About 1,500 new indie bookstores have opened over the past five years, more than 400 in 2025 alone. In a recent ABA survey, 73% of its members said their sales increased in 2025. Independent bookstores are 'resilient and a great example of the innovation, flexibility, and passion that is evident in many small businesses,' said Allison Hill, CEO of the American Booksellers Association.
The shelves were lined with different products than what you'll now find at your local market, and $10 worth of groceries had a very different look - and bulk - to it. Beyond changes in products and costs, the feel of the store also wouldn't have been the same. Not, at least, until one Florida grocery store completely redefined the shopping experience with a simple addition that made everything a whole lot more pleasant: air conditioning.
The NGA Show's move to the MGM Grand wasn't just a change of scenery: it set the tone for what independent grocers are all about right now: evolution without losing identity. The venue delivered the space and vibe that matched the moment, with modern conference facilities that made navigating 350+ exhibitors feel less like a marathon and more like an exploration.
By utilising Brave Bison's data tools and direct relationship networks, we recruited influencers with the perfect profile to reach our intended audience and worked with them throughout the entire creative process, directing and producing video content featuring them within the pop up environments. We then shot a series of 22 videos raising awareness of and showcasing the immersive, artistic and technology-driven nature of the SK-II Wonderland activation.
In 2026, retailers are facing a major upheaval not only in how customers buy but also in who is actually doing the choosing. With the rise of AI agents, and social platforms continuing to blur the line between shopping and entertainment, capturing the customer's attention and proving that you are a trustworthy place to shop is going to become critical to continued success in retail. The common thread is trust.
At FIELD LAB, photographers can actually touch, test, and trust the gear before making decisions, addressing the need for proper testing of cameras with accessories.
"By bringing together our home furnishing expertise, products, and services with Best Buy's leadership in appliances and technology, we're creating a one-stop destination where customers can design their dream kitchen, storage solutions, or laundry space with ease."
We look forward to welcoming T Market to our already dynamic lineup and immersive experiences," Jennifer Kearney said, highlighting the distinctive retail concept and fresh experiences T Market will bring.
