2026 RIA Summit Recap

Thank you for joining us in Atlanta!

The RIA is thrilled to share highlights from our 2026 RIA Summit! Our annual members-only gathering brought together retailers, brands, and associate partners from across the country, for three days of business meetings, line reviews, collaboration, connection, and peer sharing. Hosted from May 18th - 21st, in the Buckhead neighborhood of Atlanta, the Summit provided a venue for the top businesses in the run specialty channel to meet, share challenges and opportunities, and share ideas to further the interests of the run specialty channel.

RIA Summit: By the Numbers

427

Attendees

200

Retailers

34

Brands

12

Associates

84

Stores

2026 Highlights

Peer Sharing - Attendees met for round table sessions addressing industry topics including leadership & staff development and growth & long-term strategy.
Best In Show - Retailer attendees voted on their favorite products from the show. This year we added our Best In Show Speed Pitches where each brand had 1 minute to use their most creative approach to highlight their Best In Show entry. The raps and skits made for a memorable hour!
Fun Runs - Daily runs helped start each day on the right foot and featured demo shoes sponsored by HOKA, ASICS, and SKECHERS.
Run Specialty Roundtable - RIA member and The Running Well Store owner, Kathy Gates provided a data-driven presentation regarding customer behaviors across channels.
Headshots - All attendees had the opportunity to take complimentary, professional headshots during our Tuesday evening happy hour.
Lightning Rounds - Emerging and essentials brands shared their stories and featured their latest products during 6-10 minute presentations.
Industry Party - The Summit culminated in our annual Industry Party sponsored by Brooks at The Painted Pickle celebrating another successful Summit!

Best In Show Awards

Overall Best In Show

Three Way Tie!

Brooks Glycerin 24
Altra Torin 9
Mount to Coast H1

Footwear

Altra Torin 9

Apparel/Essentials

Shokz OpenFit Pro

Emerging Brand

Mount to Coast H1

Join the RIA to Join the Fun!

The RIA Summit is a member’s only event for retail store owners, general managers, buyers and key staff. Become a member today to be eligible to attend next spring.

For questions about the Summit, please email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

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