Retail Fuse 2025: Inspire. Recruit. Connect.

Retail Fuse 2025
Date: Wednesday, October 1, 2025
Time: 4:00 – 7:00 PM
Location: Bear Down Gym, University of Arizona
What is Retail Fuse?
Retail Fuse is not your typical career fair—it's a high-energy, interactive networking experience hosted by the Terry J. Lundgren Center for Retailing at the University of Arizona. Designed to connect top retail companies with future industry leaders, this event offers a unique opportunity to engage with the next generation of retail and consumer science professionals in an intentional and dynamic setting. Unlike traditional job fairs, Retail Fuse offers curated, small-group conversations between recruiters and students. Each company is assigned to a table and rotated through engaging, guided discussions with groups of 7–10 students. This format fosters genuine dialogue, gives students the confidence to ask thoughtful questions, and ensures companies have meaningful, high-quality interactions with participants.
Why Participate as a Company?
Recruiters and professionals who attend Retail Fuse gain access to:
- Targeted Talent: Meet driven, career-ready students from our Retailing & Consumer Science (RCSC) program who are actively seeking internships, full-time roles, and industry mentorship.
- Authentic Engagement: Engage with students in an intimate, low-pressure environment designed for connection, not crowded booths or long lines.
- Recruitment Pipeline: Build your early talent pipeline with access to future leaders in brand management, buying, merchandising, consumer behavior, marketing, and retail innovation.
- Industry Exposure: Share your insights as a thought leader during optional speaking or panel opportunities and position your brand as a champion for talent development.
- Brand Visibility: Strengthen your campus presence and showcase your company’s culture, values, and opportunities to a diverse student audience. culture, values, and opportunities for a diverse student audience.
Past and Future Sponsors
Who Are Our Students?
The Retailing and Consumer Science (RCSC) program at the University of Arizona prepares students for the evolving landscape of retail and brand experience. With coursework rooted in marketing, consumer behavior, digital commerce, product development, and analytics, RCSC students graduate with the hands-on skills and industry knowledge needed to thrive in today's retail careers.
Our students are:
- Curious and creative problem-solvers
- Trained in business, marketing, and data-driven strategy
- Engaged in real-world learning, internships, and leadership programs
- Passionate about innovation, consumer experiences, and brand impact
What Happens at Retail Fuse?
- Panel Discussions & Guest Speakers: Hear from respected alumni and leaders from brands across the industry as they share insights, career stories, and lessons learned.
- Interactive Networking: Participate in structured group sessions and open networking designed to maximize authentic conversations.
- Career Readiness Workshops: Students gain tools for building their careers—from learning how to network to navigating tough interview questions.
- Food, Fun, and Connection: Enjoy complimentary food, drinks, and dessert in a lively atmosphere that promotes genuine engagement.
Want to Learn More or Confirm Your Spot?
For questions or more information, contact:
Sheila Kressler-Crowley
Director,
Terry J. Lundgren Center for Retailing
sheiladkressler@arizona.edu