National Retail Federation (NRF)

The National Retail Federation (NRF) is the largest retail trade association in the world. Founded in 1911 and based in Washington, D.C., it represents retailers across segments—department stores, specialty and discount retailers, grocers, restaurants, online sellers, and suppliers—from the United States and more than 45 countries. Known as the “Voice of Retail,” the NRF advocates on policy, provides industry research and education, and organizes major events that connect retailers and partners.

Key takeaways

• Founded in 1911, the NRF is the largest global retail association and a leading advocate for the retail industry.
• The NRF lobbies on issues that affect retail—labor, commerce, healthcare, and workforce development.
• The NRF Foundation provides training, scholarships, and career resources; its RISE Up program has awarded credentials to over 400,000 people.
• Retail is the nation’s largest private-sector employer, with roughly 52 million Americans working in retail.
• Retail’s Big Show is the NRF’s flagship annual conference, drawing tens of thousands of attendees.

What the NRF does

The NRF’s activities span advocacy, education, research, events, and industry services:
* Advocacy and public policy — The NRF lobbies lawmakers and shapes policy on issues affecting retailers and their employees. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic the NRF advocated for widespread mask policies in stores.
* Research and communications — The federation publishes research reports, newsletters, and STORES magazine to inform members and the public about retail trends.
* Industry divisions — NRF maintains specialized groups focused on technology, workforce development, and other retail functions.
* Events and networking — It convenes retailers, vendors, policymakers, and educators through conferences and programs.

NRF Foundation

The NRF Foundation is the NRF’s nonprofit arm focused on workforce development and career pathways in retail. Its offerings include:
* RISE Up training and credential program — An industry-recognized curriculum and exam available through more than 900 high schools, career and technical education centers, and workforce boards. More than 400,000 people have earned RISE Up credentials.
* Scholarships and career resources — The foundation has awarded over half a million dollars in college scholarships and provides job boards, a career center, and programming (in-person and virtual) to introduce newcomers to retail careers.
* Industry partnerships — RISE Up and other programs were developed in collaboration with major retailers, including Walmart, The Home Depot, Macy’s, Nordstrom, and others.

Membership

NRF membership is available to retailers, industry partners, universities, and international retail associations (Federation of International Retail Associations, FIRA). Member benefits typically include:
* Access to research and curated online content
* Networking and event opportunities
* Policy advocacy and representation
* University members receive student-focused content and scholarship access

Membership dues vary by category. Examples cited include approximately $1,000 annually for a university membership and $1,400 for FIRA; dues for retailer and industry partner categories vary.

Retail’s Big Show

Retail’s Big Show is the NRF’s annual conference and expo, one of North America’s longest-running retail events. Highlights:
* Held over multiple days in January at New York City’s Javits Center (pre-pandemic attendance exceeded 40,000).
* Features exhibit booths, educational sessions, keynote speakers, innovation labs, networking events, and a gala.
* The event shifted to a virtual format in 2021 due to COVID-19 and returned to the Javits Center the following year.

Training and certification

The NRF offers a Retail Industry Fundamentals credential through a 10-lesson certification course covering topics such as workplace safety, economic impacts, customer service, and sales basics. These and other credential programs aim to prepare workers and students for retail careers.

Governance

The NRF is governed by a board of directors and an executive committee. Its chairman is Mike George, president and CEO of Qurate Retail, Inc.

Why the NRF matters

Retail is a major employer and a critical part of the economy. The NRF’s combination of advocacy, workforce training, industry research, and large-scale events helps shape retail policy, supports business objectives, and builds the next generation of retail talent.