Senior c-store leaders who are defining the channel's future will share insights on how to best position your business for success during the ECRM/retailmediaIQ Convenience Leadership Summit, which kicks off ECRM's Convenience Session Monday, February 2, 2026 in Destin, Fla. 

Attendees will learn how retailers are tackling the most pressing challenges and uncovering growth opportunities that are transforming today's convenience industry. Through high-impact panels, interactive roundtables, and peer-to-peer networking, they will gain the insights, connections, and strategies to stay ahead in an industry that never stands still. 

“The Summit's educational content will take a deep-dive into issues that are front-of-mind for convenience store retailers and suppliers,” said Sarah Davidson, EVP of ECRM. “For those buyers and brands participating in the Convenience Session, these learnings will surely enhance the quality of their face-to-face meetings in the days following the Summit.”

The Convenience Leadership Summit runs from 4 PM through 7:30 PM. ECRM's pre-scheduled meetings for buyers and brands will take place February 3 and 4. Following is the Summit educational lineup. 

4 PM to 4:40 PM: NielsenIQ Keynote
Explore the evolving landscape of convenience stores, where innovation and customer experience drive in-store success. During this session, we will explore the latest in-store trends and insights for CPG brands, highlighting how data-driven strategies can enhance product placement, optimize assortment, and elevate shopper engagement within the C-store environment.

Tailored for CPG professionals, you'll learn emerging consumer behaviors and how to leverage them to drive decision-making and maximize brand visibility in an ever-evolving convenience landscape. Join us to discover actionable insights that can empower your brand to thrive in the C-store channel.

Retailer Fireside Chats

4:40 PM to 5:10 PM: Derek Gaskins, BP
Derek Gaskins, BP's Head of Guest Experience, will discuss BP's mission to be customer-obsessed. BP is rapidly evolving convenience into a food destination by expanding freshly prepared meals and the Epic Goods private-brand program. Learn how this strategy, which integrates store design, loyalty, and personalization, creates immense new opportunities for food, beverage, and impulse suppliers to align with local customer needs.

5:20 PM to 5:50: Lee Wilburn, Casey's
During this session, Lee Wilburn, Senior Director of Casey's will discuss the retailer's strategies in merchandising, category innovation, supplier partnerships, and meeting shifting consumer expectations. Gain actionable insights into what it takes to win shelf space and grow in a competitive retail environment.

5:50 PM to 6:20 PM: Matt Bunevich, 7-Eleven

Matt Bunevich is  Manager, 7-Ventures & Business Development 

6:30 PM to 7:30 PM: Sip & Sample Social
Round out the day at our Sip & Sample Social — a relaxed cocktail reception where you can network, unwind, and experience the latest innovations from leading and emerging c-store brands.

For more information, or to register or sponsor, contact Sarah Davidson at sdavidson@ecrm.marketgate.com or visit the ECRM Convenience Session page.