In 2023, inflation cooled from 40-year highs despite consumer spending and employment continuing to defy expectations. The question on everyone's minds is whether United States can continue to gain momentum over the next 12 to18 months given potential shifts in international prospects and U.S. policy. In his mid-year overview of the U.S. economy, Arjun Chakravarti will discuss why he believes unprecedented differences in U.S. consumers' sentiment and personal circumstances (consumer costs, job prospects and accrued wealth) can tell us whether we are looking at breakout growth, stagnation or prolonged inflation both for retail spend and the broader macroeconomy.  

Explore the future of convenience stores with Allie Kelly, Executive Director of The Ray, as she unveils strategies for revenue growth through advanced infrastructure. Learn how implementing solutions like highway solar arrays and recycled tire asphalt can drive profitability in your store. Discover the potential of roadside solar installations and eco-friendly parking lots to not only boost revenue but also enhance your bottom line. Don't miss this opportunity to pave the way for a more lucrative future in transportation and retail.

Who are the top operators in our industry?  In this session we will invite the three finalists on stage for the announcement of the winner of the annual Intouch-CSP Customer Experience Award.  Before presenting the award, we will analyze store execution across multiple dimensions and tackle industry challenges head-on. Offering exclusive analysis across leading chains, Intouch Insight President & CEO Cameron Watt shares how customer expectations are changing and how and where c-stores must continue to adapt.

Get ready for a high-octane session where C-suite executives take center stage! Join Abbey Lewis and Derek Gaskins for a rapid-fire Q&A with top-level executives. This dynamic discussion will delve into the most pressing challenges, innovative strategies, and future visions of industry leaders.

From mastering disruptions to fueling growth, these leaders will reveal their insights, lessons learned, and actionable recommendations. Brace yourself for an engaging session that guarantees to ignite inspiration and deliver valuable insights.

Faced with inflationary pressures and consumer uncertainty, the convenience community is facing stresses that stretch beyond the normal competitive rhythms. Our costs our higher, consumer spend is tighter and expectations have rarely been greater.
So, what are we doing?
 

Some retailers are seizing the opportunity and pursuing greatness. In recent years, BP has expanded its U.S. retail landscape, gaining full control of Thorntons and TravelCenters of America, in addition to its legacy ampm stores. The company has been rolling out new in-store programs, expanding EV and embracing a new tomorrow.
 

Dash In has transformed over the past half-dozen years from a reputable fuel marketer with a steady retail presence to one of the industry’s leading mid-size operators, competing against the likes of Wawa, Royal Farms and Sheetz.
We talk to the leaders behind these companies’ retail transformations and explore what’s exciting them about the future of convenience.

Gain valuable insights into Threat Assessment & Management within the retail industry as Frank Patercity, Director of Corporate Security at Kroger, leads this informative session.  Discover how a systematic approach is vital for identifying, assessing, and managing risks that can impact operations, assets and personnel in C-stores and retail settings.  Frank will share insights on the critical importance of managing threats and concerning behavior and offer strategies on Active Assailant response & prevention.  Learn how implementing these measures can enhance resilience, minimize vulnerabilities, and create a safer environment for employees and customers, safeguarding business continuity, reputation, and profitability.

Abbey Lewis hosts a vibrant discussion featuring a diverse consumer panel, each representing a different generation—Gen Z, Millennials, Gen X, and Baby Boomers. They'll dive deep into the hottest topics driving the convenience store industry, sharing invaluable insights into consumer trends, preferences, and behaviors.
 
Don't miss this opportunity to gain actionable knowledge and strategic insights that can propel your business forward in today's fiercely competitive environment.
 
Submit your questions by clicking here for the panelists before the conference or engage in real-time Q&A on the conference app during the session. Join us for an experience that promises to illuminate the path to success in the ever-evolving world of convenience retail.