We had the pleasure of attending Retail’s Big Show in New York City last month. This event brought together icons and innovators throughout the fashion and retail space for an exciting three day conference. Here are our takeaways.
The future of retail resides in bridging the physical and digital shopping experiences.
In conversation with Marc St Pierre, Bill Forbes (Sr Director of Mobile Engineering at GAP) emphasized the importance of AI in improving customer experience.
Through virtual styling assistants and effective sizing tools, Forbes hopes to answer the most important question in retail: what does the customer actually want. When looking ahead to the future, he expressed intrigue with digital avatars and developments in virtual try on. Panelists emphasized the importance of technology as a tool to improve quality of life and service. According to Forbes, the future of AI in retail is to give customers a better experience, both on their devices as well as in the world around them.
Inspiring customers to engage with a product is the foundation of e-commerce.
Jason Gowans, Senior Vice President & Chief Digital Officer at Levi’s, offered insight into the iconic American denim brand. He emphasized Levi’s DTC priorities, sharing their motto “operate with excellence” when it comes to offering great experience and product throughout the entire selling process. If customers are inspired by the experience of shopping for a pair of jeans, they’re not only more likely to buy a pair, but really love one. This process is key in establishing brand loyalty. When it comes to the future, Levi’s hopes to further establish leadership in the denim size and fit arena.
Technology is the “horse that pulls the wagon” of the fashion industry.
And lastly, our favorite lesson from an industry giant, Tommy Hilfiger. Hilfiger was not only recognized as the 2025 Visionary at NRF, but also inspired thousands throughout his keynote conversation to never stop learning, and always remain curious. Hilfiger shared decades of hard-earned wisdom, from the presence of FAME around his brand (fashion, art, music, and entertainment) to the necessity of building community. He highlighted the importance of always seeking to learn more, imparting the idea that questions are the first step to opportunity. Hilfiger shared his opinion that AI will transform the fashion industry, propelling businesses as technology becomes the “horse that pulls the wagon.” Hilfiger reminded his listeners to never stop asking: what’s next?
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