7:00 AM

Breakfast

Attendees must be registered for the morning education sessions to receive breakfast.

Breakfast not provided for Trade Show Only Pass.

8:35 AM

KEYNOTE: Doug Stephens, Futurist, Founder and CEO, Retail Prophet

Redefining Convenience for the New Age of Retail 

In a world where practically anything we desire can be on our doorstep with a few taps on a smartphone, "convenience" has been forever redefined. For convenience operators this demands a corresponding shift in strategy. Strategy that moves beyond the table stakes of traditional convenience offerings to provide a deeper, more valued and purpose-driven experience for consumers. Join Retail Futurist and Fortune 100 business advisor Doug Stephens as he shares the secrets to building competitive dominance and radical customer loyalty.

9:20 AM

Beth Brickel 

Future Forward: C-store IQ National Shopper Study 2025

All NEW exclusive data and insights from the 2025 C-store IQ National Shopper Study, Canada’s only convenience and gas specific research that delves into the evolving wants, needs and values of your current and future customers, from Gen Z through Millennial, Gen X and Boomer. 
EnsembleIQ Vice-President, Research Beth Brickel surveyed more than 2,000 c-gas shoppers from across Canada and analyzed the data to find out how their daily habits are influencing the c–store shopping experience. What do today’s shoppers expect from retailers? What products are they purchasing? How do they feel about sustainability? What role does c-store foodservice play in their consumption habits? Are they satisfied with beverage alcohol offerings at convenience. And more!

9:50 AM

Sponsored Session

Navigating Nicotine Regulations: United for a Fair Future
Join Eric Gagnon, Vice President Corporate & Regulatory Affairs at Imperial Tobacco Canada, for an insightful discussion on the evolving landscape of nicotine regulations and their impact on convenience stores in Canada. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the latest regulatory changes, the challenges they pose, and how responsible retailers can advocate for fair treatment and defend their industry. As a responsible retailer, you have the power to make a significant impact by raising your voice and standing up for your industry. Together, we will explore effective strategies to advocate for fair treatment and protect your business. Let's make a difference.

10:20 AM

Fireside Chat 

Championing Canada’s Convenience Industry

$53 billion in sales. 188,000 jobs. 21,889 stores. Canada’s convenience industry plays an important role not only in the national economy, but also in communities from coast to coast to coast. Join Convenience Industry Council of Canada president and CEO Anne Kothawala in conversation with Convenience Store News Canada editor Michelle Warren, as they discuss navigating change and the big issues defining the channel 2025, from the advent of beverage alcohol and next steps for success; to contraband tobacco, credit card interchange fees, taxation, product diversification and more. 

10:40 AM

Emma Balment

Feeding the Future: Unlocking C&G's Foodservice Potential

Convenience and Gas is at a crossroads facing an opportunity to reevaluate their value proposition to consumers and their competitive set. With insights from Ipsos Canada, this session will explore C&G’s opportunity to invest in foodservice offerings and compete more directly with Quick-Service Restaurants.

11:00 AM

Gabriel Moreau

NIQ’S Big Picture and Beverage Alcohol

Six months after Ontario turned on the taps, enabling c-stores across the province to sell beer, wine, cider and RTD, NIQ looks at the numbers and how beverage alcohol is performing against other key categories. This data dive and insights will give stakeholders the knowledge they need to grow the category and their business.

11:30 AM

Beverage Alcohol Panel

Thirsty for Growth: Mastering beverage alcohol sales at convenience
Beverage Alcohol Panel

Convenience Store News Canada editor and associate publisher Michelle Warren sits down with beverage alcohol retail category experts to discuss and reflect on learnings, best practices and how this new category is shaping the channel.
Panelists: Thea Bourne is Retail Program Manager at BG Fuels; Marietta Cini, Vice President of Operations and Sales, Hasty Market; Emily Sparrow, Project Lead and Category Manager Alcohol - Ontario, Petro-Canada, a Suncor business; and Manish Thakker, co-owner, Vani’s Convenience in Brampton, Ont. 

Lunch with National Energy Equipment

Attendees must be registered for the morning sessions to receive lunch.

Lunch not provided for Trade Show Only Pass.

Media Innovation and Energy Technology at the Forecourt

Join Tiina McCombie, Micheal McKay and Ismael Alaoui as they explore the new dynamics of media innovation at the pump and its potential to drive revenue growth at the convenience store while strengthening customer loyalty. Explore how Electric Vehicles and sustainable energy technologies are redefining the future of the forecourt and c-stores.  

7:00AM

Breakfast

Attendees must be registered for the morning education sessions to receive breakfast.

Breakfast not provided for Trade Show Only Pass.

9:05 AM

KEYNOTE: Jack Armstrong, Broadcaster-Voice of the Raptors, Coach, Mentor

Leading with Passion: Lessons in Leadership, Teamwork, and Perseverance

In this energizing keynote, Jack Armstrong shares powerful insights on leadership, teamwork, and perseverance—drawing from his decades of experience as a coach, broadcaster, and mentor. Through compelling stories from the basketball court and beyond, Jack highlights the qualities that define great leaders, the importance of resilience in the face of adversity, and how teamwork fuels success. His engaging and humorous style will leave attendees inspired to lead with passion, embrace challenges, and build winning teams in both their professional and personal lives.

9:35 AM

AI & Technology Panel

Leadership in the Age of Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence is transforming the way businesses operate, innovate and compete. Dr. Janice Rudkowski, Assistant Professor, Ted Rogers School of Retail Management, will lead this enlightening discussion exploring how AI is reshaping and redefining business, with a focus on the convenience and gas channel. From a day-to-day perspective, panelists will discuss practical applications of AI that enhance operational efficiencies, customer engagement, and decision-making. On a broader scale, they'll delve into the implications of AI for leadership, workforce development, and long-term business growth.
Panelists: Myles Gooding, Partner, Global Consumer Markets Advisory Leader, PwC Canada; Leslie Gordon, Director of Proprietary Brands, Circle K; and Tali Remennik, Certified Professional Forecaster, Data Scientist, CEO, Granularity.

10:05 AM

Lisa Covens

Consumer Outlook: Economic Confidence and the Newcomer Opportunity

In an evolving retail landscape, understanding Canadian consumer sentiment is critical for success. In this exclusive session, Lisa Covens will dig into Leger data to provide a big-picture analysis of Canadians' economic confidence—how consumers are feeling about their financial future, spending behaviours, and key trends shaping convenience retail.
A special deep dive will focus on Canada’s newcomer population—a demographic that is reshaping retail preferences at every level and driving new opportunities for the channel. Learn what these consumers value most, how they shop, and how convenience stores can better serve their needs.
Designed for convenience store retailers, vendors, and C-suite executives, this session will deliver data-driven insights to help businesses adapt, compete, and grow in a changing marketplace.

10:40 AM

Sponsored Session

Winning with Women Shoppers

Women are the economic story of the century, driving 70-80% of consumer spending through buying power or influence. They are reshaping business and represent a growth opportunity for the convenience channel. Time-starved, they are looking for opportunities to satisfy their families and themselves, in fewer shopping stops. Join Colleen Cronin, Managing Director of Shopper Marketing Media, and Pat Pellegrini, CEO of Vividata, as they share the value of female shoppers and how convenience-gas operators and brands can widen their appeal–with the expansion of beverage alcohol and related categories–to win the hearts and wallets of this busy and influential demographic.

10:55 AM

Social Impact Panel

Leading by Example: Impacting the Bottom Line and Beyond

This inspiring panel shines a spotlight on the social impact contributions made by convenience retailers and vendors, celebrating the stories behind CSNC’s annual Impact Awards. Leila Fenc, executive director of the Petro-Canada CareMakers Foundation, will moderate this engaging discussion with senior leaders from across the industry, who will share actionable insights and best practices for aligning social impact initiatives with business performance. From uplifting local communities to championing sustainability, these leaders will reveal how prioritizing social impact not only strengthens the channel but also makes it a meaningful place to work. Attendees will leave empowered with ideas to elevate their own efforts and drive transformative change in their organizations.
Panelists: Kathy Murphy, VP of Public Affairs, Coke Canada Bottling; Catherine O’Brien, Senior Vice President, Corporate Affairs, Regulatory, Government Relations and Sustainability, Nestlé Canada; Rick Rabba, President, Rabba Fine Foods.

11:35 AM

Future Leaders in Convenience + Car Wash Awards

Join us in celebrating this year's winners!

Be there when the industry comes together to celebrate FLICC winners from across Canada. Winners will be called to the stage to receive their awards and be photographed.

Lunch with LocalCoin

Attendees must be registered for the morning sessions to receive lunch.

Lunch not provided for Trade Show Only Pass.

Crypto on the Rise: How Localcoin Bitcoin ATMs Can Work for Me?

In this session, James will explore the rise of Bitcoin ATM's in Canada and abroad, the future of the industry in 2025, and the opportunities Bitcoin ATMs can bring to your business. Discover how Bitcoin ATMs work, why demand is surging, and how integrating one into your retail store or franchise can help you stay ahead in the evolving digital economy.

Breakfast & Networking

Attendees must be registered for the morning sessions to receive this offer.

Welcome and Introductions

Karen Smith - CCA President

Ayaaz Jamal

Developing High-Performance Teams in the Car Wash Industry

In this engaging keynote, Ayaaz Jamal will focus on the critical role of people development in building a thriving car wash business. Key takeaways from this session include attracting and retaining top talent, and proven strategies to find, hire, and retain the right people in a competitive labor market.

• Leadership & Accountability: How to foster a culture of responsibility, engagement, and continuous improvement.
• Effective Training & Development Programs: Designing and implementing training systems that enhance skills and performance.
• Employee Motivation & Performance: How to keep teams inspired, productive, and aligned with company goals.
• Building a Sustainable Workforce: Future-proofing your business through strong leadership, clear career paths, and workplace innovation.

Jeremy Enns

From Run-Down Wash to Local Hotspot
The struggling cash-only wash was a dump when Jeremy bought it. In the two years since acquisition, he has transformed the site into a bustling local hotspot. Revenue has already doubled, but Jeremy is aiming even higher. In this energetic session, Jeremy will share the valuable lessons he learned during the course of his project and discuss the equipment, chemicals, and technology partners essential to his site's growing success.

Dan Kelly

Keynote: Advocating for Small Business: Driving Change and Empowering Success
During his talk, Dan will address key topics including the ongoing shortage of labour, recent tax changes, the political situation in Ottawa, and the vital role small businesses play in the economy.

Networking Break

Ask Me Anything Panel

An engaging one-hour Ask Me Anything (AMA) panel with car wash industry experts! 

This moderated session invites the audience to ask questions and gain valuable insights into industry trends, best practices, and the future of car washing. It's an excellent opportunity to hear directly from experts and have key questions answered.

Rob Raskell

How to get the most out of your soap supplier.

Car Wash Bus Tour

Join us on Wednesday, March 5, 2025 from 8:30 am to 12:00 noon as we take tours of three unique and innovative car washes in the Greater Toronto Area.

Location: Pick up and drop off at The International Centre, 6900 Airport Road, Mississauga, ON

Schedule:

Meet up: 8:00 a.m. - Hall 5, International Centre

Pick up: 8:30 a.m. - International Centre parking lot

Tour of 3 Car Washes: 8:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Carwash #1: Valet Car Wash (South Mississauga)
Carwash #2 & 3: TBA

Drop off at CARWACS: 12:00 noon - International Centre parking lot