Agenda

Retail’s future is being shaped by the convergence of profit, sustainability and circularity. In this forward-looking session, leaders driving change will share practical strategies that balance business growth with environmental responsibility. From scalable reuse models and waste-reducing technologies to circular supply chains and data-driven decision-making, discover how companies are turning visionary goals into real-world, revenue-generating outcomes. Walk away with actionable insights that prove a more sustainable future isn’t just possible — it’s profitable.

Reverse logistics is not just about managing returns – it’s a strategic lever for cost savings, efficiency, and customer satisfaction. This session dives into how retailers and manufacturers are reimagining reverse logistics with smarter processes, advanced technologies, and data-driven insights. From automated returns handling and centralized processing hubs to AI-powered routing and resale-ready refurbishments, learn how leading companies are transforming a cost center into a competitive advantage. Discover practical innovations that reduce friction, recover value, and streamline operations across the reverse supply chain.

Steve Preston, President and CEO, Goodwill Industries International shares how resale, donation, and recycling can unlock new value in reverse logistics. With retailers facing mounting challenges from returns, waste, and sustainability—pressures only increasing under Extended Producer Responsibility and global markets—Preston highlights practical strategies to recover value, reduce waste, and deliver better outcomes for both businesses and communities.  Walk away with how innovators like Goodwill can be key partners in building more efficient, responsible systems leveraging data, automation and strategic partnerships.  

Returns don’t have to be a pain point — they can be a powerful opportunity to build trust and deepen customer loyalty. In this session, hear how innovative retailers are transforming the returns experience into a seamless, customer-centric touchpoint that keeps shoppers coming back. From flexible policies and frictionless digital tools to proactive communication and personalized service, discover strategies that turn post-purchase challenges into brand-building moments. Learn how a well-designed returns journey can drive repeat business, boost satisfaction and create long-term customer advocates.

Retail returns and takeback programs aren't just a customer service issue – they’re a significant financial challenge. In this session, hear directly from a Chief Financial Officer as they share how returns and takeback programs impact the bottom line, shape inventory strategy, and influence company forecasting. Gain insight into how CFOs evaluate return policies, the hidden costs behind reverse logistics, and the metrics that matter most in driving profitable decisions. This candid discussion will equip retail leaders with a financial lens on one of the industry's most persistent challenges.

In this session, leading venture capitalists and investors share how next-generation innovations will reshape returns and reverse logistics in 2026. The discussion will spotlight how emerging technologies are transforming reverse logistics from a costly necessity into a strategic advantage. From AI and RFID to predictive analytics, automation, and resale, these tools are unlocking new ways to reduce return volume, cut costs, and streamline operations. The panel will also explore where investment dollars are flowing today—and which innovations are positioned to drive tomorrow’s transformation across retail and supply chains. Attendees will gain insight into the trends, technologies, and strategies poised to turn returns into a source of value, efficiency, and customer loyalty in the years ahead.