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The National Association of Convenience Stores (NACS) annual trade show is the largest industry event for the convenience industry. Vendors and retailers from across the globe are coming together in Atlanta, GA from October 4th to October 6th to attend the show. Here’s what to expect at this year’s NACS show, for new attendees and NACS pros alike:
1. Familiar brands and new exhibitors:
The convenience industry encompasses tons of different vendors—and each one wants to capture your business at the NACS show. From international, household brands like The Hershey Company and Verifone, Inc., to new companies looking to show you what they’re made of. The new vendor area is accessible earlier than the rest of the show, starting at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday and Thursday and 9:00 a.m. Friday. Make sure to walk the show floor and stop to speak with representatives from all your favorite vendors and potential new favorites.
2. Talks from industry leaders:
Some of the most anticipated events at each NACS show are the numerous information sessions. Each day of the show features a general session with industry leaders, such as Don Rhoads, 2022-2023 NACS chairman, and Henry Armor, president and CEO of NACS. Many of the general sessions also include panel discussions for audience members to pick the ear of some of the biggest leaders in convenience.
In addition to the general sessions, attendees can register for nearly 50 different education sessions throughout the show. The sessions cover everything from hot topics such as the use of visual AI in convenience retail, to industry-specific challenges, such as navigating a shifting fuel market.
3. Lots of freebies:
One of the biggest parts of the NACS show is free samples from vendors. In-store merchandise and prepared food vendors give away their products for attendees to sample, including seasonal products for the upcoming year. Lots of vendors also give away branded items, such as tote bags, water bottles, lanyards, and more. Plus, the first 3,000 show attendees get exclusive access to the NACS Show Product Bag, stuffed with new and exciting products found at the show.
4. Cool New Products
The Cool New Products exhibition is an attendee favorite at NACS. This special exhibition area is reserved for companies looking to show their latest innovations. There are five product categories within the preview room: facility operations, foodservice, fuel equipment and services, merchandise, candy and snacks, and technology. The Cool New Products preview room opens prior to the official show, on Tuesday, October 3rd, so be sure to check it out.
5. John Cena
That’s right: John Cena is attending the 2023 NACS show. The WWE superstar and actor, known for his role in HBO’s “Peacemaker” series and 2023’s “Barbie” movie, is delivering a speech during the final general session. The session takes place from 8:30 A.M. to 9:30 A.M. on Friday, October 6th. According to the NACS show website, Cena will “…talk about how inspiration can lead to remarkable achievements and make a difference in everyday life.”
Visit Petrosoft at the 2023 NACS show at Booth B3533!
