WASHINGTON — The National Retail Federation said Monday it will honor Jay Schottenstein, executive chairman and CEO of American Eagle Outfitters, with its Visionary award at the 12th annual NRF Foundation Honors on January 10, 2027, in New York City.
The award recognizes Schottenstein's role in transforming American Eagle from a single-brand chain into a multi-brand company with more than $5 billion in revenue. "Jay Schottenstein's leadership has been instrumental in building AEO into the influential, multi-brand powerhouse it is today," said NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay. "His vision has guided AEO through decades of growth and change, helping to make the retailer a leader in denim, intimates and the specialty apparel space."
Under his leadership, American Eagle has held its position as a top destination for jeans while Aerie, the company's intimates and lifestyle brand, has grown rapidly. Schottenstein has also directed the company's philanthropic efforts, including the AE Foundation, the Aerie Real Foundation and the AEO Better World Foundation, which carries a $10 million endowment.
"It is a profound honor to be recognized as a NRF Visionary, which is a testament to the strength and spirit of AEO and our associates," Schottenstein said in a statement. "Having spent my entire life in retail, this industry has shaped who I am, and I'm incredibly proud of all we have achieved together." He noted the company is preparing to mark its 50th anniversary in 2027.
Beyond American Eagle, Schottenstein serves as chairman and CEO of SB360 Capital Partners and executive chairman of Designer Brands Inc., where he was CEO from 2005 to 2009. He also chairs Schottenstein Property Group and Schottenstein Stores Corp., the company his grandfather founded more than a century ago.
Schottenstein will join Shay for a fireside chat on January 11 at NRF 2027: Retail's Big Show. He joins a list of past Visionary award recipients that includes Abercrombie & Fitch CEO Fran Horowitz, Tommy Hilfiger founder Tommy Hilfiger, DICK'S Sporting Goods Executive Chairman Ed Stack, Lowe's Chairman and CEO Marvin Ellison, Target Executive Chairman Brian Cornell, former Kohl's CEO Michelle Gass, Nike Executive Chairman Mark Parker, former Walmart President and CEO Doug McMillon, and former Levi Strauss & Co. President and CEO Chip Bergh.
The NRF Foundation Honors, held annually since 2015, raises money for the NRF Foundation's work promoting retail careers and providing career-readiness resources, and includes the presentation of the foundation's undergraduate scholarships.
