What's Next for Convenience? - Episode 537

Frank Gleeson shares his insights on the future of foodservice, technology, and advocacy at NACS and within the convenience retail industry. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Frank Gleeson, NACS President & CEO Frank became president and CEO of the National Association of Convenience Stores (NACS) on January 1, 2026, succeeding Henry Armour. He is the fourth person to lead NACS in its 65-year history.

Industry expert Denton Cinquegrana adds context to turbulent times within the petroleum industry. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Denton Cinquegrana, Chief Oil Analyst, OPIS Denton has been with OPIS since 2001 and serves as the chief oil analyst, responsible for the day-to-day operations of OPIS' news and analysis division. In his role, he also provides big-picture views on topics from supply and demand trends to anticipating price moves in the futures, spot and retail markets in North America.

In a sea of sameness, cultivating an exceptional customer experience can turn your customers into loyal superfans. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Brittany Hodak, Customer Experience Expert Brittany is an award-winning author, entrepreneur and customer experience expert who helps businesses turn customers into superfans. When her debut book, Creating Superfans, was released, Forbes declared: "If you have customers, you need this book. Period."

Tucker Bryant shares how the creative mindset that drives poets can also unlock modern leadership. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Tucker Bryant: Poet & Innovation Keynote Speaker After years at Stanford and Google, Tucker Bryant uncovered a surprising truth: the skills that fuel world-class innovation aren't confined to the boardroom—they're also found in the mindset of a poet. Today, he is a nationally recognized poet and speaker, and he will be a keynote speaker at the 2026 NACS State of the Industry Summit.

We break down the industry specific issues President Trump addressed—and those he didn't—and what it all means for convenience retailers. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Doug Kantor, NACS General Counsel Doug has served as legal counsel for NACS for more than 20 years, originally as a partner with the law firms Collier Shannon Scott PLLC and Steptoe & Johnson LLP. He has been NACS in-house counsel since 2021. Doug also served as special counsel and deputy chief of staff in the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

The NACS Foundation launched a new campaign that reinforces the importance of convenience stores in the communities they serve. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Kevin O'Connell, Executive Director, NACS Foundation Kevin leads the NACS Foundation and collaborates with industry stakeholders to develop signature programs that align with NACS members' philanthropic priorities, which overall focus on serving first responders, fighting hunger and investing in future leaders.

A look at consumer survey data and industry trends that can create opportunities for convenience retailers. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard

NACS Research shares exclusive insights behind preliminary 2025 industry data and what's in store for the convenience channel in 2026. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard   About our Guest: Chris Rapanick, Managing Director, NACS Research Chris oversees the day-to-day operations of NACS Research, manages and directs departmental financial and operational performance and drives strategic development of NACS long-term research capabilities and offerings for the convenience industry.

Conexxus led a tour of exhibitors showcasing the emerging AI-driven and consumer-facing technologies coming to c-stores in the near future. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Ed Collupy, Innovation Facilitator, Conexxus Ed has extensive retail systems experience in the convenience store and grocery retail channels and is currently providing facilitated group leadership, along with strategic and operational advice to retailers, emerging businesses and technology companies. He has served the industry as Chairman of the Board of Advisors of Conexxus and was inducted into its Technology Hall of Fame in 2021. Ed can be reached at [email protected].

A look at the 2026 convenience store count, how it compares to previous years, regional variations and overall fueling trends. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard