Focus on AI and sustainability as NRF 2026: Retail's Big Show Europe returns in September

NRF 2026: Retail's Big Show Europe will return on 15th-17th September for its second edition.

Following NRF Retail’s Big Show in New York City and NRF Retail’s Big Show Asia Pacific in Singapore, the Paris event will explore the theme "The Next Now," examining the transformations reshaping European and global retail today and in the years ahead.

Against a backdrop of technological acceleration, the rise of artificial intelligence, constantly evolving consumer expectations, and sustainability imperatives, NRF 2026: Retail's Big Show Europe will bring together retail decision-makers to share practical insights, case studies, and operational solutions.

Over three days, it will focus on the industry’s key growth areas including intelligent supply chains, personalised customer journeys, circular design, and cross-border collaborations.

The event will bring together more than 12,000 attendees representing 4,200 innovative brands, 525 exhibitors, and 200 speakers from more than 60 countries, along with more than 100 exclusive sessions. It will showcase the latest advancements in retail digitalisation, customer experience, and operational performance across its exhibition space. Experiential formats, such as guided tours and visits to Parisian concept stores, aim to enhance the attendee experience.

There will also be keynote presentations from leading global executives and breakout sessions to explore practical case studies from around the globe.

2026 RTIH Innovation Awards

AI will be a key focus area at the 2026 RTIH Innovation Awards.

The awards are now open for entries and celebrate global retail technology innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.

Our winners will be revealed at the 2026 RTIH Innovation Awards Ceremony, taking place at The HAC in Central London on Wednesday, 4th November.

Check out our 2025 winners here.

Our 2025 hall of fame entrants were revealed during a sold out event which took place at The HAC 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.