will share insights on his storied NBA Hall of Fame career and his success in business, entrepreneurship and philanthropy with a keynote address. He will kick off a national day of reflection and celebration of the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. during the opening session.
“From making plays on the basketball court to now running point in the boardroom, Magic Johnson is unmatched in his expansive career as a professional athlete, businessman and entrepreneur,” stated NRF president and CEO Matthew Shay said. “We are honored to have him share his insights and business acumen from the main stage at Retail’s Big Show.”
The closing keynote will be delivered by collaborators Drew Barrymore and Shae Hong, who will discuss the launch of the Beautiful by Barrymore line of high-performance appliances and cookware and the company's success in omnichannel retail. The two will discuss their respective companies, how they leverage the intersection of innovation and design, and their mission of fostering human connection in the kitchen and home.
Along with Beautiful, Barrymore also established the cosmetics company, FLOWER Beauty, and has beauty, eyewear and hair tools in her portfolio. The award-winning actor also created her own production company, Flower Films.
In addition to the speakers mentioned above, a number of industry leaders are scheduled to appear at NRF 2024. These include:
•BJ’s Wholesale Club chairman and CEO Bob Eddy;
•Walmart U.S. president and CEO John Furner:
•Levi Strauss & Co. president Michelle Gass;
•Ulta Beauty CEO David Kimbell;
•Under Armour president and CEO Stephanie Linnartz;
• Moët Hennessy CEO Philippe Schaus;
•PepsiCo Foods North America CEO Steven Williams;
and others.