WHAT:  National experts from some of the country’s largest retail brands are gathering in Kansas City for KC SmartPort’s “KC Delivers” forum to discuss how electronic commerce is changing their business strategies and operations. National e-commerce sales were more than $232 billion in 2013 and are expected to reach $370 billion by 2017. 

“E-commerce sales are exploding, with more than half of U.S. customers now buying directly from brands online,” says Chris Gutierrez, president, KC SmartPort.  “Our national panel of experts will share how the industry is adapting to this trend.”

Panelists will discuss current e-commerce strategies, how the retail store experience is adapting, changing labor force requirements and ideal locations for e-commerce fulfillment facilities.  

WHO:  Event speakers include:

·         Alison Jarlett, managing director of international sales, United Postal Service 

·         John Matta, vice president of logistics, Foot Locker

·         Jerry McDonald, senior vice president of retail, OHL

·         David Repp, vice president of North American distribution, American Eagle

·         David Stein, chief operating officer, Title Boxing

WHEN:  Wednesday, April 16, 2014, 7:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.  Attendees can click here to register.   

WHERE:  Bartle Hall Ballroom 2103, Kansas City Convention Center, Kansas City, Mo.  A recent study by the United Postal Service identified Kansas City as the optimal location for an e-commerce fulfillment facility due to its low costs and central location. 

ABOUT KC SMARTPORT

KC SmartPort is the authority on logistics opportunities in the 18-county, bi-state Kansas City region.  A non-profit economic development organization, KC SmartPort promotes and enhances the Kansas City region’s status as a leading North American logistics hub.  KC SmartPort is affiliated with the Kansas City Area Development Council, the regional economic development organization for the 18-county Kansas City metro.  www.KCSmartPort.com