Why I’m looking forward to NRF PROTECT 2026

The role of asset protection continues to evolve as retail risk and loss grow more complex. Risk and loss prevention professionals need a place to collaborate, address today’s challenges and prepare for what’s next. That place is NRF PROTECT. 

Attending PROTECT for decades as both a practitioner and solution provider has always been the highlight of my year. Now, as I help design and deliver the conference, I’m even more excited about what this year’s event will bring. 

An innovative start to the future 

The event begins on June 8 at a leadership brunch with the LP Council. This session, exclusively for attendees at the director level and above, highlights the Council’s core initiatives and explores the future of our profession, with a focus on delivering greater value to the C-suite and leaders across the enterprise. 

That afternoon, Retailer All-Access Pass holders can participate in a free hands-on Design Thinking Workshop led by one of the industry’s most forward-thinking experts. The session introduces practical tools to identify and solve root-cause asset protection challenges — an experience you won’t want to miss. 

The day concludes with our World Cup-themed Opening Party — a true kickoff to the event. 

Inspiring keynotes and breakouts beyond the basics 

From opening to closing, our keynote speakers will inspire, challenge and support your growth as leaders while reinforcing the enterprise value of AP/LP. 

Breakout sessions span topics such as total retail loss, unified commerce data, applied AI, fraud mitigation and global risk management. Designed for all roles and retail segments, each session offers insights you can apply immediately. 

You’ll leave with both strategic perspective and actionable takeaways — because NRF PROTECT is about turning learning into impact. 

The Expo Hall: Innovation at scale 

With more than 200 solution providers, the Expo Hall offers hands-on access to technologies shaping the future of AP/LP and fraud prevention — from advanced analytics and AI-driven video to electronic article surveillance, RFID and digital risk solutions. 

A standout feature is the NRF Fusion Center, where retailers, law enforcement, mall security and Organized Retail Crime Associations collaborate and share intelligence. This unique hub connects insights across theft, fraud and enterprise risk and is a must-see. 

What sets NRF PROTECT apart 

NRF PROTECT offers unmatched value among retail LP/AP events. Here are perspectives from a few LP Council members: 

“I believe one of the greatest values of attending NRF PROTECT is the diversity of perspectives it brings together. Engaging with professionals from different backgrounds, industries and experiences creates an environment that naturally drives development, fresh thinking and new ideas. Those interactions challenge conventional approaches and help elevate how we think about our own strategies.”

— SVP of Asset Protection

“For me, attending the conference is about learning from industry experts, exploring emerging technologies and solutions, strengthening my professional network, and lastly, it’s about investing in my team. For asset protection professionals, committed to staying ahead of the curve, it’s one of the most valuable opportunities of the year.”

— VP of Loss Prevention

“What’s important is the opportunity to connect with industry leaders. The dialogue at PROTECT provides real-time insight into emerging risks, evolving trends and innovative solutions being implemented across the industry. That level of transparency and shared learning is difficult to replicate elsewhere and is incredibly valuable for both individual growth and team development. ”

— SVP of Loss Prevention

Simply put, no other event unifies retail asset protection like NRF PROTECT. Explore the full agenda, registration details and our industry and law enforcement partners. 

I hope to see you June 8 – 10 at the Gaylord Texan in Grapevine, Texas. Register early to save — or bring your team and save even more.