NEW YORK— The National Retail Federation’s 2025 Big Show kicked off this weekend at the Jacob Javits Center, drawing thousands of retail leaders and innovators eager to explore the future of the industry. Running from January 12-14, this year’s event boasts a record number of exhibitors, groundbreaking technologies, and sessions aimed at tackling the challenges and opportunities of retail in a rapidly evolving landscape.
Major announcements at the show include advancements in AI-powered frontline communication, in-store advertising platforms, and cloud-based inventory management solutions. These technologies reflect a strong focus on automation, real-time insights, and streamlined operations to meet consumer demands while improving business outcomes.
Motorola Solutions to Acquire Theatro
Booth #706 (Motorola Solutions) & Booth #807 (Theatro)
One of the biggest stories from NRF 2025 comes from Motorola Solutions, which announced its agreement to acquire Theatro Labs, Inc., a Richardson, Texas-based company specializing in AI-powered voice communication software for frontline workers. Theatro’s wearable devices enable real-time collaboration, inventory checks, and safety alerts through voice commands, empowering retail employees to work more efficiently and securely.
Theatro’s software also integrates with video security systems, allowing for proactive detection of theft or safety threats, while providing discreet alerts for employees facing unsafe situations.
“Theatro is designed to prioritize both safety and operational efficiency, which are essential for all frontline workers,” said Mahesh Saptharishi, Chief Technology Officer at Motorola Solutions.
Motorola expects the acquisition to close in the first half of 2025 and plans to integrate Theatro’s tools with its existing portfolio of technologies, including body cameras and fixed video systems. The move expands Motorola’s reach into retail and other industries such as hospitality, healthcare, and manufacturing.
Creative Realities Unveils AdLogic CPM+
Booth #411
Creative Realities introduced its new AdLogic CPM+™ platform, designed to simplify in-store retail media networks and help advertisers optimize campaigns with precision. The platform integrates inventory management, dynamic targeting, and real-time analytics into a single solution.
AdLogic CPM+ enables retailers to manage ad campaigns seamlessly, whether through private marketplaces or programmatic advertising. The solution reduces dependency on third-party systems, cutting operational costs and eliminating unnecessary intermediary fees.
“Retail Media Networks are reshaping the advertising landscape, and AdLogic CPM+ represents a major leap forward,” said Rick Mills, CEO of Creative Realities. “We’re equipping publishers and advertisers with the tools they need to deliver targeted, high-performing campaigns at significantly reduced costs.”
The platform integrates with Creative Realities’ existing systems, including ReflectView™ and AdLogic™ ad-serving tools, offering retailers greater control over their in-store media networks. With real-time reporting and advanced campaign management features, AdLogic CPM+ is set to redefine how retailers leverage in-store advertising.
Logile Launches Cloud-Based Scale Management Solution
Booth #5921 & Foodservice Innovation Zone Booth #223
Logile, a leader in AI-powered retail solutions, unveiled its Scale Management Solution, a cloud-based platform designed to address key challenges in fresh inventory management for food retailers. This innovation streamlines scale operations by enabling updates to over 1,800 items per scale in minutes, ensuring pricing accuracy, nutritional labeling compliance, and centralized oversight across multiple locations.
Already piloted at Vallarta Supermarkets, the solution is now being rolled out chain-wide, with additional deployments planned for 2025. The platform integrates seamlessly with Logile’s Fresh Inventory Management suite, providing tools for recipe management, production planning, and guided instructions for store teams.
“Our Scale Management Solution is a game-changer,” said Purna Mishra, CEO of Logile. “It simplifies scale operations, provides real-time updates, and ensures compliance while empowering retailers to focus on their customers.”
Retailers attending NRF 2025 can experience the solution firsthand and learn how it is redefining operational efficiency in the food industry.
The Future of Retail
The innovations showcased at NRF 2025 highlight a transformative moment for the retail industry. Companies like Motorola Solutions, Creative Realities, and Logile are setting the stage for a more agile and connected future, where retailers can leverage cutting-edge technologies to meet consumer expectations and streamline operations.
For more information, visit the exhibitors at their booths or explore the event online at the NRF Big Show 2025 website.