Annual executive event will examine how housewares businesses can combine artificial intelligence with the value of human experience
The International Housewares Association (IHA) is putting artificial intelligence, retail transformation and changing consumer behaviour at the heart of CHESS 2026, its annual Chief Housewares Executive SuperSession.
Taking place on 29-30th September at the Rosemont Hilton near Chicago’s O’Hare Airport, this year’s event is themed “Refortifying the Value of the Human Touch”, with the programme designed to help housewares leaders understand how technology can be balanced with human insight.
For kitchenware brands, suppliers and retailers, AI will be a major focus. New hands on AI leadership labs will examine how the technology is already being applied across e-commerce, social commerce, product discovery and everyday business operations.
Sessions include an interactive workshop on using AI across Amazon, TikTok and ChatGPT, while Conduit AI co-founders Rohan Shah and Anand Prabhu, will explore how AI can be integrated into daily workflows to improve team performance, sales and profitability.
Another session will consider the changing role of product reviews, looking at how AI systems are increasingly using consumer feedback when making product recommendations. A panel of industry insiders will also share case studies covering their experiences of adopting AI – including what has worked and what has not.
Retail remains another key theme. Mara Sirhal (right), Target’s senior vice president of merchandising, Home, will deliver the keynote, offering insight into Target’s strategy to strengthen its reputation as a design- and trend-led mass retailer while offering distinctive products at accessible prices.
The programme will also cover housewares retail sales and trends, consumer purchasing behaviour, the creator economy, tariffs and legislation, retail performance and shipping. Circana’s Joe Derochowski will provide an update on the latest housewares retail data and trends.
For kitchenware businesses navigating changing consumer expectations, e-commerce, international trade and AI-driven product discovery, the event provides an opportunity to consider how these developments could affect product development, marketing, retail strategy and supply chains.
CHESS 2026 will also provide networking opportunities for senior industry executives. The event is scheduled for 29-30th September, with the latest programme including dedicated AI sessions alongside retail and market focused education.
Registration is open via the IHA CHESS website.
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