The National Bicycle Dealers Association (NBDA) today announced the agenda for the 2026 NBDA Retailer Summit Central, taking place June 9–11, 2026 in Bentonville, Arkansas.
Now in its fourth year, the Summit continues to establish itself as the premier gathering for specialty bicycle retailers and industry partners- bringing together leaders, innovators, and decision-makers for three days focused on driving profitability, strengthening connections, and shaping the future of the industry.
A Focused, High-Impact Agenda for Today's Retailer
The 2026 program is intentionally designed to address the most critical business needs facing retailers right now- combining strategic insight with real-world, actionable education.
"This is where retailers come to get clarity and take action," said Heather Mason, Executive Director of the NBDA. "We've built an agenda that delivers practical tools, honest conversations, and direct access to the people and ideas that can truly move a business forward."
Featured Topics & Speaker Highlights
This year's Summit brings together a powerful lineup of voices across retail, legal, marketing, and operations, with a strong emphasis on practical application:
● Retail Strategy & Industry Insight
○ Donny Perry explores the realities of "Retail Whiplash," helping retailers navigate ongoing market volatility
○ Rick Vosper delivers a compelling look at the evolution of supplier-retailer relationships and what it means for today's business landscape
● Profitability & Business Growth
○ James Moore shares how used bike programs can unlock stronger margins and expand access to cycling
○ Sessions focused on youth engagement and family lifetime value highlight how retailers can build long-term customer relationships that drive sustained growth
● Retailer University: Core Business Skills
○ Hands-on sessions led by the NBDA team cover financial fundamentals, inventory management, service center profitability, and marketing execution- giving retailers tools they can implement immediately
● Legal & Risk Management
○ Jim Moss provides critical guidance on rentals, liability, group rides, and protecting your business
○ Charlie Thomas addresses the balance between safety, advocacy, and growing ridership - helping retailers build trust while managing risk
● Modern Retail & Customer Behavior
○ Derrick Boatwright breaks down how changing consumer search behavior is impacting how customers find and choose bike shops, and what retailers must do to stay competitive
E-Mobility and the Future of Retail
Day three of the Summit is fully dedicated to E-Mobility, aligning with Bentonville Bike Fest and featuring participation from leading brands including Bosch.
A featured e-bike policy and safety panel- with leaders from the League of American Bicyclists, UL Standards & Engagement, and Safe Routes Partnership- will address the critical intersection of policy, infrastructure, and rider education as e-bike adoption accelerates across the country.
This focused day ensures retailers are equipped with the insights, strategies, and partnerships needed to confidently lead in the evolving e-mobility landscape.
More Than Education—A True Industry Experience
The Summit experience extends well beyond the classroom, with opportunities to connect and engage including:
● Group rides on Bentonville's world-class trail system
● Networking events and after-hours gatherings, including The Bike Inn
● Arkansas Global Cycling Accelerator Demo Night
● Early access and VIP experiences at Bentonville Bike Fest
● Live music and curated social experiences designed to build lasting relationships
A Call to Retailers: Be Part of What's Next
Retailers are encouraged to attend and engage in the conversations that are actively shaping the future of specialty bicycle retail.
Register now and secure your place at the center of the industry.
A Call to Brands: Show Up for Retail
Supplier partners are invited to participate as Summit partners, offering a unique opportunity to connect directly with engaged retailers and demonstrate commitment to the independent channel.
To learn more about partnership opportunities, contact:
● Megan Schmidt: Megan@nbda.com
● Heather Mason: Heather@nbda.com
Join Us in Bentonville
The 2026 NBDA Retailer Summit Central is where the industry aligns, collaborates, and takes action.
Thanks to generous support from NBDA partners, retailers can save 50% off registration by using code VIP at checkout. Space is limited to 200 attendees, and spots are filling quickly. Register here. Top retailers and suppliers have already confirmed their attendance. View the full list of attendees here.
2026 Summit Sponsors Include: TrackFly, Ikeono, CABDA, UL Standards & Engagement, QBP, Bikeflights, Citrus Lime, Bulls Bikes, Budlong Bikes, Vello Bike, Workstand, Aurora Payments, Upway, Vault Sports Box, HPS, HLC, eBikes International, Electric Bikes of Chicago, Risse Racing, Shop Shepard, Batch , and supporting partners including the League of American Bicyclists, Bentonville Bike Fest, Visit Bentonville, The Bike Inn, Buddy Pegs, and the Arkansas Global Cycling Accelerator.
The Summit takes place alongside the Bentonville Bike Fest, creating a six-day celebration of cycling. Retailers who stay beyond the Summit can connect directly with consumers and explore the latest innovations in cycling and e-mobility, with early access to the show on Friday, June 12.
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About the National Bicycle Dealers Association (NBDA):
The NBDA is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and promoting independent bicycle dealers. Through various initiatives, education programs, and networking opportunities, the NBDA strives to elevate the bicycle retail industry and empower dealers for long-term success. For more information about the NBDA and its initiatives, please visit www.nbda.com.
