When the C&I Expo 2016 opened its doors at midday yesterday (Wednesday, August 17, 2016) more than 120 expectant and enthusiastic exhibitors were ready for the crowds to arrive. And arrive they did, with more than 750 attendees through the doors.
On day one the show floor was abuzz with excitement as retailers and suppliers explored opportunities and were able to see, feel and touch the latest goods and services available to the convenience channel.
Both retailers and suppliers alike expressed their satisfaction with the trade show which will continue on Thursday, August 18, from noon to 5pm and is again expected to deliver excellent networking opportunities and last minute registrations can be made at the door.
AACS Leadership Summit
Delegates of the AACS Leadership Summit heard from author and consultant, Steve Simpson, and his “Unwritten Ground Rules” on workplace culture; Leo Pucar; GM of retail sales, Caltex Australia, who spoke about Caltex’s convenience journey; and Craig Urquhart, CEO of Nightowl on how the convenience chain is future proofing its business and the trends that it is adapting to its model locally.
Scott Hartman, president of Rutter’s USA, also presented at the AACS Leadership Summit on the company’s humble journey to become one of the leaders in the convenience and petrol channel in the USA.
Attendees also judged presentations by the six Peter Jowett finalists which included entrants from 7-Eleven, Phillip Morris and BP, and their responses to this year’s topic: “In light of increasing competition, particularly from supermarkets, pharmacies, dollar stores and low price retailers, how can convenience stores enhance value in order to generate profitable and sustainable growth?”
More to come
Stay in touch with the latest Expo news: The C&I team are providing live updates throughout the events on our social media channels including Facebook Live video streaming on our Facebook page. Attendees can also get involved by using the hashtag #ciexpo16.
For more exhibitor stand images click here.
Sign up to C&I’s free bi-weekly newsletter here to receive the latest industry news every Tuesday and Thursday. Follow C&I on Facebook, Twitter and Linkedin.