E-commerce is a competitive business, and any edge companies can gain could be the difference between success and failure. The Internet Retailer Conference and Exhibition (IRCE) @ RetailX has been helping businesses gain that edge and grow their profits since 2005. Doug Hope, RetailX Show Director and Senior Vice President, Emerald Expositions, spoke to RewardExpert about this year’s exhibition. “IRCE brings together all facets of e-commerce – including platforms, marketing, social media, SEM, fulfillment and merchandising – to give attendees a 360-degree view of what it takes to win hearts, minds, and dollars online right now,” he said. This year’s event occurs June 25-28, 2019 at McCormick Place South in Chicago.
E-Commerce Takes Off
The conference has taken place in Chicago since 2005. In the beginning, it was a two-day conference, and organizers knew it was a huge hit right from the start. “The inaugural show sold out in eight days and maintained a waiting list of over 180 exhibitors. The show experienced maximum capacity – both exhibitor and attendee-wise, throughout two days,” said Hope. In those days, there were just 48 speakers and 45 exhibitors. Now there are hundreds. “The educational program is second to none with acclaimed keynotes, 200+ expert speakers and an expansive exhibit hall boasting nearly 600 top solution and technology providers,” he said.
The Place To Network
This year, attendees are expected from over 40 countries and from all facets of the e-commerce industry. Everyone from lower level employees to top managers attend, representing companies that range from startups to established global brands. “Whether you’re an exhibitor or attendee, IRCE is the place to network and connect if you’re in the e-commerce industry,” stated Hope.
A Unique Feature
A major highlight this year is the fact that IRCE @ RetailX will combine three industry-leading events under one roof. This includes technology and in-store marketing event, GlobalShop, which focuses on retail design and RFID Journal LIVE! Retail, which is the only RFID (radio frequency identification) event dedicated specifically to retail. RFID can be used by retailers to improve their accuracy when it comes to inventory.
Use Workshops To Grow Business
There will also be workshops and over 130 education sessions discussing the latest strategies to grow an e-commerce business. The workshops are led by industry experts and focus on such topics as combining bricks-and-clicks, finding new revenue streams and growing market share. They include workshops like Amazon and Me and E-Commerce Bootcamp. The agenda is also put together by the editorial experts at Internet Retailer Magazine.
Hear F Top Speakers
There are also some big-name speakers from the e-commerce world, who deliver keynote addresses to conference attendees. This year’s confirmed speakers include Susan Tynan, CEO & Founder of Framebridge, Chip Conley, Strategic Advisor of AirBnb, Dan Alarik, CEO & Founder of Grunt Style, Andy Dunn, Senior Vice President of Walmart and many others.
A Small Investment, A Big Payoff
The cost to attend IRCE @ RetailX ranges from $129 for basic access to the exhibition hall, all the way up to $2,400 for premier access to all the events, workshops and speakers. Discounts are also given to groups and companies. To find out whether the conference can benefit your business, head to https://www.irce.com/ and we’ll see you in Chicago in late June.