NRF Big Show 2011: Crystal Ball 2011

“I am expecting a positive mood shift at NRF from the ‘cautiously guarded’ mood of 2010 and the ‘doom and gloom’ mood of 2009. I expect retailers will be actively looking for innovation and growth ideas with a special emphasis on making the store a key focus in driving an integrated shopping experience by making it an equal partner (through deep integration) with social media communities, e-commerce sites, and mobile-based experiences to make shopping capabilities available to consumers regardless of their location.”   

“We are encouraged by strong signs in retail that we are in fact recovering as an economy.  Comps are way above last year, and consumer confidence seems to be on the rise, despite the housing market. We see ourselves in the midst of a transition in shopping habits and despite declines in the department store segment, our business has flourished across all channels. We intend to continue to capitalize on this by continuing to deliver a value-rich product for a competitive price, expanding our footprint, and leveraging efficiencies in our operating model.   

“The 2011 year should be one of the best for retailers since 2007. Our data shows that consumers are ready and willing to spend again. Their spending habits have changed, but the desire to buy is alive and well. As always, a new year brings new technology, and I expect further innovation in the mobile commerce arena in 2011. But for consumers, it’s never about the technology, but rather how it helps them be a smarter, faster or better buyer.”