RILA Opens 2009 Loss Prevention Conference in Orlando 

The Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA) welcomed attendees to its 2009 Loss Prevention, Auditing & Safety Conference today with an opening keynote address from Marvin Ellison, Executive Vice President, U.S. Stores for The Home Depot, Inc.

Ellison opened the conference with an inspirational presentation on his rise through the retail ranks. Ellison shared with conference-goers his perspective on the key skills and leadership qualities that have enabled him to excel throughout his career and imparted his views on the importance of loss prevention in today’s retail world. 

In addition to Ellison’s address, the day included presentations on threat assessment, self scanning, and a discussion of technology available to combat organized retail crime (ORC). Attendees also learned about a variety of loss prevention strategies from around the world and examined loss prevention challenges that should be considered when expanding into international markets.

“Today’s events kick off what is sure to be a terrific conference with valuable educational sessions for all in attendance,” said Paul Jones, vice president for asset protection for RILA.  

The 2009 RILA Loss Prevention, Auditing and Safety Conference is being held at the Gaylord Palms Convention Center in Orlando, FL and runs through Wednesday, May 6. The event welcomes 700 loss prevention professionals from the retail industry to engage with peers and solution providers to develop strategies to manage risk and drive performance in a volatile economic environment and a rapidly changing world.

“This conference allows retail loss prevention professionals from across the retail spectrum to network and identify effective solutions to the challenges they face,” added Jones.

The Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA) promotes consumer choice and economic freedom through public policy and industry operational excellence. Its members include the largest and most successful retailers, product manufacturers, and service suppliers--which together provide millions of jobs and operate more than 100,000 stores, manufacturing facilities and distribution centers domestically and abroad. 

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