Four Not-to-Miss 2016 NRA Show Sessions
CHICAGO — Convenience store operators looking to learn how to improve their foodservice programs at the 2016 National Restaurant Association (NRA) Show should certainly check out Foodservice @ Retail (FS@R), a first-time, all-day conference running concurrently on Monday, May 23.
FS@R is specifically designed to address the challenges retail operators face when the time comes to add or expand foodservice offerings to their existing operations. Panel discussions and educational sessions will focus on the foodservice at retail culture, labor and talent recruiting, the state of the foodservice at retail industry, the role of health and wellness, and marketing your foodservice at retail operation.
However, c-store attendees aren't limited to the FS@R Conference for learning opportunities. Each day of the NRA Show, taking place May 21-24, features hours of programming on a wide variety of topics. These four sessions in particular address areas of interest for the convenience channel:
Emerging Trends: How Fast Food Is Disrupting the Way America Eats
Sunday, May 22 | 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.
The quick-service restaurant segment is growing and evolving more than ever before as various chains challenge existing perceptions of fast food's quality and the associated level of service. Aaron Noveshen, consultant and founder of The Culinary Edge, will review trends likely to further push the fast food boundaries over the next few years.
Millennials, Gen Z and Beyond: How Fast-Casual Can Adapt
Monday, May 23 | 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.
This generation has high expectations for fast-casual programs, and brands are having to work hard to meet those needs quickly and cost effectively. Chris Newcomb, president and CEO of McAlister's Deli and Newk's Eatery, will help retailers know how to incorporate innovation, when to evolve a program and the effect of adapting to trends on daily operations.
Lessons From Loyalty Program Experts
Monday, May 23 | 1 p.m. – 2 p.m.
To keep loyalty programs useful and valuable for both customers and businesses, foodservice operators have to analyze every aspect of theirs. Michael Lynch, director of loyalty marketing and market research at Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises, will help attendees learn to rethink or refresh their loyalty program for powerful results.
Trend Watch 2016 and Beyond
Monday, May 23 | 3 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Economic, workforce, consumer, technology and food trends will all shape the future of foodservice. Findings from the National Restaurant Association's 2016 Restaurant Industry Forecast, What's Hot chef survey and research on global flavors will reveal a snapshot of the restaurant industry's trends, challenges and opportunities today and in the days to come.
Click here for more information or to register to attend the 2016 NRA Show.