This exclusive annual event brings together influential C-store leaders to discuss and map the future of this dynamic channel. Each year emphasizes a specific theme that helps guide insights and conversations. The focus of the 2024 event, The Rise & Appeal of Ethnic Cuisines to Younger Generations, honed our thinking as we toured Chicago eateries, absorbed insights, and hosted a consumer panel.
A Hotspot of Trending Flavors and Concepts
Chicago provided a bustling backdrop for our most recent gathering.We started our food tour with The Goddess & Grocer, an elevated convenience store with multiple locations in Chicago featuring a globally inspired menu and local brands. A Q&A with the founder and CEO, Debbie Sharpe, revealed her take on the evolving tastes of younger generations, challenges and opportunities in the C-store space, and where she finds inspiration for her stores.
An Insightful, Engaging Presentation
Kelley Fechner, vice president of customer experience at Datassential, gave an enlightening presentation on future C-store consumers and the growing demand for ethnic foods. Highlights included:
- Authenticity: Is it actually important in the C-store space?
- Mashups: Something Familiar, Something New
- The Extremely Broad Palate of Gen Alpha
Lively Panel Discussion
Attendees took part in a revealing conversation with local C-store consumers ranging in age from 18–33, unlocking their preferences and perceptions of C-store offerings. It was a tremendous opportunity to hear real-time feedback and identify key barriers.
A Tasty Tour
Along with our visit to The Goddess & Grocer, we made our way to other trending food spots featuring global flavors, including:
In Their Own Words
We thoroughly enjoyed hosting the event, but the most important criteria is that attendees found their time with us valuable. Here are just a few quotes and reviews from this year’s participants.
“It was an excellent experience; I always find it extremely beneficial to explore deep into a certain topic and get to discuss it with other industry professionals.”
“I really enjoyed the presentations and information. It was a great group of people, and I had some good conversation and made great connections.”
“Thanks for hosting a great few days of learning and networking!”
Interested in Joining Us Next Year? Just drop us a line to let us know. We’ll be in touch to let you know about possible next steps
