At PrimeTime, the keynote sets the tone for the entire event. This spring’s kickoff general session was no exception. 

Embracing the “power of connection” as an ongoing PrimeTime theme, Nationwide Marketing Group (NMG) CEO Tom Hickman opened with a reminder that connection is what makes the independent channel “stronger together” — especially in challenging times. 

While tough seasons often expose big box weaknesses, these same seasons reveal independents’ underlying strengths, including adaptability, flexibility, and the ability to pivot quickly. 

Photo credit: NMG PrimeMedia

Hickman then listed five key advantages independent retailers have over their big box competitors. 

5 Independent Advantages 

1. Showrooms that sell — The right product assortment and in-store merchandising builds buyer confidence and tells a story that resonates. This, paired with a 24/7 online “showroom” is what drives traffic and conversions. 
2. Making every dollar count — Special programs, deals, and buying power bring competitive value to your in-store and online experiences. 
3. Delivery that delivers — The last mile leaves a lasting impression, impacting loyalty, referrals, and overall satisfaction. 
4. Service that sticks — Beyond delivery, ongoing support and follow-ups are essential to building and maintaining relationships with your customers. 
5. Rooted in community — You support local causes and sponsor events because you don’t just operate in your community; you’re part of it. 

Hickman went on to outline the NMG Advantage, designed to support independents to succeed at all of the above with the power of connection and togetherness. 

3 NMG Advantages 

1. Scale and buying power — With over 5,500 members, 14,000 total storefronts, and 440 vendor partners, the buying power of NMG’s membership is three times than the leading chains combined. 
2. Digital tools — From websites, marketing automation, digital advertising, and more, NMG’s OneShop helps you increase visibility and traffic, both online and in store. 
3. Hundreds of experts working for you — Through one-on-one, hands-on support, the NMG team is an extension of your team, ready to help your business thrive on your terms. 

With artificial intelligence (AI) continuing to dominate business conversations in 2026, Hickman assured attendees that the topic would be covered in various sessions throughout the four days of PrimeTime, starting with the mainstage keynote. He then introduced Mike Bechtel to kick off the discussion. 

Keynote: AI and Embracing New Technologies 

Delivered by Mike Bechtel, former Chief Futurist for Deloitte and current Professor of Corporate Innovation for the University of Notre Dame, the PrimeTime keynote focused heavily on AI and utilizing emerging technologies in ways that are practical, performance-driven, and, ultimately, profitable. To kick off his message, Bechtel pointed out that “there is a big difference between possible and profitable.”  

Following a brief overview of disruptive inventions over time, he then summarized that the most profitable innovations align with the goals of creating simpler, smarter, or stronger outcomes — AI included. 

To demystify the idea of AI, Bechtel noted that this monumental innovation is, in the simplest terms, a tool. And, like any tool, it requires people to make it function optimally. Specifically, AI requires tailored human input to achieve a more useful and useable output. “AI makes you more powerful and more needed, not less,” he emphasized. 

Bechtel also acknowledged that there has “never been a better time to be small,” as independents are able to pivot and adapt with greater speed and agility than that of their big box competitors. 

To close his presentation with a positive, actionable message, Bechtel encouraged attendees to lean into three additional strengths when seeking a profitable return on investment with any new technology. 

1. Ingenuity — Embrace curiosity and creativity to test and learn. 
2. Empathy — Put relationships first to better understand the people you serve. 
3. Initiative — Act instead of waiting to react. 

Or, as Bechtel’s own mother concluded, we can all learn something from the message of the Wizard of Oz. Successfully embracing new technologies takes brains, heart, and courage. 

Photo credit: NMG PrimeMedia