Speaking Engagements
ICBA 2026: Currents of Opportunity
The Hidden Advantage: The Social & Emotional Playbook for Modern Retail
Since 1927, the Independent College Bookstore Association (ICBA) has supported the independent operation of college stores. ICBA programs and services are designed to help stores remain independent and be financially and operationally successful.
This year marks the 100th annual ICBA conference. Join Kevin Kelley (Wednesday, February 4 at 1:20PM) as he shares his proven playbook for winning on meaning rather than margins, and on convening rather commoditizing. Attendees will learn how to design sensory-rich, emotionally engaging, community-building retail experiences that elevate relevance, loyalty, and long-term value.
Learn more and join here!
Past Speaking Engagements
ICSC Las Vegas
Where Art and Science Connect to Create Meaningful Experiences
Join Kevin Kelley on Monday, May 19 at 1:00PM for his talk on "Where Art and Science Connect to Create Meaningful Experiences". Alongside fellow experts Bryan Chandler of The Shopping Center Group and Gregg Katz of Esri, they will engage in robust conversation about why physical place matters in retail and how data is complementing its creation.
ICSC Las Vegas gathers industry experts who drive innovation and evolution in commercial real estate.
Learn more and register here!
NRF 2026: Retail's Big Show
Revitalizing Customer Experience with Community-Centric Strategies
Retail success stories are written by companies that are simultaneously crushing it in the now and primed for what's next. NRF 2026 calls it The Next Now.
Join Kevin Kelley and Shannon DeVito, senior director of book strategy and customer experience with Barnes & Noble, for a fireside chat exploring the impact of retail on community and creating store environments that tap into discover, delight, escape, and social bliss.
Learn more and join us here!
SIMA Super Summit
The New Retail Playbook: How to Win When the Rules Have Changed
The SIMA Super Summit is a dynamic gathering of surf industry leaders and innovators across business, culture and sport. In a time of disruption, digital acceleration, and shifting global landscapes, this summit is designed to spark collaboration, elevate sustainability and drive forward-thinking strategies for long-term growth.
Join Kevin Kelley for his keynote speech on unveiling the new playbook for retailers: one built on human connection, cultural meaning, and social experiences that no screen can replace.
Learn more and join here!