The National Retail Federation (NRF) has announced a multimillion-dollar investment to form a new department within the organization focusing on industry research.

According to the organization, the Retail Research and Analysis Center will bring together all existing research within NRF and expand upon the wide range of issue areas and trends already studied. The center will focus on four main areas: the economy, legislative and regulatory policy, the retail industry and consumers.

“NRF is at the forefront of research and analysis that impact our industry, the consumers it serves and the economy in which it operates,” said Matthew Shay, NRF's president and CEO. “By significantly investing in the future expansion and scope of NRF research, our members will have additional tools and insight as they operate in a very dynamic marketplace. And, our advocates will have the facts they need to advance retail’s policy agenda.”

Shay also announced that Ellen Davis will now serve as NRF’s senior vice president of research and strategic initiatives. Davis will continue to function as executive director of the NRF Foundation as well.

“NRF is an acknowledged leader in advocacy, research, education and analysis. The formation and funding of the Retail Research and Analysis Center will allow us to take this important function to the next level, with the resources necessary to deliver real results for our members and the industry,” added Shay.

For more information, visit NRF.com.