Meadowlands Exposition Center · Jul 15, 2026
HomeEducation Program 2026

Education Program

NSA TradeShow 2026 · Meadowlands Exposition Center, Secaucus NJ

08:00 AM

Exhibitor Move-In

Marquee, Terrace & Boulevard Ballrooms
08:00 AM05:00 PM

Exhibitor setup and move-in period. All exhibitor representatives with valid credentials may access the show floor during this time to build out their booths.

Registration Open

Registration Lobby
08:00 AM06:00 PMSponsored by National Cooperative Bank

Registration open 8:00 am – 6:00 pm.

09:00 AM

Breakfast Roundtable Discussions

Grand 121-122
09:00 AM10:30 AM

Pre-registration required, open to retailers and Retailers. Join us for moderated table discussions on a variety of topics impacting the grocery industry. Attendees will choose from: Artificial Intelligence in Retail, Shrink & Loss Prevention, Customer Loyalty Programs, and more.

10:00 AM

Technology Innovation Forum

Grand 123-124
10:00 AM12:00 PM

"How Smart Strategy and Tactical Precision Can Beat Size and Scale" — This 2-hour forum features innovative speakers leading the way for tech disruptions in the retail industry. As big retailers invest in AI and automation, independents must leverage technology smartly to compete.

11:00 AM

Opening Keynote Session

Meadowlands Arena – Main Stage
11:00 AM12:30 PM

Kick off NSA TradeShow 2026 with an inspiring keynote address exploring the state of independent retail, the challenges ahead, and the extraordinary opportunities for those who embrace change. All attendees welcome.

12:30 PM

Networking Luncheon

Grand Ballroom Foyer
12:30 PM02:00 PMSponsored by National Cooperative Bank

Connect with fellow attendees over a sponsored lunch. Networking tables organized by store type to facilitate targeted peer conversations.

02:00 PM

Omnichannel Strategy Workshop

Grand 125
02:00 PM03:30 PM

Practical strategies for independent grocers to compete in an omnichannel world — from digital circulars and loyalty apps to curbside pickup and last-mile delivery partnerships.

Fresh Foods Innovation Showcase

Terrace Ballroom A
02:00 PM03:30 PM

Explore the latest trends in fresh department performance — from produce presentation and meat case optimization to prepared foods programs that drive basket size and foot traffic.

03:30 PM

People Development: Building Tomorrow's Leaders

Grand 127
03:30 PM05:00 PM

Talent acquisition, onboarding excellence, and leadership pipeline development for independent retailers. Learn how to attract, develop, and retain top talent in a competitive labor market.

05:00 PM

Welcome Reception & Exhibit Hall Preview

Exhibit Hall – Main Floor
05:00 PM07:00 PMSponsored by Keurig Dr Pepper

Kick off the show with cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, and a first look at the exhibit floor. Open to all registered attendees.