Attending NRF 2025 for the first time was an enlightening experience. The National Retail Federation’s annual convention, known as Retail’s Big Show, is a pivotal event focused on the future of the retail industry. This year’s event was a showcase for the innovation, sustainability and business value we bring to the industry.
It was great to see so many booths featuring real small retailers demonstrating innovative ways retailers can connect with customers and run their own businesses. This intersection of technology and operations has demonstrated how the retail industry is changing.
NRF was very active with many companies showcasing their diverse retail experiences. At Cisco’s booth, we focused on three important topics: AI integration, the power of data, and the continued importance of seamless customer experiences.
We’ve had over 50 dynamic theater sessions to help retailers solve their toughest challenges. The sessions covered a wide range of important topics including cybersecurity, digital merchandising, personalized customer engagement, behavioral analytics and sophisticated queue management systems.
The most impressive session for me was the one that focused on AI and data from Splunk and Meraki. The use of AI as an example to detect and prevent organized retail crime was particularly impressive, demonstrating how technology can protect businesses while also keeping customer promises. Meraki dashboards also provided real-time insights critical to decision-making in today’s fast-paced retail environment.
But how does it work?
Splunk’s AI Assistant is designed to assist users with threat investigation and incident management using Splunk’s Query Language (SPL). AI solutions aim to improve security and observability by providing rapid and comprehensive insights.
Splunk’s security products, such as Enterprise Security, SOAR, User Behavior Analytics, and Attack Analyzer, are integrated to provide a unified threat detection, investigation, and response workflow. These products leverage machine learning to detect advanced threats and provide security teams with contextual insights.
The integration of Cisco and Splunk aims to deliver comprehensive security and observability solutions while leveraging AI to provide unprecedented visibility and insight across an organization’s digital footprint. The combination is expected to improve customer and employee experiences by providing smooth and secure operations.
Now let’s talk about the exhilarating experience. I personally am not a coffee drinker, but most people are. This was evident at the Cisco booth where we showcased a new way for mobile ordering. Customers can now take advantage of a new feature in Cisco’s Communications Platform as a Service (CPaaS) to simply enter personalized orders in plain text. This is a big step up from the previous multiple-choice format for each drink option. These innovations enhance the customer journey by making it more intuitive, efficient and personalized.
But how does it work?
Webex CPaaS solutions include the ability to automate and orchestrate customer interactions across multiple channels. The platform provides tools such as programmable communication APIs, visual flow builders, low-code capabilities, and integration with existing systems to enhance customer experience. Another Splunk integration was on display, once again showing trends in what customers were ordering, wait times, and most popular drinks (the latte was the winner!).
Another key technology on full display at NRF (and now also available from Cisco) is Wi-Fi 7. Wi-Fi 7 highlights the potential for faster, more reliable connectivity in retail spaces. These advancements will transform the way retailers interact with their customers, providing a seamless, connected experience.
But what does this mean for retail customers?
Wi-Fi 7 improves the retail customer experience by increasing speed and reliability, reducing latency, and improving client wireless capabilities. These improvements provide more seamless access to product information, real-time promotions, and personalized recommendations for customers using mobile devices in stores. Additionally, Wi-Fi 7’s advanced features support sophisticated security systems for real-time video surveillance and threat detection, which can enhance store security and reduce financial losses. Overall, Wi-Fi 7 can contribute to a more efficient and secure retail environment, ultimately improving customer satisfaction and loyalty.
NRF 2025 was a testament to the transformative power of technology in retail. As a newcomer, it was an invaluable opportunity to learn, connect, and envision the future of the industry.
I would like to thank the Javits Center management for giving us a tour of the facility after the show. Javits and Cisco continue to work together to ensure Javits delivers a premium connected experience at every event, all year long. After the showcase of excellence we experienced at NRF, I know the future of our partnership is bright!
I look forward to applying the lessons I have learned to my U.S. commercial business and beyond!
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