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Share. Connect. Amplify.

Chicago 2022

May 16-19, Westin Hotel - Michigan Avenue

Runchella 2022, RIA’s annual member summit, will combine the best of KICK 2019 and Runchella 2021 in a not-to-be-missed spring event where you can share, connect and amplify.

  • Share—Peer sharing discussions offering industry insights and best practices. 

  • Connect—Preview product from top brands, plus meet with brand executives and account managers.

  • Amplify—Workshops designed to solve your current business challenges and drive your business forward.

Runchella is designed for owners, buyers, key staff and brand personnel in the specialty run channel.
***Online registration for Runchella has closed. If you remain interested in attending, please contact Terry Schalow This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

When?

Monday May 16 - Thursday May 19

Arrive Monday afternoon, depart Thursday midday

Cost?

Retailer registration is closed

For Brands & Associates, please contact Terry Schalow for details

Where?

Chicago, Illinois

At the Westin Michigan Avenue Chicago Venue details below.

2022 Program & Schedule

The programming will deep dive into key business topics via workshop settings, peer sharing sessions, and collaborative meetings with top brands. We’ll move away from pre-assigned schedules and allow attendees to select the sessions that matter most to them and their current business needs. In the spirit of Runchella, participants can also look forward to quality time with retail and brand colleagues from across the county.

  • Breakfast and lunch will be provided Tuesday & Wednesday

  • Breakfast only on Thursday

Get the Most Out of Runchella with the RIA Connect App

Download RIA Connect

Brands & Retailers: Download your complete guide to navigating Runchella 2022.  

Planning Guide for Retailers
Planning Guide for Brands

Monday, May 16

3:00pm-5:00pm: Registration
5:00pm-7:00pm: Opening Night Event

Complimentary cocktails & appetizers will be served

Tuesday, May 17

Group Run 6:30am
Networking Breakfast: 7:00am-8:15am
Morning Session 8:30am-12:00pm

Staff Sessions: Professional Development Programming

  1. How to use data to inform decisions – Exploring the sources of data, interpreting key metrics, and putting them to use
    Intended for buyers and brand account reps/channel managers

  2. How to improve your marketing strategy campaign - Get inspired, learn best practices and workshop a mini-plan for your store
    Intended for marketing personnel

Owner & GM Sessions: Top to Top Meetings with brand executives
Choose the brands you want to connect with and the RIA will set up those meetings for you 

Networking Lunch: 12:00pm-1:00pm
Afternoon Session 1:00pm-5:30 pm

Brand Presentations – For all show attendees
See the top footwear, apparel and accessory brands for business reviews and product presentations

Brand Open House: 5:30-6:30pm

Wednesday, May 18

Group Run: 6:30am
Networking Breakfast: 7:00am-8:15am
Morning Session 8:30am-12:00pm

Staff Sessions: Professional Development Programming

Peer to Peer Mastermind Conversations
These moderated sessions will focus on relevant business topics  

Owner & GM Sessions: Top to Top Meetings with brand executives
Choose the brands you want to connect with and the RIA will set up those meetings for you

Networking Lunch: 12:00pm-1:00pm
Afternoon Session 1:00pm-5:30pm

Brand Presentations: For all show attendees
See the top footwear, apparel and accessory brands for business reviews and product presentations

Runchella Party: 8:30-11:30 pm

Thursday, May 19

Group Run: 6:30am
Networking Breakfast: 7:00am-8:15am
Morning Session: 8:30 am–12 pm

Emerging brand and associate presentations in succinct 30-minute sessions

Programming ends at 12pm and special rebates will be distributed for those attending the entire conference. Plan to stay!

More Reasons to Attend Runchella - A 2021 Snapshot

The Westin Michigan Avenue - Chicago

RIA will follow up with information on customizing your schedule after you register.

Location. Location. Location. The Westin Michigan Avenue Chicago is on the north end of the "Magnificent Mile", Chicago's premier commercial district, bustling with luxe shopping and vibrant restaurants. It is a 5-minute walk to Oak Street Beach & the iconic Lakefront Trail.

The 18-mile Lakefront Trail is one of the most spectacular urban runs in the country. This route has it all: gorgeous views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline, urban beaches, marinas, and beautiful parks, passing by some of the city’s famous cultural institutions.

Image of elegant hotel room

The Rooms

Relax each night in a spacious hotel room featuring sweeping views starting at $199 for retailers. The group rate is based upon availability so don't delay!

The Food

Chicago is known for its incredible cuisine and thus the Westin Michigan Avenue Chicago will not disappoint. There will be a tasty selection of food options to accommodate all types of diets.

Registered for Runchella and need to book your room? Use the form below to log in and access the hotel booking link.
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Retailer Registration Is Now Closed!

Runchella is intended for members of the Running Industry Association. If you're a member, use the form below to log in and register. Not yet a member? Consider joining the RIA today!

Log in to register