South Dakota Retailers Association to Host Annual Business Conference Focused on AI and Customer Experience

Steve Jurrens
Dec 4
2 min read

Retailers gather at "Connections That Count" conference, focusing on AI and customer experience. South Dakota Retailers Association hosts.

Northeast Radio SD News – Pierre, SD: The South Dakota Retailers Association (SDRA) is set to host its annual business conference, themed “Connections that Count,” on Monday, January 12, 2026, at the Ramkota Hotel and Conference Center in Pierre. The event aims to equip business owners with practical strategies for navigating artificial intelligence (AI) and enhancing customer experience.

The conference is designed to provide attendees with usable tactics for business improvement, alongside significant networking opportunities within South Dakota’s business community.

SDRA Board President Sarah Hustead of Wall Drug noted, “This is a positive, pro-business event that arms people with usable tactics to improve their business.” She added that it is also a “fantastic networking opportunity for South Dakota’s business community.”

Key sessions at the “Connections that Count” conference include hands-on AI training led by Dakota State University Associate Professor Austin O’Brien and interactive customer experience training from FiveFour.

Timed to occur just before the legislative session opens, the conference will also feature a legislative reception. The event will culminate with the presentation of the SDRA's annual awards, including Retailer of the Year, Restaurant of the Year, and the Community Service award winners.

Nathan Sanderson, SDRA Executive Director, expressed excitement about the closing ceremony, stating, “Recognizing some of South Dakota’s outstanding business leaders is a great way to top off the event. This year’s award winners are elevating the game in their communities...”

The conference is free for SDRA members. Other businesses, the general public, and interested stakeholders are also encouraged to attend. Meals are included with registration.

Registration for the “Connections that Count” conference is open through Wednesday, January 7. Interested parties can register or learn more by visiting sdra.org/bizconference.