👋 Welcome to NRF 2025!

It’s Day 1 of NRF 2025, and Retail’s Big Show is living up to its name! The buzz on the show floor is electric—packed sessions, nonstop conversations, and bold ideas from retail leaders set the tone for what’s shaping up to be an unforgettable NRF.

Let’s dive into the top highlights from Day 1—you won’t want to miss a thing!

⚡️ Streamlined in 2025: Janie and Jack’s Strategy

Some kick off the New Year with resolutions, while others embrace dry January—but at Janie and Jack, the focus is on an ambitious plan to streamline processes and empower store teams in 2025. Spoiler alert: It’s the real deal.

Andraya Robinson, Project Manager of Store Operations & Communications, is leading the charge. With her expertise in engagement and a talent for reimagining seamless operations, Andraya has translated bold goals into tangible results.

A standout initiative? The introduction of a structured communication schedule designed to eliminate noise and sharpen focus. “Our mission is to keep things streamlined! I like to keep things simple,” says Robinson. “Zipline is great because it created a one-stop shop environment for our stores. And there are even more tools that Zipline has that I’m super excited to tap into.”

By transforming workflows and creating bandwidth for exceptional customer service, Janie and Jack has set a new standard for operational clarity. Prioritizing execution and meaningful engagement over superficial metrics, Robinson’s approach continues to inspire NRF attendees to rethink and refine their own operations.

🪑 Building the Perfect Framework for Engagement with American Signature Inc.

Rob Coultrip, Store Operations at ASI, shared how American Signature Inc. (ASI) has leveraged Zipline to create a unified and empowered workforce by fostering alignment and engagement across its stores.

“Our communication used to be spread across multiple channels—email, phone, text messages, various apps, carrier pigeons smoke signals..we tried it all,” says Robert Coultrip, American Signature Inc.

 “Team members needed the right information at the right time. We lacked a system to efficiently manage and share this information across the organization. Then, Zipline became our solution. Rolling out a new platform designed for everyone posed a challenge, but Zipline’s simplicity and ease of use made it accessible for all, ensuring a seamless transition.”

With over 30 years of experience, including two decades at Abercrombie & Fitch, Rob has built his career on simplifying processes and fostering team alignment. At ASI, he has helped transition from fragmented communications to a single, unified platform that drives collaboration, clarity, and execution.

By streamlining communication and fostering transparency, ASI has empowered their teams to focus on what matters most: delivering exceptional customer experiences.

🥯 The fuel you knead for the expo floor

SO. MANY. BAGELS! 

There’s no better way to power through NRF than with a bagel from Tompkins Square Bagels. Swing by Booth #5157 for the ultimate New York breakfast—crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and schmeared to perfection.

While you’re there, meet retail innovators from Pacsun, Warby Parker, Five Below, and more to kickstart your day with ideas just as fresh as the bagels.

🤖 Evolving Retail: Insights from Day 1 Thought Leadership

Unsurprisingly, Day 1 of NRF 2025 brought bold thought leadership from retail experts addressing the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of the industry. From shifting customer expectations to groundbreaking advancements in technology, leaders shared actionable strategies for innovation and resilience. Here are the key themes from the day:

Evolving Consumer Expectations

Shoppers today demand more than convenience—they prioritize authenticity, alignment with values, and personalized experiences. Doug Herrington, CEO of Worldwide Amazon Stores, emphasized the importance of understanding customer needs through innovation, including rapid delivery and a customer-centric approach. His reminder that “a faster promise increases conversion rate” underscores the role of speed and precision in building trust. Across the industry, direct-to-consumer strategies and retail media networks emerged as crucial tools for staying relevant and driving growth.

The Balance of Humanity and Technology

As AI becomes central to retail operations, leaders stressed the importance of blending technology with human connection. Whether using AI to generate insights, assist customers, or empower associates, the consensus was clear: technology should enhance—not replace—the personal touch. Whether it’s AI-assisted customer insights, actual literal robots, or empowering frontline teams with smarter tools, leaders agreed that technology must work in harmony with the human element.
💡 Did you know? Amazon leverages generative AI to enhance at least half of its customer interactions, optimizing processes like fit recommendations and catalog management.

Future-Proofing Through Innovation

Retailers are navigating rapid change by adopting agile strategies, from AI-enabled supply chain optimization to sustainability initiatives. Herrington outlined Amazon’s shift to regional fulfillment networks through its “perfect placement” initiative, doubling same-day delivery capacity while maintaining efficiency. The need to respond swiftly to economic shifts, geopolitical tensions, and consumer demands remains a top priority for retailers looking to thrive in uncertainty.

Community and Connection

Retailers are positioning themselves as community hubs, offering localized experiences that foster deep connections with customers. From reimagined store concepts to engaging physical and digital touchpoints, the goal is clear: resonate with customers on a personal level. Leaders emphasized that fostering this connection not only drives loyalty but also distinguishes brands in an increasingly crowded market.

💡Pro Zip Tip:  Attendees at Booth #5157 get an exclusive look at Zippy, Zipline’s AI companion, which is transforming store operations with real-time, role-specific solutions. Book a meeting today to get your inside look at this cutting-edge retail companion.

🎉 reTAILGATE Party: A Winning Combination

Retail insights and Wild Card football—talk about a dynamic duo! At Booth #4657, we teamed up with RetailNext and Legion to host the ultimate reTAILGATE party. Attendees enjoyed delicious food, refreshing drinks, and thrilling playoff action while swapping ideas about the future of retail. It was the perfect blend of business and fun to cap off an incredible day.

👀 Coming Up Tomorrow

🎤 Catch lightning-fast ZipTalks and hear directly from retail leaders at Booth #5157 about how they’re driving innovation and operational excellence. Today’s lineup includes:

Innovation in Action at Pacsun with Lianne Prestamo
🕛 Monday, Jan. 13 | 12:00 PM – 12:30 PM

Implementation at the Speed of Retail with Five Below, Steve Gerlach
🕑 Monday, Jan. 13 | 2:30 PM – 3:00 PM

🤝 Let’s Meet One-on-One

Want a closer look at how Zipline transforms store operations? Schedule a meeting with us at Booth #5157 for personalized insights and solutions tailored to your business. 👉 Book a Meeting Now

We’re excited to see you today—whether it’s for a ZipTalk, a bagel, or a quick chat at Booth #5157!

👋 Day 1 was just the beginning—see you tomorrow for more excitement at NRF 2025!