Shoppers are still seeking out real life connections as Walmart shows up at New York Comic Con 2025
In an online obsessed world, live experiences still matter, and people are continuing to seek out real connections. So says Maya Bowie, VP, Retail Marketing at Walmart.
In a LinkedIn post, she said: “Last week, the Walmart Marketplace Collectibles team brought fandom to life - with signings, livestreams, and an experience that connected community, creativity, and shopping in real-time. With Gary V, limited edition comics, an incredible booth and even outside with the Walmart Delivers truck, Walmart showed up at New York Comic Con.”
She added: “In a world that seems to be always online, live experiences still matter. People are hungry for real connection. In person moments build trust, spark joy, and remind us that our fandoms are more than passions - it’s about being part of something.”
“When culture, community, and commerce come together with authenticity, brands don’t just market, they matter. Fandom shows us that activations have to move beyond the scroll to experiences fans can experience and feel.”
She concluded: “So grateful for our incredible Brand Experiences team and Marketplace Collectibles teams for making this moment possible - a powerful and proud example of culture and commerce working together and modern marketing in motion.”
POV: You just dropped into #MarvelRivals at #MarvelNYCC. #NYCC pic.twitter.com/Htcy9ibqGu
— Marvel Entertainment (@Marvel) October 14, 2025
2025 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS
Real life experiences were a key focus area at the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards.
We received a record number of entries and many fantastic examples of the continued resilience and dynamism of the retail space during hugely challenging times.
For a full rundown of all of the shortlisted entries, click here.
Our 2025 hall of fame entrants were revealed during a sold out event which took place at The HAC in Central London on 16th October and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by award winning comedian, actress and writer Tiff Stevenson.
In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “This is the awards’ fifth year as a physical event. We started off with just 30 people at the South Place Hotel not far from here, then moved to London Bridge Hotel, then The Barbican, and last year RIBA’s HQ in the West End.”
“But I’m conscious of the fact that, to quote the legend that is Taylor Swift, You’re only as hot as your last hit, baby. So, this year we’ve moved to our biggest venue yet, and also pulled in our largest number of entries to date and broken attendance records.”
He added: “This year’s submissions have without doubt been our best yet. To quote one of the judges: The examples of innovative developments across both traditional and digital retail spaces were truly remarkable.”
Congratulations to our winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Tiff Stevenson, and all those who attended our 2025 gathering.
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