These are exciting times in the world of retail.

2018 started with Amazon acquiring Ring, Nordstrom acquiring BevyUp and MessageYes, Alibaba investing in Rent the Runway, and Boxed rejecting Kroger’s acquisition offer. As we welcome spring, retailers are coming out of their budgeting season to finalize strategies and execution plans to hit their targets for the fiscal year.

Whether you are figuring out how to best defend against or attack Amazon, implement a new personalization platform, or dramatically redesign your physical retail experience, collaboration with partners – investors, startups, community members – is key to your success. Hear from those who have built and leveraged their partnerships about the lessons learned and the impact on their bottom line.

We invite you to join us for an evening of lively conversation, stories, and practical advice on how to create and nurture partnerships that last.

About Our Panelists:

Prakash Muppirala, President and CTO of Restoration Hardware, has over 14 years of experience as a leader and innovator in eCommerce and retail for Restoration Hardware, Staples, and eBay.

Matt Nichols, Partner at Commerce Ventures, is the former CEO of GemVara, an eCommerce platform for jewelry customization at scale which was acquired by Richline of Berkshire Hathaway.

Liz Powers, Founder of ArtLifting, created a platform for artists living with homelessness and disabilities, and has built partnerships for artwork distribution with retailers West Elm, Starbucks, and FedEx.

About Our Moderator:

Andy Freedman, Managing Partner of Merkatus Partners, has led partnership building throughout eCommerce and retail at Dunkin’ Brands, General Mills, Riskified, LevelUp, and Visa.

Schedule:

6:00 – 6:30: Networking

6:30 – 7:15: Panel Discussion: Retailer/Investor/Startup Relationships – How Retailers and Partners Can Collaborate Successfully

7:15 – 8:30: Cocktails and Conversations

8:30: Doors Closed