Onsite General Sessions
Presentation Access:
PDFs of session presentations will be available following the conference. PDF’s we will be able to share are noted within each session description!
Controlling the Uncontrollable
We all know operating a convenience store is often impeded by circumstances out of our control. Today’s sessions are meant to demonstrate how the best operators work to keep an eye on what these challenges are and stay ahead in order to minimize the impacts they bring.
9:00am – 9:45am
Unpacking Economic Threats: Inflation Dynamics & Supply Chain Challenges
Inflationary pressures have surged, elevating prices and escalating labor and real estate costs to unprecedented levels. Meanwhile, retailers find themselves grappling with continued supply chain hurdles, which have left them juggling product and ingredient swaps in the face of out-of-stocks. In this session, retailers share insights on how they’re meeting the moment, coping with inflation, adapting pricing strategies, optimizing inventory management and more.
Panelists: Tom Newbould Lead, Business Transformation | W. Capra, Paul Crozier Director of Category | Sheetz, Nick Triantafellou Director of Merchandising & Marketing | Weigel’s
Moderated By Allison Dean Executive Director | National Advisory Group
9:45am – 10:30am
Compliance Crossroads: A session with the National Association of Tobacco Outlets
In an era of evolving regulations, compliance is a critical balancing act for convenience store operators. From navigating ENDS regulations that pit compliant retailers against bad actors to preparing for the FDA’s costly and complex food traceability mandates, staying ahead of the curve is no small feat. Especially while those who opt to play outside the rules make it challenging to compete. This session will provide a comprehensive overview of the current tobacco and vape landscape, including regulation and enforcement updates. Then, shift focus to the emerging food traceability rules that promise significant operational challenges. This session will explore actionable strategies to manage compliance effectively, leverage resources, and minimize disruptions.
Panelists: Jessica Williams Founder & CEO | Food Forward Thinking, John O’Brien VP & Asst. General Counsel for Regulatory Affairs | Reynolds
Moderated by Will Woodlee Managing Partner | Kleinfeld, Kaplan & Becker LLP, NATO General Counsel
1:15pm – 2:00pm
Savoring Simplicity: Streamlining Foodservice in Convenience Stores
Crowded c-store menus are becoming a thing of the past. More c-stores today are focused on simplifying the menu to ensure easy and consistent product execution amid frequent staff turnover and to help lower mounting costs. Made to order isn’t the only way to succeed with food, and more chains are opting for pre-prepared/pre-assembled options for a streamlined approach with a focus on high quality and a paired down menu. Retailers share how they’re changing their menus, how it’s working and how customization fits into the puzzle.
Panelists: Stephen Skidds Director Fresh Foods / Culinary | Nouria, Michael Wensel Fresh Food Category Manager | Quality Dairy Co., Joy Almekies Senior Director Food Services | Global Partners / Alltown Fresh, Derek Thurston Director of Food Service | Cliffs Local Market
Moderated by Erin Del Conte Editor in Chief | CStore Decisions
Keynote Address
5:00pm – 6:00pm
Viral Vision: Redefining Retail with Fav Trip’s Bold Approach
Babir Sultan, President of Fav Trip, turned his Kansas City convenience store into a social media sensation by using YouTube to shine a light on theft—and gained a massive following in the process. In this captivating keynote, Babir shares how he transformed a local challenge into a global opportunity, creating a brand known for its transparency, creativity, and resilience. Discover his approach to storytelling, leveraging social media for growth, and using unconventional methods to engage customers and build community loyalty. Don’t miss this inspiring session packed with lessons for modern retailers.
Keynote Speaker: Babir Sultan, President | FavTrip
Smarter… not Harder
The topics today are designed to help demonstrate how intentional, thoughtful preparation and resourcefulness can launch you ahead. ‘Working Smarter, Not Harder’ is the opposite of being reactionary.
9:00am – 9:45am
Data Demystified: How to Harness Data-Driven Insights for Strategic Decision Making
As c-stores enter the digital landscape, from apps, loyalty programs and mobile/online ordering, to artificial intelligence capabilities and even autonomous stores, operators are collecting more data than ever before. But how do they begin to mine that data and apply it to grow their business? Retailers and experts discuss potential roadmaps for navigating the vast landscape of data analytics. Learn how other chains are beginning their journey towards making sense of data and leveraging it effectively to inform critical business decisions.
Panelists: Todd Hauptmann Vice President of IT | Road Ranger, Scott Smith Vice President of IT | Parkers, Lenny Smith Vice President | Crosby’s
Moderated by Abbey Karel VP of Growth | Bounteous
9:45am – 10:30am
LTO Mastery: Crafting a winning Limited-Time Offer strategy
Limited-time offers (LTOs) can drive excitement from the snack aisle to the foodservice counter. Learn the secrets to leveraging limited resources effectively to maximize the impact of your LTO campaigns, allowing you to achieve more with less. Retailers will discuss tactics and innovative approaches to elevate your LTO game and stay ahead of the competition in the fast-paced convenience store industry.
Panelists: Ryan Blevins Director of Food and Beverage Innovation | Weigels, M. David May Director of Food Service | Kwik Stop Convenience Stores, Philip Santini Sr. Director of Advertising & Food Service | The Rutter’s Companies
Moderated by Erin Del Conte Editor in Chief | CStore Decisions
1:15pm – 2:00pm
Layout Revolution: Modernizing your C-Store Design
In today’s marketplace, customers are presented with a plethora of choices, making it imperative for businesses to stand out. Investing in an upscale design not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your establishment but also acts as a magnet for potential customers, particularly those seeking foodservice offerings. Drawing upon insights from both retailers and experts, this session will identify how your c- store design can take your business to the next level, share efficiency considerations, and discuss how modernizing through design can prepare your store for the future.
Panelists: Trenton Langston Vice President | Calloway Oil Company / EZ Stop, John Koch CEO | Rusty Lantern Markets
Moderated by Austin Burns President & CEO | Paragon Solutions