The C&I Expo is fast approaching with just 78 business days to go (or 111 days if, like many convenience retailers, you work weekends and public holidays too).
The Expo will be held at the Melbourne Exhibition and Convention Centre over two days on Wednesday August 17 and Thursday August 18, 2016 and provides a fantastic industry-wide opportunity for retailers, suppliers and advisors to get together, network and learn more about this dynamic retailing channel.
This year C&I has joined forces with the Australian Association of Convenience Stores (AACS) and the annual AACS Convenience Leadership Summit and Gala Awards Dinner co-located with the C&I Expo.
The theme of this year’s event is “Inspiring Change”. Twelve expert speakers will look at industry change from all standpoints – from in”store to management.
The first day of the Expo, Wednesday August 17, will kick off with the AACS Convenience Leadership Summit from 8.30am to midday. Entry to this event is free and open to all C&I 2016 delegates, suppliers and retailers. Four industry leaders will speak on the topic of ‘Inspiring Change’.
In addition six finalists in the AACS Peter Jowett Convenience Industry Scholarship Awards will present on the topic “In light of increasing competition, particularly from supermarkets, pharamacies, doll ar stores and low price retailers, how can convenience stores enhance value in order to generate profitable and sustainable growth?”.
From 12pm to 5pm, attendees can browse the C&I Expo where more than 130 exhibitors will be providing information, sample products and great deals for retailers.
This event is open only to those in the industry – the general public is not admitted – and allows visitors to see, hear about, touch, taste and smell new products. The first 500 attendees will also receive a free showbag.
At 7pm, the AACS Gala Awards Dinner (pre-booked tickets only) will commence after pre-dinner drinks from 6.30pm.
The second day of the Expo, Thursday August 18, begins with the C&I Retailers Breakfast at 8am (pre-booked tickets required), followed by free convention sessions from 10am until midday when the Expo re-opens. There will be four expert industry speakers at each function.
It is recommended that attendees pre-register for both free and ticketed events. For more information click here or register here.