NRF names Abercrombie & Fitch Co. CEO Horowitz as The Visionary 2026

The National Retail Federation today announced that Abercrombie & Fitch Co. CEO Fran Horowitz will receive The Visionary award at the 11th annual NRF Foundation Honors on January 11, 2026, in New York City.

“Fran Horowitz recognizes the value of building authentic, customer-centric retail brands — a vision that has transformed Abercrombie & Fitch Co.,” NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay said. “Abercrombie & Fitch and Hollister remain iconic names at the heart of retail, and under Fran’s leadership and direction, the company continues to grow and thrive. We’re proud to honor her as this year’s Visionary.”

Horowitz has served as CEO of Abercrombie & Fitch Co. since 2017. She joined the company in 2014 as president of its Hollister brand and was promoted to president and chief merchandising officer for Abercrombie & Fitch Co. in 2015. Prior to joining the company, Horowitz served as brand president at Ann Taylor Loft, executive vice president at Express, Inc. and held merchandising roles at Bloomingdales.

With more than 30 years of retail experience, Horowitz has established herself as an expert in building brands and is a globally recognized industry leader. Under her leadership, the success of Abercrombie & Fitch Co. can be attributed to an increased focus on listening to its customers, resulting in compelling product and engaging brand experiences that resonate around the world. After years of transformation, the company has delivered consistent growth domestically and internationally over the past several years and is widely viewed as a leading case study for retailers looking to evolve their brands.

“Our incredible team at Abercrombie & Fitch Co. has executed one of the most successful turnarounds in retail, and leading this work has been the highlight of my career,” Horowitz said. “From our iconic global brands, to our operating model, to our company’s culture, we’ve reexamined and rebuilt every aspect of our business, all while leading with purpose and keeping our customer at the center of every decision. I’m beyond proud of our global team for all they do to drive our business forward and it is an honor for NRF to recognize A&F Co.’s remarkable achievements.”

Horowitz will also participate in a fireside chat with Shay on January 12 at NRF 2026: Retail’s Big Show.

Previous recipients of The Visionary award include Tommy Hilfiger Founder and Principal Designer Tommy Hilfiger; DICK’S Sporting Goods Executive Chairman Ed Stack; Lowe's Chairman and CEO Marvin Ellison; Target Corp. Board Chairman and CEO Brian Cornell; former Kohl’s CEO Michelle Gass; Nike Executive Chairman Mark Parker; Walmart President and CEO Doug McMillon, and former Levi Strauss & Co. President and CEO Chip Bergh.