Experience the dynamic insights of Jessica Williams, Founder & CEO of Food Forward Thinking LLC, as she unravels the intricate journey from innovation to execution in the foodservice trends of c-stores and QSRs. Jessica will share insights into identifying trends, fostering innovation, and successfully bringing culinary concepts to life. Don't miss this discussion that blends visionary thinking with actionable strategies for culinary success.

Dive headfirst into the exhilarating world of packaged beverages with the powerhouse expertise of Nik Modi, Managing Director at RBC Capital Markets. Brace yourself for a pulse-pounding session into the dynamic landscape of consumer trends and financial analytics that are reshaping the packaged beverage category. Gain valuable insights into market shifts, emerging patterns, and the intersection of consumer behavior and financial performance with the guidance of one of the industry's foremost authorities.

Join us for an exclusive session where Bonnie Herzog, Managing Director and Senior Consumer Analyst at Goldman Sachs, dives deep into the revelations from the latest Nicotine Nuggets survey. This session promises an insider's perspective on the evolving category landscape as Herzog unpacks key findings derived from extensive feedback collected from retailer and wholesaler contacts representing 60,000 locations nationwide. Gain unique insights into emerging trends, shifting consumer preferences, and the factors shaping the future of this dynamic market.

A well-run loyalty program should be so meaningful to your brand that you can track the percentage of gallons and merchandise dollars that are tied to loyalty and if you balanced just the right margin per segment to win the right frequency of both visits and basket size.  
 
Your brands loyalty program is a marketing engine that can become your lowest cost of advertisement given the ability to directly target, personalize, and steer larger wallet share to your business.  This marketing engine is more important today than ever, as the ability to target through other methods becomes thinner given evolving customer privacy standards and laws.  Your loyalty program is a relationship with your customers, and this session focuses on how brands use their loyalty program as a marketing machine to build customer relationships, solve the competing forces of the fuel court versus the convenience store, and ultimately steer wallet share.

Tennessee Whiskey is revered around the globe and the area surrounding Nashville has a rich history with this celebrated spirit. In Barrel to Bottle you discover how this beverage is distilled and have the opportunity to create your own blend of premium Bourbon or Whiskey. 

Your journey takes place at the Pennington Distilling Co. Established in 2011, this independent distillery produces small batch premium spirits in the heart of Nashville. Upon arrival you will be treated to an engaging look at the whiskey and bourbon making process. 

Following the tour, you will join a Master Distiller, along with a knowledgeable staff of blenders, for an in-depth tutorial that will educate your palate on the various complexities derived from different barrels. 

2:15pm: Check-in (Lobby Level)

2:45pm - 3:00pm: Bus departure to Pennington Distillery

3:00pm - 4:00pm: Pennington Distillery Tour and Tasting

4:00pm - 4:15pm: Return to JW Marriott

Your journey begins at the historic RCA Studio B. As one of the first purpose-built recording studios in Nashville, this iconic studio produced hundreds of hits for artists such as: Dolly Parton, Jim Reeves, Willie Nelson and Elvis Presley. It also helped establish Nashville as an international recording center. You will then get to explore the Country Music Hall of Fame, one of the largest museums dedicated to music in the world. With artifacts, photographs, recorded sound, and vintage video, the Hall of Fame reveals the origins, traditions, and honored architects of country music. For anyone who loves the melodies that earned Nashville the nickname Music City, this is the tour for you! 

1:45pm: Check-in (Lobby Level)

2:00pm: Bus departure

2:15pm - 3:45pm: Tour of Country Music Hall of Fame

3:45pm - 4:00pm: Transfer to Studio B

4:00pm - 4:45pm: Tour of Studio B

4:45pm - 5:00pm: Return Transfer to JW Marriott

Step into a world where culinary adventure ignites the senses, as you embark on a hands-on hot chicken dry rub making experience. The air is charged with the aromatic dance of spices, and your fingertips become artists, meticulously blending a symphony of flavors. With each measured scoop of cayenne, paprika, and secret spices, you craft a potion that promises to set taste buds ablaze. The room echoes with the sizzle of anticipation as your custom dry rub transforms a simple chicken into a masterpiece, ready to tantalize taste buds with its fiery charm. Get ready to elevate your spice game and unleash a flavor explosion that will leave your guests craving for more. This class will be held on-site at the JW Marriott Nashville.

2:00pm - 2:45pm: Check-in (Lobby Level)
3:00pm - 5:00pm: Class starts at JW Marriott Nashville

Embark on a musical journey from the JW Marriott, delving into Nashville's vibrant culture and rich history. On this tour, you'll get to see some of Nashville's most iconic venues such as the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum and the legendary Ryman Auditorium. We'll wander down Lower Broadway, where live music fills the air, and uncover Nashville's hidden gems. Bring your walking shoes because we may even stop at a convenience store or two!

1:45pm: Check-in (Lobby Level)
2:00pm: Depart JW for Walking Tour
4:45pm - 5:00pm: Return to JW Marriott