The Power of Retail: Retail CEOs Gather in DC

The event was an opportunity for industry leaders to discuss critical issues that could reshape the operating environment in retail.

By [ Brian Dodge ] |


RILA President Brian Dodge
Last week over 30 of retail’s top executives gathered in Washington, DC for RILA’s first ever Retail CEO Policy Summit. The event was an opportunity for industry leaders to discuss critical issues that could reshape the operating environment in retail. In addition to connecting with peers, attendees met with key members of the Biden administration and members of Congress who are directly engaged in determining the outcome of the issues that matter most to the retail industry.

Beyond robust and informative discussion, the event was a welcome opportunity to re-connect in person and share insights and stories of the past year. Laughter, handshakes, high-fives and hugs were a reminder of the personal connections that make our industry and this peer group so special.

Explore highlights of the 2021 Retail CEO Policy Summit Below.
 
TIAA Immediate Past President & CEO Roger Ferguson shared insights on the environmental, social and governance (ESG) imperative facing retail today.

Ulta Beauty CEO & RILA Board Chairperson Mary Dillon

Accenture’s Group Chief Executive – Technology & Chief Technology Officer Paul Daugherty presented on the key technology trends that will shape business and technology over the next few years and outlined actions retail leaders must take to be masters of change.



Reception and dinner with guests

RILA’s public affairs, operations, and legal teams briefed CEOs on the critical issues that could reshape the operating environment for retailers, including corporate tax rates, infrastructure investment, trade, and competition (organized retail crime, swipe fees and anti-trust reforms).

U.S. Senator John Hickenlooper (D-CO) shared insights from Capitol Hill on some of the key issues facing retailers and workers, including updates on the developing infrastructure package.

Cedric Richmond, Senior Advisor to the President and Director of the White House Office of Public Engagement discussed the Biden Administration's top legislative priorities and timelines, and their outlook for the rest of 2021 and beyond.

U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-SC) offered his unique insights into areas of workforce development, diversity, criminal justice and tax reform.

Dr. Lael Brainard of the Federal Reserve Board of Governors discussed the state of the economic recovery in the U.S.

Bryan Ware, Chief Executive Officer & Founder of Next5, shared the latest on ransomware attacks in the U.S., and the geo-political, supply chain, and cybersecurity risks business leaders must anticipate in today’s world.
Learn more about the 2021 Retail CEO Policy Summit here.
 
Tags
  • Public Policy
  • Public Policy
  • Retail Insights
  • Retail
  • Retail Impact
  • Retails Impact
  • Executive Leadership