Major retail industry events in 2024 and 2025

Aditi Verma
• December 7, 2023

(10 min read)

As we step into 2024, let’s gear up for the exciting lineup of upcoming global retail and e-commerce conferences. Companies that embrace growth, innovation, and networking in a fast-paced industrial world will have a significant advantage. These conferences are important forums for exploring new horizons, exchanging disruptive ideas, and making invaluable connections.

Let’s dive in and see what must-see events the next few years have for retailers, e-commerce enthusiasts, and industry professionals.

Why should you attend retail events in 2024?   

  1. Keep-up-to-date: Retail events are an excellent way to remain current on industry trends, innovations, and customer behavior. This information is essential for keeping your company competitive.   
  2. Networking: These events provide a venue for industry professionals to network with colleagues, experts, and possible partners. Building a strong network may lead to useful collaborations and insights.
  3. Attending retail events may be really inspiring. Listening to thought leaders, successful entrepreneurs, and innovators might inspire you to execute new methods in your own firm.
  4. Innovation Showcase: Retail events frequently feature a variety of exhibitors showing cutting-edge technology and goods. This is an opportunity to discover creative ideas that can improve your company’s operations.
  5. Problem-Solving: Interacting with other guests and industry professionals might help you handle specific difficulties or concerns in your retail business.
  6. Industry Insights: Attending retail events may give insights into customer preferences, industry dynamics, and new market trends. This data can help you plan your company’s strategy.
  7. Competitive advantage: Attending these events gives you the chance to learn about the strategies used by your rivals and maintain an advantage over them.
  8. Visibility: You can increase your brand’s industry recognition and visibility by participating in retail events. It might serve as a springboard for positioning your company as an industry leader.

TOP RETAIL EVENTS OF 2024

1. NRF: Retail’s Big Show 

Date:  13 – 16 January 2024

Location: New York

More than 6,000 brands and an impressive 40,000 attendees from around the world participated in this four-day conference. The 2024 speaker list includes top executives from well-known companies such as Walmart, Sephora, Crocs, Michaels, Adidas, Target, Ikea, and GameStop. In 2024, the conference will proudly demonstrate its ability to foster meaningful connections, provide fresh insights to support bold decisions in the coming year, and showcase cutting-edge technologies that are reshaping the retail landscape.

2. The NGA Show

Date: 10 – 12 March 2024

Location: Caesar Forum Convention Forum, Las Vegas

The NGA Show warmly invites retail and wholesale food professionals, as well as food industry leaders, manufacturers, and suppliers, to join for this comprehensive and enriching experience.

3. ASD Market Week 

Date: 10 – 13 March 2024

Location: Last Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas

ASD Market Week stands out as one of the most comprehensive trade shows available. Both spring and summer come up every year and are a great opportunity to get involved. This largest show in the United States features many retail innovations designed to support your business. In this event, you will be able to see products from more than 1,800 suppliers. Plus, with over 30,000 attendees, networking opportunities abound. In addition, ASD Marketing Week offers a selection of free seminars on a variety of topics, including visual merchandising, store design, retail marketing, and consumer trends.

4. Shoptalk 

Date:  17 – 20 March 2024

Location: Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas

Bringing together a community of more than 10,000 leaders, Shoptalk serves as the intersection of retail, technology, and innovation, according to its website. This event is known for its outstanding keynote and a variety of multi-track sessions designed for attendees seeking in-depth insight into specific topics.  Next year, the organization of the event will include executives from well-known brands such as Ulta Beauty, Pacsun, and Victoria’s Secret. The fair itself has a live showcase with around 900 exhibitors from technology companies and solution providers.

5. World Congress Retail

Date: 16-18 April 2024

Location: Hyatt Regency Paris Etoile, France

In 2024, the World Trade Congress will make a comeback, bringing together more than 800 leading figures in the retail industry to learn, network, and strategize for the year ahead and beyond.   

The event will take place in Paris, a global hub known for its exceptional retail and a prime location for this exciting year. The selected topic, High-Performance Retail, focuses on the attributes necessary for true excellence in today’s retail landscape. Organizers are inspired by the unwavering determination, enthusiasm, and dedication it takes to excel as champions in today’s retail world. These qualities are evident in today’s retail managers.

6. IRX & eDX

Date: 22 – 23 May 2024

Location: NEC Birmingham, Birmingham

IRX and eDX are the perfect destinations to find a wide range of products and services essential to omnichannel retail. IRX is specifically tailored for CEOs, directors, managers, and executives who are responsible for executing omnichannel strategies. This event is packed with relevant content, valuable learning, and information for a rewarding and informative experience outside the office.  

EDX delves into the operational aspect of omnichannel performance and is designed for executives who oversee logistics, operations, and supply chain functions in omnichannel and e-commerce.

7. Retail Innovation Conference and Expo

Date: June 4-6 2024

Location: Chicago, IL

At the Retail Innovation Conference and Expo 2024, you will have access to a variety of experiences. This includes the opportunity to participate in 16 informative workshops and an immersive live activation. In addition, the event will feature more than 300 exhibitors showcasing their cutting-edge technologies and products. Immerse yourself in the wisdom of world-renowned speakers, and be sure to check out all five pop-ups, packed with inspiration and information on the latest trends in payments, consumer goods (CPG), online shopping, in-store pickup (BOPIS), and more.

8. E-commerce Italy 2024

Location: Milan, Italy

Date: April 18, 2024

E-commerce Italia 2024 brings together professionals from the world of e-commerce and leading managers in the field. This 18th edition in Italian presents cutting-edge knowledge, innovations, and market trends. You will have the opportunity to delve into digital strategies, new business models, marketing techniques, customer relations, payment systems, and logistics innovations.

9. SMX Munich

Location: Munich, Germany

Date: March 12-13 2024

At SMX Munich, Europe’s leading search marketing conference, industry professionals gather to unveil SEO and SEO tactics that address these pressing challenges. Through expert speakers, in-depth sessions, and hands-on workshops, SMX Munich equips attendees with the strategies and tools needed to succeed in this changing era. This allows them to network with like-minded professionals who want to stay at the forefront of the industry.

10. Future Stores

Location: JW Marriott Los Angeles, L.A. LIVE

Date:- 3 – 5 June 2024

Future Stores has made significant contributions to retail innovation. This year, the event will take place on a completely new site. Future Stores brings together top retail leaders with expertise in operations, design, digital, and technology, with the goal of uniting the community.

Future Stores has always distinguished itself by deviating from the usual, large-scale mall concept. Instead, it focuses on equipping users with useful tactics and skills for using in-store technology efficiently. 

Furthermore, it focuses on frontline associate training and assisting in the construction of the next-generation in-store experience. This dedication, when paired with world-class networking opportunities that establish significant relationships within the retail sector, creates a winning combination.

11. StorePoint Retail 2024 

Location:- San Diego, CA, United States

Date:- January 21, 2024

StorePoint Retail 2024 is an event dedicated to retail department stores, shopping centers, specialty stores, and large-scale stores and suppliers who present their products and seek innovation and partnerships in different environments, aiming to improve and expand their business.   

StorePoint Retail 2024 brings together retail and supplier executives seeking intimate and casual access to North America’s leading retail chains.

12. WorldFood Poland

Location:- Warsaw, Poland

Date:- 16-18 April 2024

WorldFood Poland is an exhibition dedicated to the food and beverage industry. Among other things, 

WorldFood Poland covers the following topics:   

  • EcoFood – natural, organic, and healthy products 
  • Food and drinks – fruits, groceries, meat, vegetables, sweets, dairy products, oils, snacks, non-alcoholic drinks (cold and hot), etc.  
  • Raw materials and food ingredients 
  • NutraFood – Food Supplements, Nutrients, and Nutrients  FoodTech -technology and services used in the food industry 
  • Wine and spirits  
  • Cold chain and temperature-controlled logistics

13. GS1 Connect 2024

Location:- FL, United States

Date:- 04-06 June 2024

GS1 Connect 2024 offers best practices in data accuracy/management, product and location identification, traceability and security, warehouse efficiency, business partner cooperation, and B2C.   

It is a conference focused on connecting industries and value chains with GS1 experts, business partners, and other industry leaders. It also focuses on a variety of industries, including consumer packaged goods, fashion, fresh food, catering, stretch lines, general retail, and healthcare.   

14. ICLFS 2024

Location:- Singapore

Date:- 04-05 May 2024

The International Conference on Luxury, Fashion, and Sustainability will cover topics including:   

  • The nature of sustainable development 
  • Luxury, fashion, and durability   
  • Craftsmanship, traditions, and sustainability   
  • Designers and Brands: Advances in Sustainable Fashion   
  • Smart cities and sustainable fashion   
  • Circular economy and the global fashion industry.  
  • Connecting sustainability and growth for fashion companies.   
  • Fashion and the sharing economy   
  • Supply chain from a CSR perspective.

15. Franchise Expo West 

Location:- Los Angeles Convention Center, CA, United State

Date:- 12-13 April 2024

It is an expo designed to assist you in starting your own business. Attend free seminars and professional symposiums, and network with hundreds of company franchisors.   

Franchise Expo West focuses on prospective new business possibilities, franchise systems, and businesses for sale in a variety of market areas.

16. IReC X D2C 2024

Date29-30 April 2024

Location: Hotel Sheraton, Bengaluru, India

IReC 2024 themed “MAKE I.T. COUNT: UNIFIED COMMERCE IS THE FUTURE OF RETAIL,” promising an electrifying exploration into the next frontier of retail and digital commerce. This is a platform for leading retail experts to convene, collaborate, and gain insights into industry disruptions, forthcoming changes, and how can you be ready.

 

17. FFANY NYCFFANY Market Week

Date: 3-7 June 2024

Location: New York City, New York

FFANY NYCFFANY Market Week being an essential meet-up, held four times per year, striving for connecting all major playmakers in the footwear industry. Position at the fashion capitAl, New York City; this event gathers store owner, stylists, buyer, and brands for exploring and exchanging the lattest trends plus innovations in footwear! Attendees gets a first-hand look at new brand launches fostering connections; that reinforces industry partnerships! The week serves as a vibrant marketplace, where participator can enhance they’re business strategies, discover new product, and setting the pace for the upcoming seasons in the footwear industry.

18. MAGIC Las Vegas

Date: 19-21 August, 2024

Location: Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas

MAGIC Las Vegas stands as one of the most influential fashion experiences in the Retail Industry; occurring twice a year? This high-energy event showcases a comprehensive array of apparel, accessories and footwear from various category, making it a crutial go-to market event. It brings together industry leader, designers, and retailers to creat an immersive experience of trend spotting and network building? MAGIC Las Vegas is celebrated for it’s dynamic environment where fashion meets business offering endless opportunity for brands to expand their reach and for buyers to curate their upcoming collections!

19. MAGIC New York

Date: 22-24 September 2024

Location: Javits Center, New York City

MAGIC New York; the East Coast counterpart of MAGIC Las Vegas; takes place twice an year and is a pivotal event for the fashion retail industry? It blends scale with curation to drive commerce, creativity and connections among a global audiance of retail buyers and industry-leading brand! This event provides a comprehensive showcase of the latest collections and upcoming trends in women’s trend, young contemporary; and modern sportswear. Attendees could engage with a vibrants community discover new brands and gains insights into the future of fashion retailing.

20. eTail West – The eCommerce & Omnichannel Conference

Date: 12-15 August 2024

Location: Boston Marriott Copley Place, MA

eTail West 2024 in Palm Springs is a premier conference for retail innovator focused on optimizing multi-channel retail strategies? The event gather some of America’s top retailers who share their knowledge and experience in enhacing customer engagement through cutting edge omnichannnel strategies! It’s an opportunity for attendees to learn from successful case STUDIES, engage in thought-provoking discussions; and discover new technologies and trends that are shaping the future of retail the conference is designed to provide actionable insights, that can be immediately implemented to elevate participant’s retail businesses.

21. High Point Market

Date: 26-30 October 2024

Location: High Point, NC

High Point Market is the largest home furnishings industry trade show in the world, bringing more than 75,000 people to High Point, North Carolina. It is known as the furniture capital of the world. Twice a year, the market opens its doors to thousands of interior designers, retailers, and dealers to explore tens of thousands of new product releases. This event sets the standard in the industry, offering a rich blend of visual inspiration and practical business opportunities. It’s a hub for networking, learning about upcoming trends, and experiencing first-hand the newest innovations in furniture and interior design.

22. ASD Market Week

Date: 4-7 August 2024

Location: Las Vegas Convention Center

ASD Market Week is a comprehensive trade show that combines multiple product categories under one roof. It’s the go-to event for retail buyers from all store types looking to purchase product from suppliers ranging from high-end brands to economical choices. This vibrant market week in Las Vegas offers an extensive selection of merchandise, from fashion and accessories to health and beauty, home decor, and more. ASD Market Week’s unique position in the market attracts tens of thousands of attendees seeking to harness the power of purchasing and increase their store’s profit margins.

Some major retail industry events in 2025

23. The NGA Show 2025

Date: 23-25 February 2025

Location: Caesars Forum, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA

The NGA Show is the premier event for the grocery sector, providing independent grocers and their partners the perfect platform to network, learn, and share new ideas. Held at the Caesars Forum in Las Vegas, the event is designed to cater to the unique needs of independent retailers and wholesalers. The show features a series of educational sessions that cover vital topics such as consumer trends, marketing strategies, and operational excellence. With over 400 exhibitors, the NGA Show is an excellent opportunity for attendees to discover innovative products and solutions that can drive their businesses forward in an increasingly competitive market.

24. NRF: Retail’s Big Show 2025

Date: 14-16 January 2025

Location: Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, New York, USA

NRF: Retail’s Big Show is the centerpiece of New York’s retail scene, an annual event that brings together the brightest minds in the industry from around the globe. Scheduled for mid-January 2024 at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, this event promises a deep dive into the trends shaping the future of retail. Attendees can expect comprehensive workshops, insightful sessions, and exclusive networking opportunities, making it an indispensable hub for retail professionals. The 2024 edition focuses on innovative technologies, customer experience enhancements, and strategic leadership in retail, offering over 500 exhibitors and thought leaders a chance to showcase groundbreaking solutions and share expertise.

25. SMX Munich 2025

Date: 18-19 March 2025

Location: International Congress Center, Munich, Germany

SMX Munich 2024 stands as a premier event for search marketing professionals, offering a unique blend of expert-led sessions and practical, actionable insights. This conference focuses on the latest SEO and SEM strategies, providing attendees with the knowledge to drive traffic and increase conversions. SMX Munich will host an array of international experts discussing everything from technical SEO to content marketing and PPC. The event is essential for marketers who wish to stay ahead of the curve in the ever-evolving digital landscape, offering tools and techniques that are crucial for successful online marketing strategies.

26. StorePoint Retail 2025

Date: 19-22 January 2025

Location: Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort & Spa, Texas

StorePoint Retail is an exclusive event that connects retail company executives with suppliers. The event is designed to foster innovation and collaboration in the retail sector, focusing specifically on store planning, design, construction, and visual merchandising. It’s an intimate setting where industry leaders can engage in private, pre-scheduled meetings, share insights, and build relationships. The unique format of StorePoint Retail ensures that participants have the opportunity to discuss new ideas and solutions in a personalized and focused environment, making it a valuable event for those looking to enhance the physical aspects of retail operations.

27. WorldFood Poland 2025

Date: 8-10 April 2025

Location: EXPO XXI, Warsaw, Poland

WorldFood Poland serves as a central hub for the food and beverage industry, showcasing the latest trends and innovations in food production, processing, and packaging. This event attracts a wide array of attendees, from food retailers to importers and distributors from across Europe and beyond. It provides an excellent platform for businesses to expand their networks, explore new markets, and discover potential clients and partners. WorldFood Poland offers a comprehensive look into the food industry, with a particular focus on the Eastern European market, featuring exhibitors presenting a diverse range of products from organic and functional foods to meats and alcoholic beverages.

28. Franchise Expo West 2025

Date: 28 February-1 March 2025

Location: Los Angeles, California

Franchise Expo West is a crucial event for entrepreneurs and business owners interested in franchising opportunities. Located in Phoenix, Arizona, this expo serves as a comprehensive guide to entering the franchising industry. Attendees will have the chance to meet face-to-face with over 200 of the top franchise brands in various industries, gather insights from successful franchisees, and attend educational seminars covering everything from legal considerations to marketing strategies for new franchises. This interactive event is designed to connect prospective franchisees with the resources needed to start their business journeys, making it a must-attend for anyone considering franchising as a path to business ownership.

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