As the retail industry continues to evolve, understanding the broader economic landscape has never been more important. On this episode of Retail Gets Real, two of NRF’s top economic minds — Chief Economist Jack Kleinhenz and Executive Director of Research Mark Mathews — join the podcast to break down what’s driving the U.S. economy, what to expect for the second half of 2025 and what it all means for retailers and consumers.
(00:00:00) Reflecting on 15 years of economic insight
(00:06:40) Forecasting through uncertainty
(00:08:16) The rise of AI and the future of retail
(00:09:47) The real impact of AI on retail and jobs
(00:12:46) Navigating a globalized retail economy
(00:18:45) Advice for students, book recs and a look back
The National Retail Federation is the world’s largest retail trade association.
Every day, we passionately stand up for the people, policies and ideas that help retail succeed.
Resources:
• Get ready for Retail’s Big Show in NYC
• Become an NRF member and join the world’s largest retail trade association
• Learn about our retail education platform, NRF Foundation, at nrffoundation.org
• Learn about retail advocacy at nrf.com/advocacy
• Find more episodes at retailgetsreal.com
Related:
• Data ‘Remains Strong’ But Public Policy Uncertainties ‘Blur the Economic Outlook’ for 2025
• NRF Chief Economist Says 2024 ‘Ended on a High Note’
• Economy Still Growing Despite Tariffs But ‘A Lot of People Have Recession on Their Minds’
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