LINK Connect FAQ

Retailer & CPG FAQ

Everything You Need to Know About LINK Connect

Below you'll find answers to questions about the LINK Connect: 1:1 Hosted Meetings program. Whether you're looking for details on how to get started, program benefits, or specific guidelines, this page is your go-to resource for understanding how our program can enhance your retail operations.

If I bring a team, do they all have to participate in the LINK Connect Program?

No. They either participate via the paid registration or the LINK Connect Program.

What is the travel rebate for the hosted meetings participation? When & How do I receive that?

Up to $1,500. Received upon completion of up to 8 meetings and meeting survey after the event.

What if I cannot make all of my meetings?

If you pick up your badge onsite or otherwise attend the Event but do not complete your scheduled Hosted Meetings: (a) we will not be responsible for any costs associated with your travel or hotel and you will not receive any reimbursement, (b) your credit card will be charged for your Event ticket per the authorization you agree to below, and (c) you may be rejected from the LINK Connect program in future years. Notwithstanding the foregoing, we reserve the right at our sole discretion to prorate your ticket fee and/or your travel/hotel reimbursement calculated based on the total LINK Connect meetings for which you were scheduled and that you completed.

How many people need to be registered from a company to have a meeting room?

12. These meeting rooms are on a first come first serve basis. Email registration@rila.org to inquire.

Can I hold my LINK Connect meetings in my company’s meeting room?

No. All LINK Connect - 1:1 Hosted Meetings must take place in the designated LINK Connect meetings area on the Exhibit hall floor during the Expo Hours.

If I’ve paid for registration, can I receive a refund if I want to move into the LINK Connect Program?

Yes. Before January 8th when all retailers are confirmed for the LINK Connect program. You will need to re-register as a LINK Connect meetings registrant.

How many time slots will I need to hold on my calendar for LINK Connect Meetings?

2027 RILA LINK Hosted Meetings Schedule All times are Eastern Time. Each meeting is 15 minutes, followed by a 3 minute transition.

Meeting — 15 minutes Transition — 3 minutes

Monday, February 22, 2027 Session 1 1:00 PM–2:27 PM ET • 5 meeting slots

	Meeting 115 minutes	1:00–1:15 PM
	Transition (3 min)	1:15–1:18 PM
	Meeting 215 minutes	1:18–1:33 PM
	Transition (3 min)	1:33–1:36 PM
	Meeting 315 minutes	1:36–1:51 PM
	Transition (3 min)	1:51–1:54 PM
	Meeting 415 minutes	1:54–2:09 PM
	Transition (3 min)	2:09–2:12 PM
	Meeting 515 minutes	2:12–2:27 PM

Monday, February 22, 2027 Session 2 4:00 PM–5:27 PM ET • 5 meeting slots

	Meeting 115 minutes	4:00–4:15 PM
	Transition (3 min)	4:15–4:18 PM
	Meeting 215 minutes	4:18–4:33 PM
	Transition (3 min)	4:33–4:36 PM
	Meeting 315 minutes	4:36–4:51 PM
	Transition (3 min)	4:51–4:54 PM
	Meeting 415 minutes	4:54–5:09 PM
	Transition (3 min)	5:09–5:12 PM
	Meeting 515 minutes	5:12–5:27 PM

Tuesday, February 23, 2027 Session 1 1:45 PM–3:30 PM ET • 6 meeting slots

	Meeting 115 minutes	1:45–2:00 PM
	Transition (3 min)	2:00–2:03 PM
	Meeting 215 minutes	2:03–2:18 PM
	Transition (3 min)	2:18–2:21 PM
	Meeting 315 minutes	2:21–2:36 PM
	Transition (3 min)	2:36–2:39 PM
	Meeting 415 minutes	2:39–2:54 PM
	Transition (3 min)	2:54–2:57 PM
	Meeting 515 minutes	2:57–3:12 PM
	Transition (3 min)	3:12–3:15 PM
	Meeting 615 minutes	3:15–3:30 PM

When are the meeting times for LINK Connect meetings?

You can find all the meeting times in the Terms and Conditions here. There will be no content sessions at the same time as LINK Connect meetings, so you won’t miss any content. All meetings will take place in a dedicated meetings area in the exhibit hall.