As 2020 kicks off, the convenience industry is navigating fast-evolving economic, consumer, market and category dynamics that will define growth opportunities in the new decade. Join Technomic’s Donna Hood Crecca to explore what’s now and next for convenience operators.

Trends & Data: Navigate Change: How understanding new product innovation, and the emerging threat of further regulation, can help retailers plan for the future

As the FDA continues its focus on flavors, e-cigarettes and cigars, this presentation will offer more background on new FDA leadership and objectives, and how that tenure with the regulatory body will shape the future of this vital category. This discussion will cover how retailers can grapple with that uncertainty, all while properly merchandising the bevy of new product innovation about to hit the market.

The retail landscape is having unprecedented shifts with new and historical age restricted products coming to the market. JUUL Labs invites you to learn about the strength of these categories, the potential risks to prepare for, and the necessary evolutions to responsibly lead these changes together.

Behind the counter expert speaker will talk about the myriad new products; IQOS, ON, CBD vape and wraps, new leaf cigars, etc., and how to assess what should be added to the set, what can come out.

What better way to see the latest innovations in c-store design and merchandising than to visit the stores themselves? CRU’s Store Tours Program takes attendees along on a curated agenda of store visits to see what some of the area’s top operators are doing. Participants will view strategies in action within key categories and experience signature features of each location. The consumer and retail space is evolving rapidly, and you can’t afford to miss out on this competitive learning opportunity.

2:00pm - 2:15pm - Check-in

2:15pm - Bus departure

2:15pm - 5:30pm - Store Tours

5:30pm - Arrive at Sheraton New Orleans Hotel