Style Arcade hit the ground in NYC to attend the RE:PLAN USA conference hosted by PI Apparel and spend time connecting with some of the brightest minds in retail planning.
The team learned how planning leaders are navigating constant change while building teams that can adapt and move quickly. The strongest brands aren't just responding to an ever-evolving retail landscape, they're creating cultures built on curiosity and continuous learning.
Style Arcade also hosted a dinner at Ai Fiori with attendees including planning and operations leaders from brands across the US, spanning luxury, contemporary, and specialty retail from Arc'teryx, Honeylove, Faherty Brand, Happy Socks and MuskOx.
What everyone was talking about during RE:PLAN:
AI will change planning, but it won't replace planners
While AI can help process information faster and surface insights at scale, planning remains deeply human. Understanding consumer behavior, identifying emerging trends, and making judgment calls about what's next still require experience, intuition, and context. Blending all that human knowledge with the right tools to support decision-making is crucial.
Most planning teams are still in very early stages of their AI journey. They are looking for technology that helps them process information faster and make better decisions, while recognizing that planning still requires human judgment, intuition, and context.
The best planning teams win through collaboration
Another theme that resonated was the importance of cross-functional alignment. In a number of sessions, leaders talked about the need for clear ownership and shared accountability across planning, merch, finance, sourcing, and leadership teams.
It's about making sure everyone is working from the same playbook, aligned on common goals, and empowered to make decisions and communicate changes quickly.
Brands are refocusing on physical retail and brand experience
Several discussions highlighted how Gen Z and Gen Alpha shoppers are seeking more in-person experiences. As a result, brands are investing in stores and experiential retail as a way to strengthen customer connection and reinforce brand identity.
Speed and adaptability remain top priorities
Whether discussing tariffs, supply chain disruption, or trend cycles, the common theme was the need to react faster. The brands navigating change most effectively are building cultures of agility and collaboration.
The openness from some of the best in the business around their successes and challenges made for a really insightful couple of days.
With thanks to Ai Fiori for the perfect way to unwind, and to the attendees for sharing their perspectives.
