Chaired by industry pioneer Drew Cashmore, the network debuts with a founding cohort of senior executives representing major organizations including Costco, Ulta, The Home Depot, and Dollar General. The initiative aims to bridge the gap between retailers, brands, agencies, and technology providers by providing a structured platform for strategic development. Current founding members include Austin Leonard of DG Media Network, Mark Williamson of Costco, and Lauren Bolles of Tesco Media, among others tasked with steering the group's trajectory.

Marie Chevrier Schwartz, CEO of RETHINK Retail, noted that the rapid growth of retail media has outpaced existing industry structures, creating a need for a more mature business discipline. The network will host its inaugural summit in New York City this January, scheduled immediately preceding NRF 2027: Retail's Big Show. Susan Newman, Senior Vice President of Event Strategy at NRF, stated that the summit will serve as a venue for leaders to navigate the ongoing convergence of advertising, media, and commerce. Applications are currently open for industry professionals seeking to join the founding group.