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About Us

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empowering retailers through AI innovation

About the 
Retail AI Council

leading retail aI innovation and collaboration

Who We Are

We are a dynamic community of retailers, AI experts, and innovators, from startups to global brands, committed to shaping the future of AI in retail. With 45,000+ industry connections and a leadership team of top retail executives, we provide unparalleled access to AI knowledge and opportunities.

The Retail AI Council is the premier hub for AI knowledge in retail, uniting industry leaders, innovators, and decision-makers to drive AI adoption. Our mission is to cut through the hype, provide actionable insights, and foster real connections that empower retailers to navigate AI’s disruptive forces with confidence.

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What We Do

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Curated AI Education – We simplify AI for retail professionals with expert-led discussions, reports, and structured learning resources.

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Retailer-Vendor Collaboration – We connect vetted AI vendors with engaged retailers, ensuring strategic adoption and measurable ROI.

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Promotion & Visibility – We amplify the voice of AI leaders by featuring members in reports, webinars, newsletters, and events, ensuring their expertise reaches a highly engaged retail audience.

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Join the AI Revolution

Be part of a movement that’s redefining retail. Whether you’re an industry veteran or just starting your AI journey, the Retail AI Council is your go-to resource for education, collaboration, and transformation.

🔸 Membership is free 
🔸 Access cutting-edge AI strategies 
🔸 Connect with decision-makers shaping the future of retail

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Meet our Council Leadership

The Retail AI Council is led by a distinguished group of retail industry veterans. Our leadership team includes:

Andrew Laudato
Andrew Laudato
Co-Founder & Chair
Vitamin Shoppe, Chief Operating Officer
Jenna Posner
Jenna Posner
Co-Founder & Vice Chair
Solo Brands, Chief Digital Officer

Executive Leadership Committee – Retailer Members

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  • Co-Founder & Chair: Andrew Laudato, Vitamin Shoppe, Chief Operating Officer

  • Co-Founder & Vice Chair: Jenna Posner, Solo Brands, Chief Digital Officer

  • Prama Bhatt, JD Sports Group, Board of Directors, and Ulta Beauty, former Chief Digital Officer

  • Shirley Gao, PACSUN, Chief Digital and Information Officer

  • Jeff Goethals, Centric Brands, Chief Information Officer

  • David Kastin, Bed Bath & Beyond, Chief Legal Officer

  • Beth McCormick, CAVA, Chief Information Officer

  • Steve Williams, Buff City Soap, Chief Technology Officer

Executive Leadership Committee – Industry Partner Members

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  • Vicki Cantrell, Vendors in Partnership, Chief Executive Officer

  • Dave Finnegan, Reach Partners, Head of the Customer Experience Practice

  • Rob Garf, Salesforce, VP and GM, Retail

  • Cathy Hotka, Cathy Hotka & Associates, Principal

Join The Retail AI Council

As a member, you’ll harness the collective expertise, resources, and opportunities within our community to fast-track your AI journey, fuel your business growth, and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of AI in the retail industry.  

Membership is free

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