Supply Chain
- Home
- Focus Areas
- Supply Chain
Overview
This year marks an exciting time for the Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA) and the entire retail ecosystem. The global supply chain is evolving and so are America’s retailers. As consumer demands shift, the desire to purchase goods and services anytime, anywhere is driving today’s dynamic retail environment. RILA is committed to helping our supply chain community meet consumer needs with knowledge and innovative solutions.
RILA recognizes that a focus on ubiquitous internet access, changing consumer values, preferences, and lifestyles, coupled with the desire for increased on-demand shopping, have led to unprecedented disruption in virtually every industry. Retail perhaps more than any other. As we look ahead to what’s on the horizon, RILA will continue to promote innovation, education and communication throughout the supply chain to accelerate what’s possible.
Why Supply Chain Matters to Retail
Supply chains are what link shoppers with the experiences and products they desire. In today’s retail world, customer expectations demand supply chains that are faster, more flexible, and more seamless than ever. Global trade rules and efficient supply chains are essential to retail operations. The vast retail supply chain supports millions of American jobs and provides consumers with the products they want on-demand and at the best possible prices. To help retailers move products from shore to shelf, global supply chains rely on open markets for goods and services, updated infrastructure, and efficient operations.
Our Priorities
As the largest U.S. importers, leading retailers are actively engaged with Congress and the Administration to highlight the negative impact tariffs and a trade war will have on retail operations and our customers. The tidal wave of tariffs on washing machines, steel and aluminum, and goods coming from China have created uncertainty for trade flows and the growth of the overall U.S. economy. RILA advocates a bold trade agenda that creates new opportunities for open markets while facilitating the efficient movement of goods across our borders and through American ports.
State of Retail Supply Chain Report

For a free copy of "2018 State of Retail Supply Chain", please complete the form below.
A Deeper Look into Supply Chain

Securing and Growing the Retail Supply Chain
RILA is engaged with Congress and Administration in voicing retailers’ concerns over negative impact tariffs have on the industry and consumer.
Learn More
Startup Innovation Awards for Supply Chain
RILA's Innovation Awards for Supply Chain recognizes retailers who find new solutions dedicated to helping innovate the retail supply chain.
Learn More
Retail Resources for Coronavirus
Leading Retailers are preparing their employees and customers for any potential impacts related to the coronavirus.
Learn MoreSupply Chain Committees
Ubiquitous internet access and evolving consumer preferences have led to unprecedented disruption in retail. RILA is committed to helping the retail supply chain community adapt with knowledge and innovative solutions.
View All CommitteesInsights On-Demand Highlights

Cahoot Digital Pitch
Cahoot is an eCommerce order fulfillment network that helps merchants offer nationwide fast shipping at ground rates or less.
View Insights
Tech Helps Keep Retail Distribution Moving
Jess Dankert looks at how retailers’ distribution & e-commerce fulfillment operations have adopted to COVID.
View Insights
How Startups Can Deliver for Retail Supply Chains
Schematic Ventures is a member of RILA’s Innovation Network, which brings retailers together with venture capitalists, incubators, and accelerators.
View InsightsLINK2021: The Retail Supply Chain Conference
- Aug 17 - Aug 20, 2021
- Orlando, FL
RILA's Retail Supply Chain Conference is the only event of its kind - gathering top executives from leading retailers to network and learn.
Go to EventStrategic Initiatives that support performance, compliance and transform the industry
Latest Supply Chain Insights

Response to Ban on All Cotton Imports From XUAR
- By [Blake Harden]
- 01/13/2021
Over 200 Leaders Urge Against Vietnam Tariffs
- By [Blake Harden]
- 01/08/2021

RILA to USTR: Failed Tariff Strategy Shouldn't Be Duplicated
- By [Blake Harden]
- 12/28/2020
Letter to USTR on Vietnam Currency
- By [Blake Harden]
- 12/18/2020

Treasury Labels Vietnam a Currency Manipulator
- By [Blake Harden]
- 12/16/2020
Response to Enforcement Actions to Prohibit XPCC Cotton
- By [Blake Harden]
- 12/02/2020