Panelists will speak at the conference about a variety of topics, starting with "Beyond the Horizon – Trends Impacting Tomorrow," at 10:30 a.m. today. Speakers from firms Bain Capital, Goldman Sachs, National Realty & Development and Vornado Realty Trust will discuss the impact of mergers and acquisitions on the industry, among other topics.

Later today, retailers, including Checkers, Dunkin Donuts and Wild Oats, will discuss their expansion plans in the region as well as nationally. Other discussions include the examination of mixed-use projects as well as Wall Street's take on the retail real estate sector.

On Tuesday and Wednesday exhibitors and attendees will take part in the Deal Making exhibition, where developers, brokers, retailers, municipalities and other will discuss present and future retail projects.

Last year's show had approximately 7,100 attendees, and ICSC expects around 7,500 to show up this year. In the deal making area, 300 companies exhibited, and about 330 are expected to be on display this year.