Event CoverageEssential Guide to Shoptalk Spring 2026: Retail in the Age of AI—Balancing Automation and Human-Centric Experiences Sophie Anne Luo, Analyst Sector Lead: John Mercer, Head of Global Research and Managing Director of Data-Driven Research March 6, 2026 Reasons to ReadUncover key insights and must-attend sessions at Shoptalk Spring 2026, focused on how AI is transforming retail, as well as the role of emotion, experience and human connection as counterbalances to automation. Read this report to discover answers to these and other questions: What are the main themes and sessions at Shoptalk Spring 2026? How is artificial intelligence scaling across the retail value chain and impacting operations? How are marketing, media, and social commerce evolving in an AI-driven retail environment? What strategies can retailers use to build emotional connections and loyalty in a tech-driven world? What emerging technologies and innovations are shaping the future of retail, and which sessions highlight them? Other relevant research: Catch up on insights from previous Shoptalk events and look out for our daily coverage of Shoptalk Spring 2026 here. Please Login to read the full report. Not a member? To access this content for free, register for a free account. This document was generated for Other research you may be interested in: Earnings Insights 1Q25, Week 5: BJ’s Wholesale Club and Home Depot Report Sales Growth; Target Reports Sales Decline—InfographicThe New Coresight 100: Setting the Direction for Global Retail in 2026US Store Openings and Closures Midyear 2025 Review and Outlook: Where Does Retail Real Estate Stand in a Year of Disruption?US Back to School 2026, Part 1: Early Shopping, Inflation Worries and Strategic Choices Shape BTS 2026