Tariffs, Tightening Margins, and the AI Advantage: What Brands and Retailers Need to Know Now

Thursday, July 16, 2026 | Now On-Demand

The surf, outdoor, and active lifestyle industry is navigating a difficult convergence: trade policy uncertainty is squeezing margins and complicating sourcing, new sustainability legislation is reshaping end-of-life responsibilities for brands, and AI is transforming supply chain operations for the companies moving fastest.

This session, presented by RSM, offers practical, experience-backed guidance built for today’s brands and retailers, grounded in real-world examples and current data.

Who should attend: Apparel brands managing California’s EPR and textile regulations, specialty retailers navigating tariff volatility and cash flow pressure, and outdoor brands evaluating where AI can deliver results in their operations.

Key Takeaways:

  • Understand the current economic environment and what the near-term outlook means for your planning
  • Navigate the latest tariff and trade policy developments — sourcing, landed costs, and cash flow implications with brand-level examples
  • Get current on EPR and sustainability legislation, including new textile mandates and state-level developments most relevant to West Coast operators
  • See how outdoor and consumer goods brands are applying AI in supply chains today, from demand forecasting to fulfillment
  • Leave with a prioritized action plan for the regulatory, operational, and financial pressures most likely to affect your business this year

Speakers

Jake Winquist, Supply Chain and Operations Principal

Jake Winquist, Supply Chain and Operations Principal

RSM US LLP

Jodi Ader​, Trade Advisory Services Senior Manager

Jodi Ader​, Trade Advisory Services Senior Manager

RSM US LLP

Trish Beltran, ESG Advisory Services Director

Trish Beltran, ESG Advisory Services Director

RSM US LLP

Samantha Rustja, Sustainability Associate

Samantha Rustja, Sustainability Associate

RSM Canada

Kevin Depew, Deputy Chief Economist

Kevin Depew, Deputy Chief Economist

RSM US LLP

Tiffany Montgomery, Group Director of Content + Editorial, Sports and Retail

Tiffany Montgomery, Group Director of Content + Editorial, Sports and Retail

Shop, Eat, Surf Outdoor | Emerald

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Strategy & Planning Series
Strategy & Planning Series
Strategy & Planning Series
Strategy & Planning Series