The Australian Association of Convenience Stores (AACS) and C&I Media have announced a new five-year strategic alliance to commence from 2026.
AACS, the peak body for convenience retailing in Australia, and C&I Media, the leading media outlet representing the petrol and convenience industry, will co-locate their major annual events commencing from March 2026 in Sydney at the International Convention and Exhibition Centre (ICC Sydney).
This partnership will provide the ideal platform for retailers and suppliers to come together and hear from some of the leading minds in the P&C industry at AACS Connect, while also being able to showcase, discover, and learn new trends at the industry’s biggest trade show, the C&I Expo.
Safa de Valois, Group Publisher of C&I Media, said this partnership is a game-changer for the petrol and convenience industry.
“By aligning these events, we’re providing an unparalleled platform for knowledge sharing and innovation. Retailers and suppliers can now access the best insights and trends all in one place.
“In 2026, the convenience retail industry will have a unique opportunity to gather, learn, and grow. For years, attendees and exhibitors at the C&I Expo have been suggesting C&I and AACS run our events together, and in March 2026 it will finally happen. We’re making it easier for the industry to come together, innovate, and advance.”
Theo Foukkare, CEO of AACS, said this strategic alliance of bringing together the two largest events in the convenience industry will enable retailers and suppliers of all sizes to connect, learn, and discover the latest industry trends all in one location.
“Co-locating with C&I will not only showcase innovation and learnings but will also hopefully give time back to our members to spend in their own businesses and reduce their travel.”
AACS represents over 100 leading suppliers as well as the majority of convenience retail brands nationally, collectively operating almost 7000 retail outlets.
“Over the past few years, AACS retailer and supplier members have raised this initiative as it would allow them to attend our Connect conference and awards whilst also visiting a trade show either as exhibitors or attendees.
“This new alliance has the full endorsement of the AACS Board and is a great example of listening and acting on our member’s feedback.”
Foukkare explained that AACS will take this opportunity to review its program and implement new initiatives that will deliver increased learnings and opportunities for its members.
Stay tuned for further communication on the official dates for the event set to take place in March 2026. Don’t miss this year’s C&I Expo, taking place at MCEC Melbourne next week on 29-30 October. Register here.
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