Thanks to the likes of Marshall Field’s, the Palmer House Hotel, the Merchandise Mart, elevated trains and streetcars, and Frank Sinatra penning a song called “The Toddlin’ Town” about State Street, that Great Street, for well over 100 years, Chicago has long been at the epicenter of retail. Fast-forward to today, and we are courting the likes of Amazon and continue to create some of the most well-known brands and innovative products on the market. But what does that have to do with you?
 
Whether you are in the retail industry or simply a consumer, retail is a part of us all. We are all users of tech. We are all advocates of diversity. Imagine the possibilities when we bring all three together! 

As retail and tech continue to converge, Chicago is at the center of nothing but opportunity. Join ARA, host and sponsor Brookfield Properties, and strategic partner and sponsor, Monster for an inspiring evening of Retail, Tech & YOU, where we’ll kick-off by reviewing results from the most recent Harvey Nash and ARA Women in Tech Survey and host a series of fireside conversations with leading industry experts covering why Chicago is the best place to be for retail, why diversity and having the right talent is critical to any industry’s success, the truth behind retail stores and e-commerce, and a few other surprises (think food and music)!

But wait, there’s more!
 
Speaking of retail, with the holidays fast approaching, we couldn’t think of a better time to take over Brookfield Properties' HQ and beautiful downtown space with a few of our favorite shops. A Holiday Pop-up not to be missed. You’ll walk away both inspired by the content and relieved to check-off some of your shopping needs (and maybe get something special for yourself along the way).