The Retail Industry Leaders Association’s (RILA) 2024 Asset Protection Conference delivered a slate of engaging educational sessions and a bustling expo experience on day two of the event yesterday, April 15.
The day started for some at 7:15 a.m. with a Women in Asset Protection Network Breakfast, where Communications Coach and Author Cyndi Maxey shared tips on presenting like a pro. Other attendees enjoyed a networking breakfast at 8 a.m. before RILA President Brian Dodge, ULTA Beauty Director of LP and ORC Rory Stallard, and Dallas County DA John Creuzot officially kicked things off. RILA Senior Executive VP of Retail Operations Lisa LaBruno then took the stage to welcome attendees.
Next, Brian Dodge, Five Below Chief Retail Officer George Hill, and Tractor Supply Executive VP and Chief Stores Officer John Ordus presented on creating compelling customer experiences in challenging times; and Open to All Deputy Director Tshombe Laughman, Burlington Stores Senior VP and Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer Mecca Mitchell, and PetSmart VP of LP and Safety Meredith Plaxco talked about how retailers can foster safe and inclusive stores.
After a brief business break, attendees were then able to choose from an excellent variety of breakout session covering everything from engaging all workforce generations with AP topics to the intersection of law enforcement and retailers in ORC interviews.
The expo experience opened at noon, and all of the vendor booths were bustling with activity until it closed at 3 p.m. Attendees were then invited back into the main ballroom for general sessions about RILA’s Vibrant Communities Initiative (learn more about this in LPM’s upcoming Spring Issue!) and Starbucks’ Outreach Worker Program, which leverages local nonprofits to better support team members navigating the challenges of homelessness, mental health, and substance disorders within their stores and nearby neighborhoods.
The day’s activities concluded with a reception back in the expo experience before attendees branched off for different dinners and events.
Come back to our site tomorrow for coverage of day three of the conference, and follow us on LinkedIn for live updates!