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NRF12: Opening remarks from NRF president Matthew Shay

Successes on Capitol Hill were the highlight of the opening address.

January 18, 2012

Matthew Shay, who took the helm of NRF as president and CEO in May 2010, opened the 101st Annual "Big Show" this weekend with an overview of the organization's successes in 2011.

"Our strategic plan was founded on the vision that the retail industry can, should and must play a much more influential role on Capitol Hill, a role that reflects the one that we play in our nation's economy," he said. "We're making real progress in achieving that vision."

Among the successes Shay highlighted were limits on swipe fees, free trade agreements and sales tax fairness for retailers.

You can see the full opening address below ... and stay tuned to Retail Customer Experience in the coming days for exclusive video and photos from the NRF 2012 show floor.