NRF news and archive

Consumer spending to drive retail growth through 2026, NRF reports

The National Retail Federation (NRF) has forecast retail sales to grow 4.4 percent in 2026, reaching 5.6 trillion dollars, pointing to continued consumer resilience despite an uncertain global backdrop. Developed with Oxford Economics, the projection exceeds the 3.6 percent average annual growth seen over the past decade, excluding pandemic...

Retail

NRF predicts record spend for Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is fast approaching, meaning shoppers are likely already on the hunt for meaningful gifts and experiences. After strong spending over the festive period, the National Retail Federation (NRF) is anticipating continued positivity, projecting a new high in sales for Valentine’s Day. The organisation said consumer spending is...

Featured

Retail

NRF 2026: Five tech start-ups reshaping retail landscape

As the global fashion industry navigates a transformative period defined by technological integration and sustainability mandates, the NRF 2026 Innovators Showcase has emerged as a critical hub for next-generation solutions. Taking place at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York from 11 to 13 January, the event highlights companies...

Retail

Thanksgiving weekend sees record numbers as promotions sway consumers

A record number of shoppers were reported to have turned out for the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, as compelling promotions and an extended five-day window encouraged engagement. The National Retail Federation’s (NRF) annual consumer survey, released alongside Prosper Insights & Analytics, recorded 202.9 million consumers across Thanksgiving Day...

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Business

Despite doubts over economy, Americans set for record holiday spending

Americans are expected to spend a record amount over the holiday season, despite lingering worries in the world's biggest economy about stubborn inflation, tariffs and the knock-on effects of the government shutdown. "Consumers remain pretty concerned about inflation and, there's no doubt, about where prices are going," Mark Mathews, chief...

Retail

US holiday sales forecast to surpass one trillion dollars for first time

The US’ National Retail Federation (NRF) has outlined its annual holiday forecast for the November and December shopping season, during which it is anticipating record figures despite notable headwinds throughout the year. According to the organisation, retail sales for the final two months of 2025 will grow between 3.7 and 4.2 percent compared...

Schools

Top five finalists announced for NRF Foundation Next Generation Scholarship

The NRF Foundation has named the five finalists for its annual Next Generation Scholarship, an initiative that recognizes outstanding undergraduate students pursuing careers in retail. Since its launch in 2014, the program has awarded more than 800,000 US dollars to support future retail leaders. This year’s finalists are Shayma Banks (Columbia...

Retail

Seasonal clothing sales rise in September despite wider slow down

Retail sales for September dropped marginally on a seasonal basis as consumers halted purchases following the back-to-school period. According to figures issued by the CNBC/NRF Retail Monitor, retail sales in the US declined 0.66 percent seasonally adjusted month-over-month, however rose 5.42 percent unadjusted year-over-year. Core retail sales,...

Retail

US consumer spend for Halloween predict to reach record 13.1 billion USD

Consumers across the nation are expected to go all out this Halloween, as the National Retail Federation (NRF) predicts spending for the spookiest holiday to reach a record-breaking 13.1 billion US dollars. Based on the annual consumer survey conducted by Prosper Insights & Analytics, this is close to one billion dollars more than the previous...

Business

How Tamaris uses AI for Predictive Pricing: a conversation with 7Learnings at NRF Retail Big Show

Paris - At the NRF Retail Big Show, FashionUnited spoke with Eiko van Hettinga, Co-Founder of Berlin-based tech company 7Learnings, which provides AI-powered predictive pricing software for retailers. He explained why pricing is one of the biggest levers for profitability, how predictive pricing works in practice, and how brands like Tamaris are...

Retail

How Action uses AI to drive growth and efficiency: NRF Retail Big Show

Paris - At the NRF Retail Big Show in Paris, Action chief executive officer (CEO) Hajir Hajji spoke about the company's growth strategy and how technology, including artificial intelligence (AI), is being implemented to support its rapid expansion. The Dutch discount retailer, founded in 1993, has grown from a family-owned business to a European...

Retail

US: Summer sales boost spending as consumers brace for tariff impact on prices

Consumer spending was up in July as summer sales helped drive forward activity following a more lacklustre June. According to the CNBC/NRF Retail Monitor, total retail sales in the US, excluding automobiles and gasoline, rose 1.45 percent seasonally adjusted month-over-month. Unadjusted year-over-year sales increased 5.89 percent, compared to a...