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.
Conference Day 1
Monday, March 10
Participation in the Partner Plus+ program is by invitation only.
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.
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.
From cybersecurity threats to physical store safety, convenience retailers face a range of risks that can impact operations and reputation. This discussion will cover strategies for mitigating risk, enhancing security measures, and preparing for potential crises. Attendees will collaborate on best practices for creating safe and resilient businesses.
Designed for: Retailers and suppliers with responsibility for safeguarding retail operations, both in the physical and digital realms.
Facilitated By: Roy Strasburger, Vision Group Network
Attracting, retaining, and developing talent is more challenging than ever. This roundtable will explore best practices for staffing, innovative training programs, and competitive benefits packages that help build a strong workforce. Attendees will share insights on reducing turnover, fostering employee engagement, and creating a workplace culture that drives long-term success. Designed for: Retailers and suppliers responsible for attracting, retaining, and developing talent, as well as creating a positive workplace culture within convenience retail organizations.
Facilitated By: Myra Kressner, Vision Group Network
What motivates customers to visit a convenience store today, and how is that changing? This discussion focuses on evolving trip drivers, shifting shopping habits, and the emerging preferences of modern consumers. Attendees will exchange ideas on how to enhance the in-store experience, capitalize on key traffic-driving categories, and meet customer expectations in an increasingly competitive landscape.
Designed for: Retailers and suppliers who focus on customer behavior, store experience, and sales growth.
Facilitated By: Dee Cleveland, Hunt Brothers Pizza
As regulations, consumer preferences, and product innovations continue to reshape the tobacco category, this roundtable dives into the latest trends and challenges facing convenience retailers and suppliers, with a focus on harm reduction strategies. Attendees will explore how the tobacco industry is evolving, including the rise of alternative products aimed at reducing harm, while managing compliance, diversifying product offerings, and adapting to shifting customer behaviors. The discussion will cover ways to maintain profitability while integrating harm reduction options and educating consumers about safer alternatives.
Designed for: Retailers and suppliers who have direct connection to the tobacco category, any operations and marketing leaders, as well as anyone who would like to be informed on emerging tobacco trends and regulations.
Facilitated By: Reynolds
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