Virginia Retail Matters

The retail landscape is changing. Discover what's happening, why it matters, and what successful businesses are doing about it.

10:30AM - 11:30M: Registration/Headshots/Networking

11:30AM - 1:00PM: Lunch/Presentation

1:00PM - 2:00PM: Fireside Chats 

• Gen Z Unfiltered: What the Next Generation Really Wants from Local Retail

• AI, Retail, and What's Coming to Hampton Roads

The retail landscape is changing faster than ever. Consumer spending habits are shifting, technology continues to reshape operations and small businesses are navigating everything from workforce challenges to economic uncertainty. Virginia Retail Matters brings together the research, insights, and conversations retailers need to stay ahead of. 

Be among the first to explore the latest findings from our exclusive Virginia retail study and gain practical takeaways on the trends influencing consumer behavior, business growth, Main Street revitalization, artificial intelligence, local sourcing, workforce development, and more. 

About

Join us for a luncheon and presentation of an exclusive research study on Virginia's retail landscape, commissioned by Retail Alliance and conducted in partnership with Main Street America.

This year's research explores some of the most important issues facing retailers and small businesses today, including:

• The changing consumer economy and what it means for your customers

• Emerging AI tools and how businesses are putting them to work

• Workforce trends, including the evolving expectations of Gen Z

• The growth of local sourcing and "Made Local" retail

• The impact of tariffs, supply chain pressures, and economic uncertainty

• The future of Main Street retail in Virginia

• Consumer trends that will shape the remainder of 2026 and beyond

More importantly, the report moves beyond simply identifying trends and focuses on what they mean for your business, your employees, your customers, and your community.

Following the presentation, attendees will hear from industry experts and thought leaders during fireside chats exploring the role of AI in retail and what the next generation of consumers expects from local businesses.

Whether you're a retailer, entrepeneur, community leader, economic developer, financial institution, commercial real estate professional, or simply invested in the future of Virginia's economy, Virginia Retail Matters will provide valuable insights, practical strategies, and meaningful connections to help you prepare for what's next.