Nationwide Marketing Group (NMG) has named hospitality expert and bestselling author Will Guidara as the keynote speaker for PrimeTime Nashville, where he will discuss how independent retailers can use customer experience to strengthen loyalty and compete against larger chains.
Guidara, author of the New York Times bestseller Unreasonable Hospitality and former co-owner of New York City’s Michelin-starred Eleven Madison Park, will deliver the event’s mainstage keynote on Sunday, Aug. 23, at Music City Center in downtown Nashville.
His presentation will focus on creating memorable customer interactions and applying hospitality principles to retail, aligning with Nationwide’s emphasis on helping independent dealers differentiate through service and relationships.
“Will’s approach to hospitality resonates beyond the restaurant scene,” said Melissa Stenson, vice president of member experience for NMG. “As we continue to emphasize the ‘Power of Connection’ at PrimeTime, his message shows the power a single, memorable interaction can have on a customer’s overall sentiment and sense of connection to a business.”
While Guidara is best known for his work in fine dining, his “unreasonable hospitality” philosophy has gained broader recognition through the Emmy Award-winning series The Bear, where it was featured during the show’s second and third seasons. Guidara also served as a co-producer and made a cameo appearance in the series.
Nationwide said attendees can expect practical insights on building stronger customer relationships and creating experiences that encourage repeat business—an area that continues to be a competitive advantage for independent appliance and consumer electronics retailers.
“Human connection is at the heart of what we do,” said Tom Hickman, CEO of Nationwide Marketing Group. “Will’s ability to elevate ordinary experiences builds on this foundation and challenges our members to differentiate in a way that big box simply can’t replicate.”
PrimeTime Nashville is one of Nationwide Marketing Group’s flagship member events, bringing together independent retailers, manufacturers, and industry partners for product showcases, educational sessions and networking opportunities. Guidara’s keynote is scheduled for 5 p.m. CT on Aug. 23.
See also: Registration Opens For NMG’s 2026 Summer PrimeTime
