Avanti Issue 3 2025

T H E

V O I C E

O F

7 - E L E V E N

F R A N C H I S E E S

2025 ISSUE 3

Rebuilding Momentum To Boost Sales & Profits Digging Ourselves Out Of This Retail Rut

Practical Steps To Lower Insurance Costs

Mastering The Moonlight

Digital Detox: Taking A Break From The Buzz

The 7-Eleven Supply Chain

Winning In A Competitive Landscape Insurance Audits Explained

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CONTENTS 15 Digging Ourselves Out Of This Retail Rut

11

San Diego FOA Swings For Kids’ Health

19

Mastering The Moonlight: Unlocking Profit & Potential On The 7-Eleven Night Shift

18

Golf, Giving, & Going Yellow

By Nick Bhullar, NCASEF Executive Vice Chair

33

SFMB FOA Golf & Trade Show

23

The 7-Eleven Supply Chain

50

Delaware Valley FOA Meeting

By Eric H. Karp, General Counsel to NCASEF

Steps To Lower Insurance Costs 27 Practical & Reduce Risk In Your Store

By Teeto Shirajee, NCASEF Vice Chair

29

Digital Detox: Taking A Break From The Buzz

35

Winning In A Competitive Landscape

39

Insurance Audits Explained

VIEW

By Sukhi Sandhu, NCASEF Chairman

By Raj Singh, NCASEF Treasurer

By John Wales, Program Manager, AON

DEPARTMENTS

By Michelle Niccoli, NCASEF Vice Chair

2025 AFFILIATE MEMBERS

Pages 40-44

Member News .................................. 10 Bits & Pieces .....................................45 Legislative Update .......................... 52 SEI News ...........................................54 FOA Events ....................................... 58

AD INDEX

THE VOICE OF 7-ELEVEN FRANCHISEES AVANTI is published by the National Coalition of Associations of 7-Eleven Franchisees for all independent franchisees, store managers and interested parties. National Coalition offices are located at 3645 Mitchell Road, Suite B, Ceres, CA 95307. For membership information, call 855-444-7711 or e-mail nationaloffice@ncasef.com. The views and opinions expressed in the articles and columns published in AVANTI Magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the National Coalition of Associations of 7-Eleven Franchisees, its officers or its Board of Directors.

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McLane.....................................26 2025 ISSUE 3 AVANTI 9

Member News 7-Eleven Reigns As America’s Largest C-Store Chain

CSP’s 2025 Top 202 list reaffirms 7-Eleven’s dominance as the largest convenience-store chain in the U.S., with an unmatched footprint of 12,600 locations.

The ranking—based on in-depth research and direct outreach to top retailers—positions 7-Eleven ahead of Alimentation Couche-Tard’s Circle K (7,107 stores) and Casey’s General Stores (2,890), maintaining its lead despite intensifying competition and aggressive expansion tactics across the sector.

As mid-sized and emerging players shake up the ranks, CSP highlights 7-Eleven’s role not just in scale but in shaping industry benchmarks amid ongoing store acquisitions and new builds. With the U.S. hosting over 152,000 c-stores, most operated by small chains, 7-Eleven’s prominence remains a key marker of brand recognition, distribution reach, and strategic agility in a rapidly evolving market.

Rounding out the top 10 on CSP’s 2025 list are a mix of fuel-aligned operators and regional powerhouses steadily expanding their footprints.

Murphy USA ranks fourth with 1,757 stores, followed closely by bp America (1,566) and EG America

NATIONAL COALITION OF ASSOCIATIONS OF 7-ELEVEN FRANCHISEES

(1,464), each leveraging fuel networks to grow convenience retail.

GPM Investments lands seventh with 1,389 locations, while ExtraMile Convenience Stores (1,123) and QuikTrip (1,117) sit just ahead of Wawa, which secures the tenth spot with 1,100 stores.

Couche-Tard Withdraws Bid For Seven & i

Canadian convenience store giant Alimentation Couche-Tard has officially pulled its $47 billion acquisition bid for Japan’s Seven & i Holdings, citing a lack of constructive engagement from the Tokyo-based parent of 7-Eleven, reported Reuters. Despite raising its offer from an initial $38.5 billion and agreeing to concessions such as partial ownership and regulatorymitigating store sales, Couche-Tard claimed that attempts to deepen negotiations were stifled by limited access to financial disclosures and tightly constrained meetings.

This marks the end of a year-long pursuit to form a global convenience store leader, following the collapse of a competing $58 billion whiteknight bid by Seven & i’s founding family. Couche-Tard’s final proposal included acquiring all non-Japanese continued on page 12

The National Coalition Office The strength of an independent trade association lies in its ability to promote, protect and advance the best interests of its members, something no single member or advisory group can achieve. The independent trade association can create a better understanding between its members and those with whom it deals. National Coalition offices are located in Ceres, California.

10

AVANTI 2025 ISSUE 3

NATIONAL OFFICERS & STAFF

Sukhi Sandhu

NATIONAL CHAIRMAN 855-444-7711 sukhi.sandhu@ncasef.com

Nick Bhullar

EXECUTIVE VICE CHAIR 626-255-8555 bhullar711@yahoo.com

Teeto Shirajee VICE CHAIR

954-242-8595

teeto.shirajee@yahoo.com

Michelle Niccoli

VICE CHAIR 719-661-1048 nicco711@yahoo.com

Khalid Asad

VICE CHAIR 913-488-3014 Khalid.asad@aol.com

Rajneesh Singh

TREASURER 214-208-6116 rjn_singh@yahoo.com

Shawn Howard

OFFICE & VENDOR RELATIONS MANAGER 855-444-7711 shawnh@ncasef.com

Eric H. Karp, Esq. GENERAL COUNSEL 617-512-9004 ekarp@wfrllp.com

John Riggio

MEETING/TRADE SHOW COORDINATOR 262-394-5518 johnr@jrplanners.com

John Santiago

MANAGING EDITOR 267-994-4144 avantimag@ncasef.com

April J. Key

GRAPHIC DESIGNER lirpayek@gmail.com

3645 Mitchell Road Suite B Ceres, CA 95307 855-444-7711 nationaloffice@ncasef.com

The Voice of 7-Eleven Franchisees 2025 ISSUE 3 ©2025 National Coalition of Associations of 7-Eleven Franchisees Avanti Magazine is the registered trademark of The National Coalition of Associations of 7-Eleven Franchisees.

San Diego FOA Swings For Kids’ Health The San Diego FOA hosted its 32nd Annual Charity Golf Tournament on June 11, 2025, at the beautiful Rancho Bernardo Inn, bringing together 144 golfers and numerous vendors to raise funds for Rady Children’s Hospital San Diego. Franchisees from several FOAs—including Greater Los Angeles, Southern California, Joe Saraceno, West Coast, Las Vegas, and Sacramento Valley—joined in the day of camaraderie and giving back. At the evening banquet, a check was proudly presented to Ashley Holmes (Dawson), Associate Director of Philanthropy at the Rady Children’s Hospital Foundation.

Participants enjoyed a lively day on the green, fueled by a delicious breakfast of Sabor burritos sponsored by Fairlife and a crowd-pleasing taco cart from Sabor Mexican Grill, courtesy of Anheuser-Busch. The festivities continued after the rounds with a banquet dinner and exciting raffle prizes, closing the event on a high note. With strong vendor support and enthusiastic participation from franchisees across the region, the tournament was another huge success in making a difference for local kids and their families.

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Member News

continued from page 10

assets and only 40 percent of Japanese operations, reflecting Japan’s unique dependence on convenience stores as emergency infrastructure. In a letter to its board, the company expressed frustration over “negligible” due diligence permitted under a non-disclosure agreement and noted having “no visibility” on further information from Seven & i leadership.

“Couche-Tard has officially pulled its $47 billion acquisition bid for Seven & i Holdings, citing a lack of constructive engagement from the company.”

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Beverages Lead C-Store Traffic

More than 80 percent of convenience store visitors are primarily drawn in by beverage purchases, outpacing snacks and fuel as the leading drivers of foot traffic, according to a new study

by Westrock Coffee Company highlights. The report reveals that habit heavily influences buying decisions—more than half of shoppers enter stores already knowing which drink they’ll purchase. The findings reflect growing consumer expectations for fast, reliable access to high-quality coffee, tea, and other beverages.

Flavor variety, product freshness, and convenience are top purchase motivators, positioning beverages

as both a core traffic driver and a strategic opportunity for retailers.

The report also explores how evolving preferences for customization and quality are shaping the future of c-store coffee offerings. Demand for made-toorder, premium options is rising, narrowing the gap between convenience stores and quickservice restaurants. Westrock Coffee suggests that offering elevated beverage experiences can foster repeat visits and brand loyalty.

Minimum Wage Hikes Across U.S.

Over 800,000 workers across the U.S. experienced minimum wage increases on July 1 as new

Member News rates took effect in 15 states, cities, and counties, reported Newsweek.

Alaska raised its minimum wage by $1.09 to $13.00 per hour, following a ballot measure, impacting 6.3 percent of its workforce. In Oregon, inflation adjustments pushed the wage to $15.05, affecting 9.4 percent of workers. Washington, D.C. also implemented an inflationlinked increase to $17.95. These three jurisdictions alone accounted for hundreds of millions in additional annual wages, with fulltime workers gaining between $420 and $925 more annually.

Meanwhile, 12 localities— including 10 in California—rolled out hikes ranging from 45 to 59 cents an hour. Emeryville stood out with one of the nation’s highest

local minimum wages, nearing $20 per hour. Other California cities like San Francisco and Berkeley reached $19.18, while Los Angeles and surrounding areas hovered just under $18. Outside the state, Chicago raised its wage to $16.60 and Montgomery County, Maryland, climbed to $17.65. The Economic Policy Institute noted that 58 percent of those benefiting were women, with Black and Hispanic workers seeing disproportionate gains—further fueling calls to lift the federal wage, which remained unchanged at $7.25 since 2009.

Tariffs Push Inflation To Five-Month High

U.S. inflation climbed to 2.7

percent in June—the highest since February—largely driven by President Trump’s sweeping import tariffs, which raised costs across furniture, clothing, groceries, and appliances, reported the Associated Press. Core inflation, excluding food and energy, rose 2.9 percent, signaling deeper economic effects beyond volatile categories. While the White House defended the policy, noting some price drops like automobiles, economists pointed to rising prices of imported goods, including orange juice and sporting equipment, as signs of “tariff inflation” taking hold. Businesses such as Walmart, Mitsubishi, and Nike have begun passing these costs to consumers, complicating the Federal Reserve’s interest rate continued on page 45

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Digging Ourselves Out Of This Retail Rut

BY SUKHI SANDHU NCASEF Chairman

Over the past year or so, one challenge has weighed on my mind more than anything else: flat sales and declining foot traffic in our stores. As franchisees, we’ve all felt it. Fewer people are walking through our doors, customers are watching their spending, and some of the excitement that used to fill our stores has faded.

in higher margins and gives customers a reason to choose 7‑Eleven over other options. We’ve also been discussing improvements to 7Now, as more customers turn to delivery apps instead of visiting in person.

Another idea we’ve been working on with vendors is stronger, more creative promotions. We know that customers respond to deals and discounts—but they need to be meaningful, not just a few cents off here and there. We’ve asked SEI and vendors to come up with promotions that grab attention and bring customers into the store. We’ve also talked about testing regional and seasonal promotions tailored to what people in your neighborhoods actually want, rather than just broad I want you to know that your national and local national programs. franchisee leaders see you, we hear you, and we are Our distributors play an essential role in this effort, working hard every day to find solutions. This is not too. By collaborating with distributors, we’re making a challenge we can ignore, and it’s not one we can sure stores have what customers want when they want solve overnight. But I truly believe that together— it, and we’re able to test new items more quickly. Their franchisees, SEI, vendors, support has been a big and distributors—we will find “But I truly believe that together—franchisees, part of our conversations a way to turn things around. about improving the SEI, vendors, and distributors—we will find a For months now, the customer experience NCASEF officers, Board of and driving more traffic, way to turn things around.”

Directors and I have brought and I’m confident they this issue to every meeting we’ve had with SEI. We’ve will continue to be an important part of the solution pushed hard to make sure the company understands moving forward. how serious this is and how much it impacts us at the We’ve even explored ways to improve the shopping store level. We’ve shared your stories, your numbers, experience itself. SEI has shared plans to upgrade the and your frustrations directly with senior leadership. technology in our stores to make transactions faster and And I can tell you that SEI knows this is a problem, to use data more effectively. They’re also looking at too. They see the same numbers we see, and they want how to improve store layouts and product placement to to help fix it. make the experience more appealing to customers.

One of the main areas we’ve been exploring is “While none of these ideas on their own have been a foodservice. During the last few Board meetings, SEI home run yet, they are steps in the right direction. And has presented new foodservice initiatives focused on drawing customers back into stores. We’ve talked the most important thing is that we are at the table, about expanding the fresh food menu, adding more speaking up, and making sure our voices are heard.” hot foods, and making our food options competitive While none of these ideas on their own have been a with quick‑serve restaurants and other c-store chains. home run yet, they are steps in the right direction. And This is a great opportunity because foodservice brings

“I want you to know that your national and local franchisee leaders see you, we hear you, and we are working hard every day to find solutions.”

continued on page 17

2025 ISSUE 3 AVANTI 15

E V I S U L EXC

Digging Ourselves Out Of This Retail Rut continued from page 15

“Your hard work, your pride in your business, and your commitment to excellence inspire me and the entire Board to keep fighting for you. Let’s stay strong, stay united, and keep moving forward.” the most important thing is that we are at the table, speaking up, and making sure our voices are heard. I know it’s frustrating to feel like progress is slow. I feel the same way. But I also know that these challenges didn’t appear overnight, and they won’t go away overnight either.

I want to take a moment to thank every franchisee who has shared their feedback, attended meetings, and contributed ideas. Every time you speak up, it helps us make a stronger case to SEI and vendors. It shows them that we care deeply about our businesses and our customers, and that we’re willing to work together to find solutions.

I also want to remind you that this is not just about waiting for SEI or vendors to solve the problem for us. As franchisees, we can take small steps in our own stores to help bring customers back. Whether it’s keeping your store spotless, being friendly and welcoming, or trying out a new display, these little things can make a big difference. Customers remember when they feel valued, and they’re more likely to come back when they have a good experience.

In the coming months, we will continue pushing SEI and vendors for better programs, smarter promotions, and stronger support for franchisees. We won’t stop until we find real, lasting solutions. I promise to keep you updated on every step we take and every idea we bring to the table.

Thank you for everything you do every day to keep your stores running and to serve your customers.

Your hard work, your pride in your business, and your commitment to excellence inspire me and the entire Board to keep fighting for you. Let’s stay strong, stay united, and keep moving forward.

Sukhi Sandhu • 855-444-7711 • sukhi.sandhu@ncasef.com

Join Your Local Franchise Owner’s Association Today!

The best way to stay informed of the latest changes and challenges to our 7-Eleven system-and the convenience industry, in general-is to join your local Franchise Owner’s Association. FOAs help franchisees share ideas and concerns, and allow us to approach our franchisor and vendor partners with a unified voice. Becoming an FOA member also makes you a member of the National Coalition, which consists of all 41 FOAs nationwide.

To join your local organization, contact the FOA president closest to you, or follow the instructions below to fill out an online membership form. If you cannot find the FOA closest to you, contact nationaloffice@ncasef. com for more information.

We welcome your participation!

“None of us is as great as all of us together”

How do I join an FOA? 1.

Log in to 7Help using 7Hub (secured) instore or using this link https:/7elevenna. service-now.com/from any external device.

2. In the search bar type “FOA.” 3. Select the popup suggestion “FOA/ PAC:FRANCHISE OWNERS ASSOCIATION.” 4. Type “NONE” in the “Current FOA” box if you are joining an FOA for the first time or you are not a member of any other FOA. 5. Type in the full name of the FOA that you wish to join (No abbreviation) in the “Future FOA” box.

6. Type in the amount of monthly dues as instructed per local FOA. 7.

Type “Please enroll (store number) as a member of (name of the local) FOA.”

8. Repeat Step 7.

9. Press the green submit icon.

2025 ISSUE 3 AVANTI 17

Golf, Giving, & Going Yellow NCASEF Chairman Sukhi Sandhu and Greater Oregon FOA President Naeem Khan, who also chairs the NCASEF Charity Golf Committee, recently attended the Play Yellow Experience at the Memorial Tournament presented by Workday in Dublin, Ohio.

The event brought together supporters of Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and the Play Yellow movement to enjoy world-class golf while connecting with fellow advocates, partners, and donors. Sukhi and Naeem had a fantastic time cheering on PGA players, meeting other dedicated supporters, and showing their commitment to improving children’s healthcare through the Play Yellow cause.

The Play Yellow Experience celebrated an incredible milestone this year, with the golf community raising $130 million for children’s hospitals since the program began in 2019. The Memorial Tournament honored Barbara Nicklaus for her and Jack Nicklaus’s tireless efforts to help kids, and Yellow Out Sunday turned the course into a sea of yellow in solidarity.

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Mastering The Moonlight:

Unlocking Profit &Potential On The 7-Eleven Night Shift The glow of the iconic 7-Eleven sign is a beacon in the night, a promise of convenience and comfort for countless Americans. Yet, for many franchisees, the hours between dusk and dawn can feel like a frontier—challenging, often overlooked, and brimming with untapped potential. While the day shift bustles with consistent traffic, the night shift, with its unique rhythm and demands, often holds the key to unlocking significant gains in profitability, operational efficiency, and customer satisfaction.

“While the day shift bustles with consistent traffic, the night shift often holds the key to unlocking significant gains in profitability, operational efficiency, and customer satisfaction.”

It’s no secret that the night shift has historically presented its own set of hurdles. From staffing complexities to inventory management and loss prevention, these hours can test even the most seasoned operator. However, recent developments and a renewed focus on these crucial periods are transforming the landscape, offering a clear path to turn perceived weaknesses into undeniable strengths.

The Night Shift: A Critical Investment, Not a Cost Center Let’s address a prevailing misconception: the night shift employee is often unfairly relegated to the “least trained” or “least critical” role. This mindset is a significant impediment to success. In reality, your night team are the custodians of your store during its most vulnerable hours. They are the frontline against theft, the guardians of fresh food integrity, and the crucial link in your supply chain. Investing in their training, empowerment, and recognition is not merely a cost; it’s a strategic investment in your bottom line.

Freshness After Dark: The Battle Against Expiration One of the most common challenges is ensuring the freshness of products in the fresh food case. With peak production often occurring during the day, night staff are tasked with managing the tail end of daily sales and preparing for the next morning rush. Expired product is not just a loss of revenue, it’s a blow to your brand reputation.

• Empower Your Night Team with Knowledge: Comprehensive training on product rotation (FIFO - First In, First Out), expiration date checks, and proper display

BY NICK BHULLAR

NCASEF Executive Vice Chair

techniques is paramount. Don’t assume they know; verify and reinforce.

• Leverage Technology: Utilize your POS system and inventory management tools to flag expiring items.

Consider implementing a clear visual system (e.g., colored tags) that quickly identifies products nearing their expiration.

• Communication is Key: Establish clear communication channels between day and night shifts regarding anticipated sales, leftover fresh food, and any special promotions that might impact inventory.

• Proactive Planning: Encourage your night team to perform a thorough fresh food check at the start of their shift and again before peak morning hours. This proactive approach can drastically reduce waste.

Cleanliness That Shines: A Welcoming Environment 24/7 A clean store, regardless of the hour, speaks volumes about your commitment to your customers. While day shifts focus on quick tidy-ups, the night shift often provides the opportune time for deeper cleaning and maintenance.

• Dedicated Cleaning Schedules: Implement a clear, detailed cleaning checklist specifically for the night shift.

This should include tasks like floor scrubbing, restroom sanitization, equipment cleaning (coffee machines, hot dog rollers), and dusting.

• Proper Equipment and Supplies: Ensure your night team has access to the necessary cleaning supplies and functioning equipment. A broken mop bucket or an empty spray bottle can quickly derail cleaning efforts.

• Regular Inspections: As a franchisee, conduct unannounced night visits to assess cleanliness and provide constructive feedback. This demonstrates your commitment and accountability.

“Unfortunately, the night shift can be a target for opportunistic theft.

Proactive measures and a welltrained staff are your best defenses.”

Discouraging Theft: Vigilance in the Moonlight Unfortunately, the night shift can be a target for opportunistic theft. Proactive measures and a well-trained staff are your best defenses. continued on page 21 2025 ISSUE 3 AVANTI 19

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Mastering The Moonlight: Unlocking Profit &Potential On The 7-Eleven Night Shift continued from page 19

• Enhanced Lighting: Ensure your parking lot and store interior are brightly lit, eliminating dark corners that can conceal nefarious activity.

• Visible Security Measures: Prominently display security cameras and signs indicating surveillance. This acts as a powerful deterrent.

• Staff Training on De-escalation and Observation: Train your night associates on how to observe suspicious behavior, make eye contact with every customer, and deescalate potentially volatile situations. Emphasize that their safety is paramount.

• Limit Cash on Hand: Implement regular cash drops to minimize the amount of money in the register.

• “Greet Every Customer”: Even at night, a friendly greeting can make a potential thief feel “seen” and less likely to act.

direct assault on your business’s reputation and profitability.

7-Eleven’s core promise is 24/7 convenience.

• Reinforce Policy Firmly: Clearly communicate and consistently enforce the policy regarding operating hours.

There should be zero tolerance for unauthorized closures.

• Address Root Causes: If an employee is closing the store, understand why. Is it a safety concern they feel unequipped to handle? Are they overwhelmed? Addressing the underlying issue is crucial to preventing recurrence.

• Provide Support and Resources: Ensure your night staff know who to contact in emergencies and have clear protocols for dealing with challenging situations.

Inventory Accuracy: Counting Every Penny After Hours One of the most significant advancements in recent times has been the improved process for night deliveries, particularly from key partners like the CDC. The days of drivers simply offloading product and leaving are (thankfully) fading.

• Embrace the New Delivery Protocol: Encourage your night staff to fully engage with the new system. The driver waiting while the sales associate scans the delivery and meticulously notes shortages is a monumental step forward.

This process directly impacts your profitability by accurately accounting for received goods and crediting shortages.

• Thorough Scanning and Counting: Emphasize the importance of scanning every item received and physically counting high-value or easily misplaced items.

• Photographing Deliveries: The practice of drivers taking pictures of their deliveries before leaving provides invaluable documentation in case of discrepancies. Educate your staff on the importance of this visual record.

• Clear Communication on Shortages: Establish a clear protocol for reporting and verifying shortages. This ensures that credits are received promptly and accurately.

• Regular Inventory Spot Checks: Beyond deliveries, encourage your night team to conduct small, targeted inventory spot checks throughout their shift. This helps identify discrepancies early and reinforces a culture of accuracy.

customers, especially during the often-

The Power of Consistency: Open for Business, Always The instances of stores closing at night at the discretion of the night employee are not just policy violations, they are a

“A well-stocked, clean, and welcoming store, staffed by trained and engaged employees, will naturally attract more quieter night hours.”

Seizing the Night: Increased Sales and Profitability By addressing these challenges head-on and proactively focusing on the night shift, franchisees can unlock significant opportunities: • Increased Sales: A well-stocked, clean, and welcoming store, staffed by trained and engaged employees, will naturally attract more customers, especially during the often-quieter night hours.

• Reduced Waste and Shrink: Improved inventory management, accurate deliveries, and effective loss prevention directly translate into reduced product waste and shrinkage, boosting your profit margins.

• Enhanced Customer Loyalty: A consistently positive experience, regardless of the time of day, builds customer loyalty and differentiates your store in a competitive market.

• Improved Employee Morale: When your night staff feel valued, trained, and supported, their morale will soar, leading to a more positive work environment and reduced turnover.

The night shift is not merely about keeping the lights on, it’s about illuminating new possibilities for your 7-Eleven franchise. By focusing on robust training, embracing new operational protocols, fostering a culture of accountability, and genuinely valuing your night team, you can transform these overlooked hours into a powerful engine for growth, ensuring your store continues to be a beacon of convenience and success, day and night. It’s time to wake up our night shift— and with it, our potential.

Nick Bhullar • 626-255-8555 • bhullar711@yahoo.com 2025 ISSUE 3 AVANTI 21

The 7-Eleven Supply Chain

The 7-Eleven Supply chain is both enormous and complex.

According to reports published by the parent company of 7-Eleven, Inc., average daily sales in the United States were $5,657 per day or $2,064,805 per year in 2024. At the end of that year, there were 12,960 locations in the system, which means that total sales were approximately $26.8 billion. System wide gross margin in 2024 was 33.2 percent, meaning that system wide cost of goods sold that year was 66.8 percent. That, in turn, means that the total purchases by all 7-Eleven stores in the United States was about $17.9 billion. Franchisees accounted for approximately 40 percent of those purchases or about $7.2 billion.

BY ERIC H. KARP

General Counsel to NCASEF

to a Recommended Vendor, but SEI retains sole discretion to determine whether a Bona Fide Supplier meets its requirements to become a Recommended Vendor.

“The franchisees are subject to relatively straightforward requirements found in section 15(g) in the franchise agreement.”

The franchisor is obligated to make a commercially reasonable effort to obtain the lowest cost for products and services on a Market Basket Basis identifying all available discounts allowances and other opportunities for price adjustments. It is universally known in franchising that vendors often offer franchisors inducements to become approved vendors in a franchise system.

This franchise agreement contains unusual provisions stating that if SEI decides to accept an allowance from a vendor, it must first ask the vendor to lower its price instead of providing the allowance to the franchisor. If the vendor refuses to lower the cost of the product, then SEI must follow the steps below: 1. If the vendor offers cooperative advertising allowances and refuses to lower the cost of its products and services in lieu of providing that allowance, then SEI may accept the cooperative advertising allowance.

This arithmetic exercise proves only that the supply 2. If there are other allowances available from the vendor chain is very large and capable of harnessing purchasing and it declines to lower the cost of its products and power to drive costs as low as possible. services in lieu of providing such allowance, then SEI But what does the franchise agreement say about the must request that the vendor provide such allowance as supply chain and the obligations of each of the parties on cooperative advertising. that subject?

3. If the vendor declines to provide the allowance as The franchisees are subject to relatively straightforward cooperative advertising, then SEI may accept and use the allowance as designated by the vendor. requirements found in section 15(g) in the franchise 4. SEI must request written confirmation from the vendor agreement. These include the obligation to buy products, that it will not lower the cost of its products and services goods and services only from Bona Fide Suppliers. In in lieu of providing any available allowances. addition, the franchisees must purchase 85 percent of their Under paragraph 15(k) and Exhibit J. the oversight of products from Recommended Vendors and separately these provisions is delegated 85 percent of their cigarettes “In addition, the franchisees must purchase 85 to the Franchisee Selection from Recommended Vendors. percent of their products from Recommended Vendors Committee, which has the There is a procedure set out power to retain an independent in the franchise agreement to and separately 85 percent of their cigarettes from third party to conduct a review convert a Bona Fide Supplier Recommended Vendors.”

“This arithmetic exercise proves only that the supply chain is very large and capable of harnessing purchasing power to drive costs as low as possible.”

continued on page 25

2025 ISSUE 3 AVANTI 23

Y

o

C i

The 7-Eleven Supply Chain continued from page 23

“Outside the highly confidential Franchisee Selection Committee process, there is no public available window into the payments or allowances that SEI may receive from vendors.” of SEI’s compliance with these provisions.

Outside the highly confidential Franchisee Selection Committee process, there is no public available window into the payments or allowances that SEI may receive

from vendors. They are not separately accounted for in the financial statements which accompany its Franchise Disclosure Documents or in the securities filings of its parent company. The Summary of Significant Accounting Policies which accompanied the 2024 Audited Financial Statements say that all such allowances are recorded as a reduction to merchandise cost of goods sold. The note explaining that policy is set out in the Appendix.

Because your franchise agreement is unusual in that it has many defined terms that are found in an exhibit to the franchise agreement rather than in the agreement itself, I’m including in the exhibit the definitions of the capitalized terms in this article.

I hope you find this article informative.

Appendix Audited Financial Statements of 7-Eleven, Inc. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (n) Allowances and Credits from Vendors – The Company receives various types of allowances and credits from vendors that primarily include cigarette and tobacco buy-downs, display allowances, and scanback and billback allowances. These allowances are recorded in the period in which they are earned as a reduction to merchandise cost of goods sold. Additionally, the Company receives vendor cooperative advertising allowances, which are offset against advertising expense in OSG&A as incurred. The Company also receives fuel branding and volume-based incentives related to our fuel supply contracts. Volume-based incentives are recognized in the period in which the underlying fuel sales occur, whereas unearned fuel branding incentives are deferred and amortized as earned over the term of the respective agreement. Both types of fuel incentives are reflected as a reduction to fuel cost of goods sold.

Selected Definitions from Exhibit E to Franchise Agreement “Bona Fide Suppliers” means persons or entities regularly conducting the business of supplying or distributing merchandise, supplies or services to retail businesses and performing all of the functions normally associated with such activities; provided that, unless you obtain our prior written consent, neither you, your Affiliate, nor any other 7-Eleven franchisee may be a Bona Fide Supplier.

“Market Basket Basis” means a vendor’s standard product mix that meets our Stores’ purchase needs (excluding Proprietary Products) and is sold under terms that include a balanced comparison of payment terms and methods, instore services, product mix, service area, frequency of delivery and delivery windows.

“Recommended Vendor(s)” are those Bona Fide Suppliers described in Paragraph 15(h) and which are listed on the 7-Eleven Intranet. The list of Recommended Vendors may be changed from time to time.

Eric H. Karp • 617-512-9004 • ekarp@wfrllp.com 2025 ISSUE 3 AVANTI 25

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Practical Steps

To Lower Insurance Costs & Reduce Risk In Your Store For 7-Eleven franchisees, general liability insurance is a necessary part of doing business—but that doesn’t mean we have to be stuck paying sky-high premiums. By taking

“By taking a proactive approach to managing risk, we can significantly reduce costs while also creating a safer environment for our customers and employees.” a proactive approach to managing risk, we can significantly reduce costs while also creating a safer environment for our customers and employees. Whether you’re operating a highvolume urban store or a quieter suburban location, there are concrete steps you can take to better control your insurance expenses without sacrificing coverage.

Start by conducting a thorough risk assessment of your store. Identify any common hazards—like uneven flooring, poor lighting, or high-theft areas—and address them through regular maintenance and safety checks. Implementing a strong safety and loss control program, including employee training on proper cash handling, de-escalation techniques, and slip-and-fall prevention, can go a long way toward reducing incidents. Surveillance cameras and alarm systems not only deter crime, but they also demonstrate to insurers that you’re serious about protecting your business.

Another way to control premiums is to take a close look at your claims history. Identify any patterns in past incidents and take corrective action to prevent them from recurring.

Keeping detailed records of all incidents and claims makes it easier to work with your insurance provider and helps build a track record of responsibility. Consider increasing your deductible if it makes sense financially—this often results in lower premiums, but be sure your store can afford the out-ofpocket cost if a claim arises.

You should also think about bundling policies—such as general liability, workers’ comp, and property coverage— under a single provider. This can often lead to discounts and streamline communication. Additionally, don’t just set it and forget it—review your policy limits periodically to ensure they align with your store’s actual exposure. Over-insuring can mean you’re paying for coverage you don’t need, while

BY TEETO SHIRAJEE NCASEF Vice Chair

under-insuring could leave you vulnerable.

Even if you’re using captive insurance, it’s wise to shop around from time to time or request quotes from outside insurers. Doing so gives you leverage in negotiations and helps validate your current rates. Engage with your captive insurance managers regularly—they can offer guidance on ways to improve your safety protocols and ultimately drive down costs. Tools like data analytics can also be incredibly useful. Use them to track incidents, claims, and safety trends over time so you can make more informed decisions about your store operations.

Don’t overlook the importance of legal compliance.

Make sure your store meets all local, state, and federal regulations—being out of compliance not only increases your risk but can also drive up insurance costs. Clean, wellmaintained stores with documented safety practices are simply less expensive to insure. Encourage customers to share feedback about safety and service issues so you can catch problems before they escalate into costly claims.

“Smart risk management helps improve store operations, protect your bottom line, and support long-term success.”

Further, consider whether an umbrella policy makes sense for your store. These policies provide additional protection beyond your general liability limits and are often surprisingly affordable. As the convenience store industry evolves, keep an eye on emerging liability trends—what worked five years ago might not be enough today. Reevaluate your insurance strategy regularly, and work closely with your insurance advisor to tailor your coverage to your store’s specific needs.

Smart risk management helps improve store operations, protect your bottom line, and support long-term success.

Taking the time to assess your coverage, invest in prevention, and work closely with your insurance advisor can lead to real savings and fewer disruptions. With the right strategies in place, you’ll be better equipped to handle challenges and keep your store running smoothly.

Teeto Shirajee • 954-242-8595 • teeto.shirajee@yahoo.com 2025 ISSUE 3 AVANTI 27

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Digital Detox:

Taking A Break From The Buzz

BY MICHELLE NICCOLI NCASEF Vice Chair

Running a 7-Eleven store means being connected almost 24/7—responding to employee texts, managing online inventory, reading emails, engaging on social media, and staying on top of news. I’ve been there: checking messages late into the night, scrolling through emails first thing in the morning, and feeling like I can never truly clock out. But how is this constant connectivity affecting our mental health, and what can we do about it?

isolating. I’ve spent hours engaging online, only to realize I was missing real-life moments with family, friends, or even customers. Face-to-face interactions—whether with employees, vendors, or loved ones—create the kind of connection screens can’t replicate.

The Benefits of a Digital Detox The good news is that stepping away from technology, even just a little, can lead to major mental health benefits.

It might sound difficult at first, especially when you’re running a store, but taking small breaks from screens can make you feel more grounded and focused.

• Better Sleep: Creating boundaries around screen time— The idea of a digital detox has been gaining traction for a like turning off your phone an hour before bed—can help reason. It is not just about taking a break from your phone—it reset your body’s natural rhythms. I started sleeping better is about reclaiming control over your well-being. In this article, and waking up more refreshed once I gave myself space to I’ll discuss how tech overload can impact our mental well-being and share a few tips on how to step back, reset, and recharge— unwind without devices. especially important when you’re running a busy store.

• Reduced Anxiety: Letting go of the need to constantly check messages gave me some much“As franchisees, we’re expected to be reachable at all needed breathing room. My The Mental Health Toll of Constant Connectivity anxiety started to ease, and I times, and over time, that takes a toll.”

Technology helps us stay found myself focusing more organized, track store performance, and communicate quickly— clearly on what really matters, without the pressure of staying but too much of it can leave us drained and distracted. As up to date on everything.

• Deeper Connections: Reducing screen time has helped me franchisees, we’re expected to be reachable at all times, and over time, that takes a toll. be more present. Whether I’m having a conversation with an • Stress and Anxiety: The pressure to always be “on” can employee or friend or family member, I’ve learned to put the seriously spike stress levels. I used to feel like I had to reply phone away and engage more meaningfully. That simple shift instantly to every message and email, even if it was not has strengthened my relationships and helped me feel more urgent. That expectation creates tension. Research shows connected in real life. constant tech engagement keeps our brains in a “fight or flight” mode, leading to heightened anxiety.

How to Disconnect Effectively: • Sleep Disruption: How many of us fall asleep while checking 4 Steps to a Successful Digital Detox emails, social media, or scrolling through reports on our If you’re ready to take a break from the constant buzz of phones? The blue light from screens interferes with melatonin notifications, here are a few strategies that have helped me (and many others) disconnect without missing a beat at work. production, making restful sleep harder to achieve. Poor sleep makes you groggy and affects your mood, decision-making, 1. Set Boundaries: Try not to check emails or messages the and patience when dealing with staff or customers. moment you wake up. Set tech-use hours for your day and • Disconnection Despite Being “Connected”: Even though stick to them. Use “Do Not Disturb” mode during your we’re constantly communicating through screens, it can feel downtime, and let your team know when you’re off the clock.

“The idea of a digital detox has been gaining traction for a reason. It is not just about taking a break from your phone—it is about reclaiming control over your well-being.”

continued on page 33

2025 ISSUE 3 AVANTI 29

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Digital Detox: Taking A Break From The Buzz continued from page 29

2. Create Tech-Free Zones: Designate certain spaces as nodevice zones—like your bedroom or dining room. These areas can become a refuge from store-related stress, helping you mentally separate work from rest.

3. Plan Offline Activities: Whether it’s taking a walk, enjoying a hobby, or even just drinking your morning coffee without a screen, carve out time for simple, tech-free moments. You’ll be surprised how refreshed you feel.

4. Engage in Real-World Conversations: Make time for in-person connections, whether that’s chatting with your employees without distractions or catching up with a friend over lunch. Phone-free interactions build stronger bonds—and help you feel more grounded.

Reclaiming Your Mental Health Technology is a powerful tool, but only if we use it wisely. If

you’re feeling overwhelmed or burned out, a digital detox might be the reset you need. Even a few small changes can reduce stress, improve sleep, and help you reconnect with what truly matters.

So if the nonstop pace of store life has you feeling like you’re always “on,” give yourself permission to disconnect. You’ll come back more focused, more balanced, and better equipped to lead your store and your life.

Michelle Niccoli • 719-661-1048 • nicco711@yahoo.com

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SFMB FOA Franchisees Unite for Golf, Deals, & Community Support

The San Francisco/Monterey Bay FOA hosted its Charity Golf Tournament on June 17, 2025, at the scenic Cinnabar Golf Course in San Jose, California.

Franchisees and vendors came together for a fun and meaningful day on the green, strengthening relationships and supporting the FOA’s ongoing efforts to build a stronger community.

The following day, the FOA held its Annual Trade Show at the Paradise Ballrooms in Fremont, highlighted by a

ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by Fremont Mayor Dr. Raj Salwan. In his remarks, the mayor praised small businesses as the backbone of the economy and applauded the spirit of collaboration at the event.

NCASEF Chairman Sukhi Sandhu, Executive Vice Chair Nick Bhullar, and leaders from Southern and Northern California FOAs joined franchisees and vendors to celebrate teamwork and place orders on excellent deals.

continued on page 35

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Winning

In A Competitive Landscape

BY RAJ SINGH NCASEF Treasurer

competition is another crucial component. Start with a To succeed in a competitive retail environment, every thorough competitor analysis. Look into their strengths 7-Eleven franchisee must understand their market, offer a and weaknesses, who they serve, and how they market unique value proposition, and prioritize customer service.

Success isn’t about doing one thing right—it’s about doing their business. Keep an eye on customer behavior, industry many things consistently well. That trends, and emerging technologies. These “Success isn’t includes analyzing your competitors, insights will help you stay ahead. about doing one focusing on customer needs, and Conduct a SWOT analysis—evaluate continually innovating to build a distinct thing right—it’s about your own Strengths, Weaknesses, brand identity and loyal customer base.

Opportunities, and Threats. This can doing many things help you identify where you stand in the One of the most important steps to consistently well.” market and what you need to work on. long-term success is building a strong infrastructure. Just like a building, if your foundation is Offering a unique value proposition is essential. Use solid, you can expand and grow with confidence. When your 7-Eleven’s fully funded promotions and the 7Rewards loyalty infrastructure is strong, you can own and manage as many program to differentiate yourself from the competition. Go businesses as you’re capable of handling. It all starts with beyond just selling basic products. Add value with bundled hiring the right people. Train and coach your team, empower deals, limited-time offers, or exclusive products that make them to perform at their best, and create an environment your store the preferred destination. where success is shared.

Customer service is the heart of long-term success. Make every customer interaction count. Deliver exceptional “When your infrastructure service to build loyalty. Personalized service, streamlined is strong, you can own and transactions, and friendly support can make the difference between a one-time customer and a regular. Ensure that any manage as many businesses as issues are resolved quickly and efficiently—a happy customer you’re capable of handling.” is a returning customer.

Next, make sure you’re executing the basics. This means maintaining a clean store, keeping shelves well-stocked, presenting products attractively, offering high-quality food and beverages, and providing excellent customer service.

These elements are fundamental and non-negotiable if you want customers to return.

We also need to make full use of the powerful tools and systems available to us. 7-Eleven provides one of the best Innovation and adaptability will also keep your business retail systems in the industry, but it’s up to franchisees to take competitive. Don’t be afraid to experiment with new ideas advantage of it. Don’t leave any opportunity on the table. and products. Use the Weekly Merchandising Cycle to bring Key tools include: fresh items into your store. Monitor their performance and • 7-BOSS: Use it to manage your ordering and assortment rotate as needed. Expand high-potential categories like effectively. Remember the formula: F+M-I=O. modern nicotine products and energy drinks to capitalize • Cycle Counts: Regular cycle counts ensure inventory on fast-growing segments. Stay flexible, listen to customer accuracy, help detect theft, and prevent out-of-stocks. feedback, and adjust your strategies accordingly.

• Shelf Sequences and Schematic Sales Reports: These Strong branding also plays a key role. Take advantage of tools help you understand how your merchandising platforms like 7NOW and 7-Eleven private brands to build decisions impact sales, so you can make smart a unique identity for your store. Cultivate a strong online adjustments. reputation by encouraging positive reviews and engaging with Understanding your market and knowing your your community online.

“Customer service is the heart of long-term success.

Make every customer interaction count.”

continued on page 37

2025 ISSUE 3 AVANTI 35

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Winning In A Competitive Landscape continued from page 35

In addition to all of the above, monitoring your store’s performance through regular report reviews is critical. The 7-Report system offers a variety of daily, weekly, and monthly reports that provide insights into your business operations, inventory, and financials. Franchisees should make it a habit to review these reports to identify areas for improvement.

Daily Reports • DMR (Daily Merchandise Report): Shows daily purchases, beginning and ending inventory level of DMR date, audit adjustments, past invoices, price overrides, markups and markdowns, write-offs, Daily Inventory Sales, and very importantly—MTD GP% of purchase during the month.

• POR (Price Override and Markup/Markdown Report): Summarizes price overrides, markups/ markdowns, Retail Adjustment and Retail Adjustment Amounts associated with the Sales Transactions of items within a business day. Please note that the POR report is a summary of Inventoried Item Transactions ONLY. • NIS (Non-Inventoried Sales): Tracks sales of proprietary beverages, SBT, and commission items.

• PSR (Promo Sales Report): Breaks down the performance of store-level promotions and discounts.

• APD (Accounts Payable Report): Details maintenance charges, Draw Portal withdrawals, and other businessrelated expenses paid on your behalf by SEI. • ERI (Extended Retail Invoice): Shows invoice pricing and how retail prices were calculated (SRP, CRP, FCTR).

• Provides Daily Invoices Detail information on the purchases that are reported on the DMR for DSD, and how their retail was calculated—i.e. Suggested Retail Price (SRP), Custom Retail Price (CRP), and Factored (FCTR).

• WDR (Wholesaler Detail Report): This daily report provides very vital and useful information on your purchases and needs to be reviewed to ensure the accuracy of your invoice. (Invoice Unit Cost and Retail, Selling Unit Retail Price, Invoice Quantity, Extended Cost and Retail.)

Weekly Report • IMR (Inventory Management Report): Helps identify irregular ordering patterns and trends.

Monthly Reports • AP9 (Accounts Payable Summary): Summarizes

maintenance charges and other miscellaneous amounts paid by SEI on your behalf.

• 11A (Detailed General Ledger): Breaks down every charge listed on your 48A and shows your store’s net activity for the month, as well as the beginning balance of all the charges, including your purchases during the month.

• 48A (Franchise Financial Summary): Includes your profit or loss statement, open account balances, and minimum net worth status.

The above reports are very basic, but they allow you to understand your business and finances.

Additional reports that franchisees should review: Daily Report • RA1D (Daily bank Activity): Tracks daily bank deposits and withdrawals.

Monthly Reports • BRS: Final Billback/Scanback Report that verifies the accuracy of scanback amounts listed on the 48A. • CCE: Credit Card Fees Expense Report that helps validate the credit card fee charges on the 48A. • MAP (Product Margin Report): Provides valuable information and includes both current period and yearto-date comparisons (PSA Category, Cost, Retail, % to the Retail, % to the Purchase Margin and % Purchase Margin Contribution, Ending Inventory, Non-Inventoried Sales, Inventoried Sales, Inventory Turn, Gasoline Sales, Transaction Count, Average Daily Transaction Count, Average Sales).

“With the right foundation, a sharp eye on the numbers and a passion for great service, long-term success is within reach for every 7-Eleven franchisee.”

Understanding your reports is essential to running a healthy business. They show you where you’re excelling, where you’re leaking profit, and where there’s opportunity. Don’t overlook them—they’re some of your most valuable tools.

By implementing these strategies and using the tools available, you can increase your chances of winning in a highly competitive market. It takes commitment, discipline, and a willingness to evolve. But with the right foundation, a sharp eye on the numbers and a passion for great service, long-term success is within reach for every 7-Eleven franchisee.

Raj Singh • 214-208-6116 • rjn_singh@yahoo.com 2025 ISSUE 3 AVANTI 37

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Program Manager AON

Insurance audits don’t need to be stressful—just accurate. Let’s break it down.

“Insurance audits don’t need to be stressful—just accurate.”

What Is An Insurance Audit?

An insurance audit is a review conducted by your insurance carrier to confirm the accuracy of the information used to calculate your premium.

Because most business insurance policies—especially workers’ compensation—are based on initial estimates, audits help reconcile those estimates with your actual business activity over the policy term.

Key Factors That Affect Your Premium • Nature of your business • Business location • Number of employees • Total payroll • Loss history • Whether officers are included in coverage (varies by state for workers’ compensation) Changes in these variables can mean additional charges—or refunds.

A Real-World Example Let’s say you start your workers’ compensation policy with an estimated payroll of $100,000. Your premium is calculated accordingly.

By year-end, however, your actual payroll is $150,000.

That means the insurer will charge an additional premium to reflect your higher risk exposure.

If your payroll had been lower than estimated, you would typically receive a credit.

Tips For A Smooth Audit DO • Review payroll regularly

Vendor Guest Article

group 2023 2024

Insurance Audits Explained

“To ensure a smooth insurance audit, review your payroll regularly, update your insurer mid-year, maintain clean records, and don’t miss mid-policy reviews.”

• Update your insurer mid-year • Maintain clean records • Stay in contact with your provider DON’T • Wait until year-end to report changes • Assume estimates remain accurate • Ignore classification changes • Miss mid-policy reviews Why This Matters Keeping your estimates up to date helps you: • Avoid surprise premium bills • Ensure you’re not over- or under-insured • Make budgeting more predictable • Simplify annual renewals

“I encourage clients to check in with their insurance provider twice a year. It helps keep policies aligned with business realities.”

I encourage clients to check in with their insurance provider twice a year. It helps keep policies aligned with business realities.

Questions? Ideas? Let’s Talk.

If there’s an insurance topic you would like covered— or you would like to schedule a Q&A session with your FOA—reach out anytime. You may contact me at John.

Wales@aon.com.

2025 ISSUE 3 AVANTI 39

2025

AFFILIATE MEMBERS

Grow Your Influence With 7-Eleven Franchisees Vendors looking to build stronger ties with 7-Eleven franchisees are invited to become Affiliate Members of the National Coalition of Associations of 7-Eleven Franchisees (NCASEF). This program is designed for companies that want more than just visibility— it’s a direct path to forging lasting partnerships and increasing your footprint within the 7-Eleven franchise network.

As an Affiliate Member, you’ll be part of three exclusive meetings each year—hosted in the late winter, spring, and fall—that bring together NCASEF’s national Board consisting of leaders from 38 Franchise Owners Associations (FOAs) representing over 7,300 stores. These gatherings feature expert presentations, targeted discussions, and social events that create powerful, face-to-face

networking opportunities. You’ll also receive up-todate contact lists for NCASEF’s executive officers and FOA leadership, putting you in touch with the decision-makers who matter most.

Affiliate Members enjoy valuable benefits, including complimentary directory listings in Avanti Magazine, sponsorship and speaking opportunities at Board meetings, and the chance to present your products and services directly to franchisee leadership. Whether you’re launching a new product or deepening existing relationships, the NCASEF Affiliate Member Program is your gateway to greater engagement and stronger results. Ready to get started? Visit www.NCASEF.com to join today and take your vendor-franchisee relationships to the next level.

2025 AFFILIATE MEMBER DIRECTORY

Call or email the representatives below if you have questions or want to speak to a representative from their company.

1440 Foods Julie Crow

500 7th Avenue New York NY 70018 303-921-4580 julie.crow@1440foods.com

2 Towns Ciderhouse Amity Worden

33930 SE Eastgate Cir. Suite E Corvallis OR 97333 503-298-3306 a.worden@2townsciderhouse.com

Aaron Choate Consulting, LLC Aaron Choate

403 Wellington Court Southlake TX 76092 817-404-7600 aaronchoate@proton.me

Accel Entertainment Peyton Shaughnessy

Acrisure/Barbot Insurance John Barbot

9001 Grossmont Blvd #711 La Mesa CA 91941 619-337-0290 619-609-1882 619-337-2703 JCBarbot@Acrisure.com

Advantage Solutions Matthew Ledoux

15310 Barranca Parkway, Suite 100 Irvine CA 92618 707-302-9404 matthew.ledoux@youradv.com

Altria Group Distribution Ryan Woods

6601 W Broad St Richmond VA 23230 559-213-1867 ryan.a.woods@altria.com

140 Tower Drive Burr Ridge IL 60527 815-999-7847

Anheuser-Busch

peytons@accelentertainment.com

225 E. John Carpenter Fwy Irving TX 75062 908-930-9674

Acosta

Jeremy Bennett

926 Vista Lane Desoto TX 75115 972-515-0805 jdbennett@acosta.com 40

AVANTI 2025 ISSUE 3

John Crerand

john.crerand@anheuser- busch.com

Aon Risk Services

Bazooka Candy Brands

5005 LBJ Freeway, Suite 1400 Dallas TX 75244 847-629-4711 760-221-8656 john.wales@coverwallet.com

10746 E. Palladium Drive Mesa AZ 85212 570-335-1744 scrusa@bazooka-inc.com

John Wales

AriZona Beverages TJ Del Duca

60 Crossways Park Drive West, Ste 400 Woodbury NY 11797 908-309-4645 TDelduca@drinkarizona.com

Awake Chocolate

Meredith Blackburn

2795 Peachtree Road Northeast Atlanta GA 30305 404-680-1740 meredith.blackburn@ awakechocolate.com

Bad Mermaid Dan Dixon

943 White Cloud Drive Morgan Hill CA 95037 408-427-2043 dan@badmermaid.com

Shauna Crusa

BBI Team Lori Davis

5851 Johnson Street Hollywood FL 33021 337-326-1114 ldavis@bbiteam.com

BeatBox Beverages Craig Ritcheson

1023 Springdale Rd #14 Austin TX 78721 805-823-5959 craig@beatboxbeverages.com

BIC USA

Ryan Gallimore

One Bic Way, Suite 1 Shelton CT 06484 Ryan.Gallimore@bicworld.com

Big Ideas Marketing Marc Segal

2235 Sisson St Baltimore MD 21211 410-654-8786 443-277-0223 410-654-8792 marc@bigideasmarketing.com

Bimbo Bakeries

Campbell Snacks

Coca-Cola Consolidated

11407 N. Weidner Rd San Antonio TX 78233 210-452-6258

1617 Funny Cide Drive Waxhaw NC 28173 704-748-3530

4100 Coca-Cola Plaza Charlotte NC 28211 757-651-8129 katy.mccarthy@ cokeconsolidated.com

Ryan Barrios

Sabrina Crum

Ryan.Barrios@grupobimbo.com

sabrina_crum@campbells.com

Body Armor Sports Nutrition

Campbell Soup Company

1611 Hennington Terrace Henrico VA 23228 804-573-8084

1 Campbell Place Camden NJ 08103 720-869-4834 mike_ventimiglia@campbells. com

Bryce Yancey

byancey@drinkbodyarmor.com

Bon Appetit Mike Kawas

4820 E 50th Street Vernon CA 90058 913-708-5526 m.kawas@bonappetitbakery.com

Bridgford Foods Richard Mueller

1415 W 44th Street Chicago IL 60609 312-733-0300 312-520-8311 rmueller@bridgford.com

Bug Juice International Greg Meyerott

9836 Richmond Calvry Dr St Louis MO 63123 314-660-4907 gregm@bugjuice.com

CAB Ent. - Electrolit Kaitlin Pierce

2700 Post Oak Blvd. Floor 21 Houston TX 77056 817-333-4196 kaitlinopierce@outlook.com

Calico Brands Aristeo Acosta

2055 S. Haven Avenue Ontario CA 91761 909-930-5000 909-214-1961 aacosta@calicobrands.com

Mike Ventimiglia

Caravella

Tim Turner

600 N. Brand Blvd., Suite 530 Glendale CA 91203 turneradultbeverageconsulting@gmail

Celsius

Samantha Shea

2424 N. Federal Hwy. Suite 208 Boca Raton FL 33431 954-621-8739 sshea@celsius.com

Chobani

Aaron Steinbach

669 County Road 25 New Berlin NY 13411 402-250-9985 aaron.steinbach@chobani.com

CIB Security Peter Chen

1190 Miraloma Way Sunnyvale CA 94085 408-219-7382 sales@cibsecurity.com

Coca-Cola

Myrna Hawkins

5800 Granite Pkwy, Suite #900 Plano TX 75024 214-244-9485 mbarronhawkins@coca-cola.com

Katy McCarthy

Congo Brands Dan Zacka

7003 Brunswick Circle Boynton Beach FL 33472 561-351-7171 dzacka@congobrands.com

CROSSMARK Convenience Cheryl Tucker

1921 E State Hwy 121 Lewisville TX 75056 469-814-1508 972-803-9630 cheryl.tucker@crossmark.com

2025

AFFILIATE MEMBERS Ecolab

Jennifer Green

2750 Blue Water Road, Ste 225 Eagan MN 55121 612-366-6836 jennifer.greene@ecolab.com

Energizer

Robert Elkes

8235 Forsyth Blvd, Suite 100 Clayton MO 63105 630-803-8358 robert.elkes@energizer.com

Fairlife

Jason Tomlinson

Danone North America

1001 W. Adams Street Chicago IL 60607 740-403-0885 jasont@fairlife.com

12002 Airport Way Broomfield CO 80021 303-550-7815 rachel.federico@danone.com

Ferrara Candy

Rachel Federico

Delicato Family Wines Christie Roberts

12001 South Highway 99 Manteca CA 95336 832-532-7541 281-546-0170 christie.roberts@delicato.com

Diageo Beer Company Brittany Palmer

4034 Rawlins St. #202 Dallas TX 75219 714-414-2527 972-922-3882 brittany.palmer@diageo.com

Dippin Dots

Matthew Stark

5101 Charter Oak Dr Peducah KY 42001 270-443-8994 615-584-9477 matsta@dippindots.com

Shannon Rutherford

404 W. Harrison St., Suite 650 Chicago IL 60607 630-518-2218 shannon.rutherford@ferrara.com

Ferrero

Erin King

7 Sylvan Way Parsippany NJ 07054 732-639-3479 erin.king@Ferrero.com

Fiji Water

Patrick Haas

11444 W. Olympic Blvd.

Suite 210 Los Angeles CA 90064 856-426-2775 patrick.haas@fijiwater.com

continued on page 42

2025 ISSUE 3 AVANTI 41

2025

AFFILIATE MEMBERS Firestone Walker Brewing Co. Patrick Butler

1400 Ramada Drive Paso Robles CA 93446 631-965-1939 patrick.butler@ firestonewalker.com

Geloso Beverage Group Sydni Vaught

continued from page 41

Hershey Company

Lindt & Sprungli

19 East Chocolate Ave Hershey PA 17033 810-956-8433 shconlin@hersheys.com

One Fine Chocolate Stratham NH 03885 929-790-3745 ehenry@lindt.com

Scott Conlin

Hestia Tobacco

Liquid Death

12600 Hill Country Blvd., Suite R- 275 Bee Hive TX 78738 609-903-3678 justin@hestiatobacco.com

3898 Van Ness Lane Dallas TX 75220 214-293-0276 a.rountree@liquiddeath.com

Justin Finn

Hostess Brands Jackie Lawing

1662 Manitou Road Rochester NY 14626 817-492-1200 svaught@gelosobev.com

9030 County Road 2432 Terrell TX 75160 940-368-4413 972-638-7523 jlawing@hostessbrands.com

Gondola Skate

Jenji Boba Tea

9941 Prospect Avenue Santee CA 92071 619-222-6487 817-929-8597 619-222-6413 smccoy@gondolaskate.com

377 Swift Ave South San Francisco CA 94080 650-616-7777 #222 734-747-1983 kanediamond@alodrink.com

Shawn McCoy

good2grow

Elaine Rodriquez

400 Galleria Parkway, Suite 1700 Atlanta GA 30339 678-718-2000 646-457-7549 elaine.rodriquez@ good2grow.com

Gorilla Mind Chuck Karnes

5008 Randolph Ave NE Otsego MN 55374 859-492-4455 chuck.karnes@gorillaenergy.com

Haribo

Meredith Blackburn

9500 Bryn Mawr Ave Ste 700 Rosemont IL 60018 224-229-7581 meredith.blackburn@haribo.com

42

AVANTI 2025 ISSUE 3

Emma Henry

Kane Diamond

JUUL Labs Lisa Lee

560 20th Street San Francisco CA 94123 908-399-3061 lisa.lee@juul.com

Kellanova

Joseph Cross

One Kellogg Square Battle Creek MI 49016 832-771-3556 joseph.cross@kellanova.com

Keurig Dr Pepper Todd Doan

5301 Legacy Drive Plano TX 75024 972-822-7270 todd.doan@kdrp.com

Alex Rountree

Lucy Goods TJ Signa

110 New York Avenue, Apt 2D Halesite NY 11743 516-319-9824 tj@lucy.com

Mark Anthony Brands Hector Mayer

167 N. Green Street, Suite 600A Chicago IL 60607 619-955-4911 hmayer@markanthony.com

Marsh

Kalli Hoben

12421 Meredith Drive Urbandale IA 50323 319-899-4349 kalli.hoben01@marsh.com

Mars Wrigley George Dugan

11404 Maggiore Drive Austin TX 78739 713-299-1235 george.dugan@effem.com

McLane Company Nick Bullard

4747 McLane Parkway Temple TX 76504 414-704-9392 nick.bullard@mclaneco.com

MegaMex Foods/ Hormel-Don Miguel Todd Ginley

333 S Anita Dr, Suite 1000 Orange TX 92868 972-670-8875 twginley@mmxfoods.com

Mela Water

Marisa Mancuso

217 Hampton Drive, Office B Venice CA 90291 631-767-7064 marisa@melawater.com

Mini Melts Ice Cream William Allison

2540 Metropolitan Drive Trevose PA 19053 860-889-7300 267-975-0262 860-887-1033 bill@minimelts.com

Molson Coors Ben Vallowe

7800 North Dallas Parkway, Ste 400 Plano TX 75024 504-920-9114 ben.vallowe@molsoncoors.com

Mondelez International Christopher Arns

1711 St. James Place Placentia CA 92870 714-924-0316 christopher.arns@mdlz.com

MONSTER Brewing Co. Kathryn Kelley

1 Monster Way Corona CA 92879 667-304-1510 kathryn.kelley@monsterbrewing.com

MONSTER Energy Co. Michael Pineiro

1 Monster Way Corona CA 92879 951-316-8635 michael.pineiro@monsterenergy.com

Muddy Bites Ann Leahy

500 West Madison Street, Suite 100 Chicago IL 60661 415-816-1902 ann@muddybites.com

Nature’s Way

Adrian Sherrod

100 N. 6th St. Minneapolis MN 55403 619-820-1365 adrian.sherrod@naturesway.com

Nepa Wholesale Zahid Anwar

8445 NW 62nd Place Parkland FL 33367 954-465-6896 zahid711@gmail.com

Noka

Linnea Fohlbrook

5190 Shaw Lane Denton TX 76208 214-843-7012 linnea@nokaorganics.com

Nowadays

Chris Wheatley

150 Progress, Suite 220 Irvine CA 92618 812-598-9210 cwheatley@trynowadays.com

Pabst Brewing Co. Diego Ayala

110 E. Houston St. San Antonio TX 78205 210-868-4629 832-397-7652 dayala@pabst.com

Paradox

Tori Lasiter

6330 E Thomas Rd #200 Scottsdale AZ 85251 406-459-6743 404-368-6742 tori.lasiter@paradox.ai

Payality Powered

By Payroll People Morgan Bunker

2152 E Copper Ave, #105 Fresno CA 93730 702-807-5267 mbunker@payrollpeople.com

PepsiCo, Inc. Chris Quinn

7701 Legacy Drive Plano TX 75024 479-616-0636 chris.m.quinn@pepsico.com

Perfetti Van Melle Scott Swanson

3645 Turfway Road Erlanger KY 41018 918-231-0119 scott.swanson@perfettivanmelle.com

Poppi

Scott Linke

31 Navasota St Austin TX 78702 815-341-4845 scott.linke@drinkpoppi.com

Primo Brands

Rene Chumbley

1322 Crestside Drive, Ste 100 Coppel TX 75109 817-475-4710 rene.chumbley@ primobrands.com

Procter & Gamble Colleen Camiller

464 Lincoln Street Coopersville MI 49404 161-443-7906 camiller.cr@pg.com

PSR Brands

Frank Guagenti

3 Riverway Dr Suite 500 Houston TX 77056 561-592-8595 frank@psrbrands.com

Ranch Fuel

Carly Barrick

133 Dylan Drive Prosper TX 75078 760-851-5513 carly@ranchfuel.com

Real American Beer DeeDon Bates

1365 SR 209 Clovis NM 88101 806-433-1352 deedon@therealamerican.com

Red Bull North America AJ Quahliero

325 Marshall Heights Drive Pittsburgh PA 15090 215-519-0215 aj.quahliero@redbull.com

2025

AFFILIATE MEMBERS Shankman & Associates Jenny Shriver

1840 Airport Exchange Blvd, Ste 240 Erlanger KY 41018 630-730-9410 jshriver@shankmanandassociates.com

SRP Companies Jerid Moses

85 Rio Grande Dr Castle Rock CO 80104 303-656-1491 jerid.moses@srpcompanies.com

Redline Distribution 8075 NW 68th Street Miami FL 33166

Republic Amusements Jerry Marfut

868 Sandbox Dr Aubrey TX 76227 214-980-6308 214-970-8350 jerry@republicamusements.com

Republic Brands Steve Wegert

2301 Ravine Way Glenview IL 60025 224-374-6239 swegert@republicbrands.com

Republic National Distributing Edwin Pierce

8045 Northcut Road Houston TX 77040 713-875-9358 edwin.piece@rndc-usa.com

RJ Reynolds Tom Bunting

401 N Main Street Winston Salem NC 27101 630-310-4028 buntint@rjrt.com

Storck USA Tony Harper

325 North LaSalle St., Ste 400 Chicago IL 60654 312-494-5912 312-256-3745 tony.harper@us.storck.com

Suntory RTD

Kristie Adamson

11 Madison Ave New York NY 10010 917-691-9406 kristie.adamson@ beamsuntory.com

Swedish Match North America James Duke

1021 E. Cary Street, Suite 1600 Richmond VA 23219 804-877-6948 james.duke@smpmi.com

Swisher International Travis Zikias

4354 E. Kentbrook Dr. Springfield MO 65802 904-402-9221 tzikias@swisher.com continued on page 44

2025 ISSUE 3 AVANTI 43

2025

AFFILIATE MEMBERS T-Mobile

Farouk Latif

3560 Dallas Parkway Frisco TX 75034 469-345-0037 farouk.latif1@t-mobile.com

Tootsie Roll Industries Colt Bearden

6375 Lansdale Rd Fort Worth TX 76116 817-538-8693 michael.bearden@tootsie-roll.com

Trinchero Family Estates Courtney Thompson

6227 Llano Ave Dallas TX 75214 214-293-1165 cnthompson@tfewines.com

continued from page 43

Turning Point Brands

Vita Coco

Wild Planet Foods

610 Tall Oaks Court Centerton AR 72719 479-224-9763 gcooper@tpbi.com

250 Park Ave South, 7th Floor, at 20th St New York NY 10003 718-614-8592 tpuntoompoti@vitacoco.com

1585 Heartwood Drive, Suite F McKinnleyville CA 95519 516-443-3853 tkeech@wildplanetfoods.com

George Cooper

Tweaker Energy Drink

Vixxo Corporation

13757 North Stemmons Freeway

AVANTI 2025 ISSUE 3

Todd Keech

Wip Energy

Regina Coleman

Mike Sweeney

Farmers Branch TX 75234 469-878-8805 hr@tweakershot.com

7000 E Shea Blvd Ste H1970 Scottsdale AZ 85254 925-756-7075 916-217-5130 regina.coleman@vixxo.com

Ultimate Sales & Services

VNM

Wonderful Pistachios & Almonds

Haider Khan

Tyler Coates

2611 Salcedo Ave Savannah GA 31406 513-889-7323 tcoates@ultimate-sales.com

Veesion

Richard Mortimer

121 West 36th Street #237 New York NY 10018 929-357-1552 richard.mortimer@veesion.com

44

Tom Puntoompoti

Stephanie Ritcheson 1602 Westmeadow Trl Round Rock TX 78665 805-416-6764

ritchesonenterprises@gmail.com

WEI - Blue Bunny Laura Sprague

1 Blue Bunny Drive Le Mars IA 51031 712-251-6549 llsprague@bluebunny.com

165 Avenue Road, 6th Floor Toronto ON M5R3S4 416-720-0803 479-586-5200 mike.sweeney@wip.com

Holly Hines

1063 Enchanted Rock Drive Allen TX 75013 214-701-5282 holly.hines@wonderful.com

Zest Universe Adam Ford

5172 Le Tourneau Circle Tampa FL 33610 609-234-2778 adam@zeouniverse.com

Member News

continued from page 13

McLane Company recently launched a National Commissary program under its McLane Fresh banner, expanding its cold-chain capabilities to deliver fresh, never-frozen, grab-and-go foods with a seven-day shelf life to convenience stores nationwide. • 7-Eleven Japan has introduced “Japan’s longest roll of toilet paper,” a quirky product measuring 356 meters—7.11 times longer than the standard roll—as a nod to its brand name and a response to consumer frustration over frequent roll replacement, reported Sora News 24. The ultra-condensed, tubeless roll has a budget-friendly price of 298 yen (US$2). • The U.S. Treasury Department announced it will halt penny production by early 2026, following its final order of penny blanks and citing manufacturing costs that far exceed the coin’s face value—3.7 cents per penny in 2024. The decision is expected to save $56 million annually and marks a symbolic end to one of the earliest minted coins in U.S. history. • Dollar Tree is quietly raising prices on select $1.25 items to $1.50, with red stickers covering old price $1.50 tags in stores and sparking shopper reactions on social media, reported Business Insider. The move follows a $70 million tariff hit and signals a more “strategic” pricing shift, as the retailer navigates rising import costs without a blanket increase. • Most U.S. shoppers still aren’t ready to hand over the checkout process to AI, according to a new Omnisend survey, with 66 percent saying they wouldn’t trust AI to make purchases for them—even if it meant better deals. Concerns around data privacy, upselling, and transparency are driving the hesitation. • In a major enforcement sweep, the FDA and U.S. Customs and Border Protection recently seized nearly two million units of unauthorized e-cigarette products in Chicago—valued at $33.8 million—most of which were falsely labeled to evade detection and originated from China. • continued on page 49

strategy amid mounting pressure from the Trump administration.

Fed Chair Jerome Powell, facing political heat, warned that tariffs could both increase prices and slow growth—creating a precarious balancing act for future monetary decisions.

“U.S. inflation climbed to 2.7 percent in June largely driven

by President Trump’s sweeping import tariffs.”

Consumers Embrace C-Stores For Meals

Intouch Insight’s 2025 Convenience Store Trends Report reveals a dramatic evolution in shopper expectations, with convenience stores now rivaling quick-service restaurants (QSRs) in perceived value. Nearly threequarters (72 percent) of U.S. shoppers view c-stores as legitimate QSR alternatives, up from 56 percent last year—driven by a rise in made-to-order adoption (85 percent) and hot-meal purchases (35 percent, up from 29 percent).

Cleanliness emerged as a key trust factor, with 70 percent of customers equating store hygiene with food freshness. Loyalty programs remain a high-impact opportunity: while 72 percent are already enrolled, a striking 85 percent would join if perks were personalized, signaling strong demand for targeted digital engagement.

Beyond foodservice, retail media and energy amenities are reshaping how c-stores attract and retain visitors. In-store digital ads caught the attention of 47 percent of shoppers—nearly double last

year’s number—and over a third made purchases based on them.

EV charging availability is another driver of incremental visits, especially among Millennials aged 25–34, 45 percent of whom select c-stores based on charging access.

Organized Retail Crime Emerges As National Security Threat

Organized retail crime (ORC) is escalating across the U.S., with coordinated theft rings now targeting not just storefronts, but entire supply chains, reported the National Retail Federation (NRF).

These groups operate across state and international lines and are often linked to other criminal enterprises like drug trafficking and money laundering. The article highlights how thefts from railcars and trucks disrupt commerce on a broader scale—stealing everything from electronics to pharmaceuticals.

Beyond store shelves, ORC is also driving online fraud, gift card tampering, and phone scams, prompting Homeland Security Investigations to launch Project Red Hook to warn retailers and consumers about international criminal activity. The surge in violence, economic disruption, and product unavailability has led law enforcement and retailers to call for comprehensive federal intervention.

In response, 38 state attorneys general signed a letter in February urging Congress to take swift action.

Their concerns are echoed in the bipartisan Combating Organized Retail Crime Act of 2025, which proposes a new federal coordination center to centralize data-sharing continued on page 47

2025 ISSUE 3 AVANTI 45

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AVANTI 2025 ISSUE 3

Member News

continued from page 45

and investigations, and enhance penalties for supply chain-related crimes. Retailers are also stepping up their efforts, but rising losses and heightened employee risk continue to strain resources. The NRF states that ORC is no longer a localized nuisance—it’s a nationwide threat to consumer access, public safety, and economic stability. With 77 congressional supporters already on board in the new session, momentum is building to treat organized retail crime with the seriousness and coordination it demands.

“Organized retail crime is escalating across the U.S., with coordinated theft rings now targeting entire supply chains.”

Tariffs Could Increase Canned Food Prices

The Trump administration’s decision to double steel import tariffs to 50 percent is causing concern across the canned food industry, where tin-coated sheet steel—mostly sourced from abroad—is critical for packaging, reported The Wall Street Journal.

U.S. producers have reduced their capacity, forcing can manufacturers to rely heavily on imports, with roughly 75 percent of tin-plate coming from countries like Canada and Europe. As a result, the Consumer Brands Association estimates that canned goods could see price increases of 9 percent to 15 percent, translating to 18 to 30 cents more per can of vegetables, potentially pushing consumers away from shelf-stable food staples. Can Corp. of America, which makes

over a billion cans annually, noted that domestic sourcing accounts for only 12 percent of its tin-plate purchases, reinforcing the industry’s dependence on foreign supply.

CSNews Report Reveals Industry Under Pressure

Convenience store retailers entered 2024 on edge, facing weary consumers, lower foot traffic, and rising operational costs—all of which contributed to the second consecutive year of declining overall sales, according to the 2025 Convenience Store News Industry Report. Total U.S. c-store sales fell 2.6 percent, from $775.5 billion to $755.2 billion, largely due to reduced fuel revenues despite a slight uptick in gallon volume.

Lower gas prices pushed fuel revenue down by 5.3 percent to $462 billion, even as fuel made up 61.2 percent of the industry’s sales mix. Interestingly, in-store sales hit a record $293.2 billion, with their share rising to 38.8 percent. Yet the growth rate slowed considerably to just 1.9 percent—the lowest in six years—indicating that inflation, margin pressure, and cost sensitivity continue to weigh on consumer spending.

Gross profits tell a more balanced story. While overall industry gross profits edged up just 1.2 percent to $128.37 billion, the breakdown shows that in-store offerings remain the stronger contributor to profitability. In-store sales accounted for 60.7 percent of gross profit dollars, compared to 39.3 percent for fuel, reinforcing the importance of food, beverage, and general

merchandise in driving margins.

Tariffs Fuel Retail Price Hikes & Shrink Inventory

Sticker prices are climbing across the U.S. retail landscape as tariffs—particularly on Chinese imports—drive up costs, prompting re-ticketing across distribution centers, reported CNBC. The president of ITS Logistics said he is seeing product markups between 8 percent and 15 percent on items like apparel and consumer goods, with even online platforms reflecting these adjustments.

Footwear retailers expect prices to rise 6 percent to 10 percent due to the trade war’s effects. Inventory levels are simultaneously shrinking, with clients importing fewer stockkeeping units and maintaining leaner supplies amid ongoing economic uncertainty and a 0.5 percent drop in GDP during Q1 2025. The last time this scale of re-ticketing was seen was during the pandemic, though price increases then were even more widespread.

Major Retailers Getting Into Fuel Sales

Major retailers like Walmart, Costco, and Dollar General are increasingly investing in gas station infrastructure, challenging the assumption that electric vehicles would soon dominate, reported Quartz. Walmart plans to open 45 new fuel stations in 2025, reaching over 450 total locations across 34 states, while Costco is extending operating hours for its membersonly fuel centers. Dollar General,

continued from page 48

2025 ISSUE 3 AVANTI 47

Member News

continued from page 47

though still in the pilot phase, has grown its fuel offerings to 40+ stores in the South. Experts say the EV infrastructure is still too underdeveloped to replace gas, and retailers see fuel services as a way to build customer loyalty, increase foot traffic, and offset losses from inflation and tariffs. Walmart’s stations, unlike Costco’s, are open to the general public, potentially widening its customer base as it navigates economic pressures.

“Major retailers like Walmart, Costco, and Dollar General are increasingly investing in gas station infrastructure.”

Dollar Stores Rebound In 2025

Dollar and discount chains are emerging as unlikely winners in 2025, outperforming other non-discretionary sectors thanks to renewed consumer focus on affordability, according to a recent Placer.ai report. While the category struggled in 2024 due to market saturation and tightened lowerincome spending, chains like Dollar Tree, Dollar General, and Five Below have surged ahead with increased store visits—collectively up 3 percent year-over-year. This rebound stems from macroeconomic pressures and from strategic expansion into new communities, offering value-driven alternatives beyond traditional superstores.

As consumers brace for potential financial headwinds, the shift toward value-based shopping is reshaping retail priorities.

Loyalty is also driving success: Dollar General reports that 36 48

AVANTI 2025 ISSUE 3

percent of its shoppers visit three times or more each month. Brands are capitalizing on this loyalty by expanding assortments—especially in grocery—to maintain relevance against warehouse clubs and superstores. However, analysts caution that even budget-conscious shoppers are becoming more selective, pushing dollar chains to innovate beyond price alone. With economic uncertainty lingering, the sector remains well-positioned provided it keeps pace with evolving consumer expectations and retail competition.

Private Label Beer Gains Momentum

Private label beer is gaining traction among retailers and convenience stores as shifting consumer priorities and excess brewing capacity create ideal conditions for innovation, reported C-Store Dive. While beer has historically resisted private label penetration due to strong brand loyalty and cheap national options, current demand for value-driven, quality brews has opened the door.

Retailers like Costco and Walmart are moving aggressively: Costco revived its Kirkland beer line with new Deschutes Brewery offerings, and Walmart appears poised to launch Brewmasters—a series of contracted beers resembling major brands.

Stewart’s Shops has also relaunched its

Mountain Brew lager in partnership with New York-based Paradox Brewery after a five-year hiatus, and the reception has exceeded expectations, with sales more than doubling initial forecasts. Priced at $2.19 per 19.2-ounce can, Mountain Brew appeals to cost-conscious consumers while offering improved quality and local flair.

Despite promising momentum, private label beer still faces hurdles. Creating brand awareness and competing with mainstream beer giants—backed by massive marketing budgets—remains difficult. Successful launches hinge on clear product positioning, clever branding, and finding brewers capable of meeting scale demands.

Couche-Tard Expands U.S. Footprint

Alimentation Couche-Tard recently completed its $1.6 billion acquisition of GetGo Café + Market, adding 270 convenience stores across Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Maryland, and Indiana to its U.S. network, reported C-Store Dive. The acquisition makes Couche-Tard the second-largest c-store operator in the country. To satisfy FTC requirements, 35 stores were sold to Majors Management ahead of the deal’s close. GetGo now operates as a standalone business unit led and its popular myPerks loyalty program—shared with Giant Eagle—continues uninterrupted. Couche-Tard said it plans to invest in GetGo’s foodservice strengths, including its made-to-order menu and drive-thru capabilities.

Member News

continued from page 48

C-Stores Serve As Lifelines During Disasters

continued from page 45

Casey’s General Stores plans to open 80 new convenience stores during fiscal 2026—marking a significant step toward its revised goal of 500 openings, which was expanded after last year’s acquisition of 198 CEFCO stores. The retailer will invest roughly $600 million in property and equipment, with growth driven by a mix of acquisitions and new builds. • Yesway appears to be in advanced talks to sell its Iowa and Kansas convenience stores to MegaSaver, reported C-Store Dive. If the deal closes, it would nearly double MegaSaver’s store count, extend the Nebraska-based chain into Kansas, and significantly expand its presence across Iowa.

• Applegreen will invest $750 million to renovate and operate 18 Massachusetts travel plazas under a 35-year lease with the state, beginning construction on six sites in early 2026 with designs tailored to their regional settings.

The overhaul—selected over bids from major chains like 7-Eleven and Love’s— will include expanded public space, revamped layouts to increase dwell time, and a minimum annual revenue share of $28.4 million to the state. • The FDA has officially authorized Juul Labs to continue selling its e-cigarettes in the U.S., concluding a five-year review that found the products’ benefits to adult smokers outweighed their potential risks to public health, reported The Wall Street Journal. • Target is testing smartphone-controlled digital locks on store shelves to combat theft and streamline operations, allowing staff—and potentially Shipt shoppers and paid members—to unlock cases more efficiently than with manual keys, reported Bloomberg. • Ground beef prices reached a record $5.98 per pound in May—up 16.2 percent from a year earlier—driven by shrinking herd sizes and supply chain disruptions, reported The New York Times. To stabilize pricing and continued on page 50

services like Wi-Fi and phone charging, and serve as information hubs.

Shoppers Unknowingly Buying Store Brands

Convenience stores are increasingly recognized as essential infrastructure during national emergencies, offering vital support when larger systems fail, reported Forbes. With over 150,000 dispersed across the U.S., their proximity to residential areas and operational flexibility allow them to remain open during crises, providing water, food, fuel, and other essentials. Equipped with generators and alternate supply chains, many stores transform into mini-relief centers—especially in hard-hit or underserved communities—bridging the gap when roads are impassable or centralized retailers are inaccessible.

Their role during Hurricane Milton and similar events highlighted their capacity to deliver comfort and sustenance, with generator-powered stores offering cold drinks and hot meals amid widespread outages.

Preparation is key: successful stores invest in infrastructure like permanent generators, multisupplier contracts, and structured playbooks. These protocols, paired with strategic inventory management and staff training, enable c-stores to adapt service levels and maintain operations across varying disaster intensities.

Beyond commerce, they also support emergency teams with fuel access, offer communication

Americans are increasingly switching to store-brand products, often without realizing it, reported NBC News. U.S. sales of privatelabel goods hit a record $271 billion last year, up nearly 4 percent, as retailers enhance packaging and branding to make these items indistinguishable from name brands.

In a First Insight survey, 72 percent of consumers failed to correctly identify store-brand items when shown side by side with national products. Retailers are tapping into this confusion, using slick design and shelf appeal to present their brands as equal or better alternatives.

Beyond aesthetics, the shift underlines deeper changes in consumer priorities. Nearly half of shoppers said they tried a store brand as a “dupe,” and 84 percent now trust its quality just as much as legacy labels. This growing comfort with private labels reflects fading brand loyalty and a reprioritization of value, especially amid lingering price sensitivity. Name-brand giants are responding, with some now focusing on sales volume rather than premium pricing to stay competitive.

“Convenience stores are increasingly recognized as essential infrastructure during national emergencies.”

Costco recently opened its first-ever standalone gas station in Mission Viejo, California,

Costco Opens Its First Standalone Gas Station

continued on page 51

2025 ISSUE 3 AVANTI 49

Delaware Valley FOA Meeting Tackles Finances & Fosters Dialogue The Delaware Valley FOA held its meeting on June 18, 2025, bringing together franchisees, vendors, and SEI leadership for a productive exchange of ideas.

Kevin Dath, Zone Accounting Leader from SEI, led an informative session on various accounting issues, including the 7Now financials and the H13 Report, as well as addressing concerns about lottery audit issues.

Vendors like Utz and If Foods & Beverages engaged members with product updates and promotions. The meeting featured a lively discussion between FOA members and presenting vendors, highlighting the teamwork and dedication to resolving challenges and strengthening business.

continued from page 49

secure inventory, major retailers like Walmart and Costco are deepening their involvement in meat production and packaging. • Del Monte Foods recently filed for bankruptcy protection as shifting consumer preferences and economic pressures—such as inflation and tariffs—eroded demand for its canned products, reported the Associated Press. While its Joyba bubble tea and broth brands posted sales gains in fiscal 2024, these weren’t enough to offset declining interest in legacy items, prompting a court-supervised asset sale backed by $912.5 million in financing. • Circle K has partnered with retail tech firm Swiftly to launch an expansive alcohol cashback program offering instant digital rebates on beer, wine, and spirits for legal-age shoppers. The initiative streamlines rebate compliance across state 50

AVANTI 2025 ISSUE 3

lines, enhances customer loyalty, and provides alcohol brands with targeted promotional tools and rich performance analytics. • Ferrero, the Italian confectionery giant behind Nutella, is acquiring American cereal maker WK Kellogg Co for $3.1 billion, bringing to-

gether iconic brands like Frosted Flakes and Froot Loops under its expanding U.S. portfolio. • U.S. consumers are gravitating toward cost-conscious living by spending more time at home and investing in essentials like small appliances, cookware, and home comfort items, which saw a 1 percent overall increase in demand during the first five

months of 2025, according to a new Circana study. • Amazon’s recent four-day Prime Day summer sales event surpassed expectations by generating $24.1 billion in U.S. online sales, marking a 30.3 percent year-over-year increase and setting a new benchmark for seasonal shopping, reported Forbes.

• The U.S. convenience services industry—spanning vending, micro-markets, office coffee, and pantry services—now generates $40.04 billion in annual economic impact, supporting more than 165,000 jobs nationwide, according to a report from the Foundation of the National Automatic Merchandising Association • Wawa recently filed a lawsuit against Garfield, New Jersey, challenging a revised municipal ordinance that restricts retail businesses from operating between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m., re-

Member News

continued from page 49

continued from page 50

ported NJ.com. The suit alleges that Garfield’s updated definition of “retail business” unfairly targets Wawa, and notes that about 25 percent of store sales occur during the restricted hours, prompting a temporary court order to block enforcement while litigation proceeds. • Aldi has begun selling alcohol at over 30 of its New York City locations for the first time, introducing a curated lineup that includes beer, cider, and ready-to-drink beverages such as Lemon Radler and Margarita Variety Packs, reported Store Brands. • Amazon Fresh is leaning heavily into a low-price strategy, with store visits revealing ag-

gressive signage and significantly discounted brand-name items compared to nearby competitors, reported Grocery Dive. The push is part of a longterm brand repositioning that includes updated store designs and a shift away from Just Walk Out technology in order to attract budget-conscious shoppers without requiring Prime membership. • By mid-2026, Generation Z is expected to lead all age groups in spending on private label brands, driven by a growing association of these products with affordability, innovation, and premium appeal, according to a new Numerator report. • AAA’s latest survey reveals waning consumer interest in electric vehicles, with only 16 percent of U.S. adults likely to purchase one—down to its lowest level since 2019—amid concerns over cost, charging infrastructure, and suitability for long-distance travel. • Walmart is enhancing career development with three new tools: an AI-powered interview coach that offers real-time feedback on candidate responses, a skills-matching tool, and a veteran-focused job simulator—all aimed at improving hiring outcomes and confidence. continued on page 54

converting a former Bed Bath & Beyond location into a 40-pump, members-only fueling site without a retail warehouse attached, reported Fox Business. The site marks a strategic expansion amid rising fuel demand and complements Costco’s extended gas station hours introduced earlier this year. The new location—just 2.5 miles from Costco’s Laguna Niguel store— offers competitive pricing, with regular unleaded listed at $4.35 per gallon, below the regional average of $4.61. Despite California’s push toward electrification, Costco continues investing in fuel infrastructure, reflecting sustained member usage and two recordsetting fuel volume weeks in April.

Executives cite longer hours, more locations, and lower prices as catalysts, signaling a deepening commitment to the fuel segment even as broader market dynamics evolve.

“Costco recently opened its first-ever standalone gas station.”

Uber Expands SNAP Access

Uber Eats recently announced that it has significantly broadened its support for SNAP EBT payments by adding retailers like Wegmans, Gopuff, and Family Dollar to its growing network, allowing eligible users to order groceries and convenience items directly through the app. This partnership—with

payments powered by Forage— now includes access to tens of thousands of stores across the U.S., spanning national chains and local favorites, and looks to improve food security for communities lacking reliable transportation. As part of its ongoing commitment to accessibility, Uber said it is offering perks such as $0 delivery fees on initial SNAP orders and a limited-time free Uber One trial for EBT cardholders, while continuing to onboard new merchants and promote healthy food choices with greater convenience.

Mars-Kellanova Deal Clears FTC Hurdle

Mars’ $36 billion acquisition of Kellanova has been approved by U.S. antitrust authorities, who found no violations of American competition law, reported Reuters.

The Federal Trade Commission recently concluded that the merger did not meet the threshold for being anticompetitive, effectively ending its review. This clears a major hurdle for Mars, which has now received all regulatory green lights except from the European Union.

The deal, announced last August, would unite iconic brands including M&Ms, Snickers, Pringles, and Kellogg cereals under one corporate umbrella, capturing roughly 12 percent of the U.S. snacking and candy market. Despite previous concerns from consumer advocacy groups about potential price hikes, U.S. regulators said there was insufficient evidence that the merger would harm competition.

2025 ISSUE 3 AVANTI 51

Legislative Update States Advance Aggressive Tobacco Legislation

In June 2025, several states escalated their efforts to regulate tobacco products through tax hikes, product bans, and updated licensing laws, reported Convenience Store News. Indiana tripled its cigarette tax to $3 per pack, extending increases to cigars, e-cigarettes, and other tobacco items. Delaware

proposed sweeping changes including a $1.50 cigarette tax hike and a new 25-cent-per-milliliter vapor product tax, while also updating its tobacco licensing system. In Connecticut, new legislation created a Hemp and Cannabis Enforcement Taskforce

new excise tax on oral nicotine products set to begin in 2026.

New York and Maryland remain among the highest taxed states, each exceeding $5 per pack.

“SEVERAL STATES ESCALATED THEIR EFFORTS TO REGULATE TOBACCO PRODUCTS THROUGH TAX HIKES, PRODUCT BANS, AND UPDATED LICENSING LAWS.”

Bipartisan legislation reintroduced in Congress— known as the Ensuring FeeFree Benefits Transactions Act (EBT Act)—seeks to permanently ban processing fees on electronic benefits transfer (EBT) transactions under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), reported NACS Daily. Cosponsored by Congresswoman Shontel Brown (D-OH) and Congressman Tony Wied (R-WI), the bill is designed to protect small and independent retailers

and cracked down on illegal cannabis and underage nicotine sales. California’s Mountain View took steps toward banning flavored tobacco and vape products, partnering with Santa Clara County to draft stricter ordinances.

Meanwhile, Oregon passed a

Avanti Is Your Magazine Avanti Magazine was created in 1981 by franchisees, for franchisees. It represents your voice within the 7-Eleven universe and requires your participation to remain relevant to the ideas, information, and knowledge floating about the franchisee community. You can contribute to the success of Avanti Magazine by submitting any of the following: > Articles on any 7-Eleven topic that may be of interest to other franchisees. > Your FOA events and Board meeting calendars. > FOA event photos with a short description (who, what, where, when, and why). > Store or community event photos with captions. > Any combination of the above.

Please send your submissions to avantimag@ncasef.com.

As former National Coalition Chairman Bill Schuessler famously said,

“None of us is as great as all of us together, so let’s stay tightly knit together.”

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AVANTI 2025 ISSUE 3

EBT Fee Ban Bill Gains Bipartisan Support

Legislative Update from rising operational costs, while preserving critical food access for SNAP participants in underserved areas. The measure builds on a five-year temporary ban established in the 2018 Farm Bill, which is set to expire this year, potentially opening the door to new fees that advocates argue could drive retailers away from the program and limit access for millions of Americans.

Supporters—including NACS—argue that imposing EBT processing fees would place an unfair financial burden on convenience stores, especially those in food deserts where they often serve as primary access points for nutrition assistance.

Congressman Wied, drawing from his experience as a former c-store operator, highlighted the legislation’s “win-win” nature, emphasizing relief for small businesses and continued support for SNAP families.

Illinois Nicotine Tax Hike In Effect

On July 1, Illinois implemented a sweeping increase on nicotinerelated taxes, raising rates on vapes, nicotine pouches, cigars, and chewing tobacco to match the state’s 45 percent cigarette tax, reported CBS News. Cigarette taxes themselves also rose by $1 per pack. The policy, championed

by State Senator Javier Loera Cervantes, was expected to generate nearly $30 million in revenue while discouraging tobacco use across all forms.

Cervantes, a former smoker, had framed the move as a dual effort to improve public health and fund state initiatives.

The measure faced mixed reactions. Swedish Match, the maker of Zyn, expressed concern that the higher cost might deter smokers from switching to less harmful alternatives. Public health advocates like the American Lung Association countered that products such as nicotine pouches were not FDA-approved cessation tools and still posed health risks.

Meanwhile, the Illinois Fuel & Retail Association warned the tax hike could drive consumers to buy across state lines, hurting instate retailers.

“ILLINOIS RECENTLY IMPLEMENTED A SWEEPING INCREASE ON NICOTINE-RELATED TAXES TO MATCH THE STATE’S 45 PERCENT CIGARETTE TAX.”

California EV Mandate Overturned

In a pivotal legislative move, President Trump recently signed two Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolutions—H.J. Res. 87 and H.J. Res. 88—effectively overturning California’s ambitious electric vehicle (EV) mandate, reported NACS Daily. The original

state regulation sought to require 22 percent of new vehicles sold in California to be “zero emission” by model year 2025, with a longerterm goal of transitioning to 100 percent zero-emission vehicle sales. This mandate, framed as part of California’s broader climate agenda, was struck down on grounds that it restricted consumer choice and lacked appropriate federal approval. For such mandates to stand, states must receive a waiver from the Environmental Protection Agency based on state-specific air quality concerns. California’s waiver, however, was rooted in global climate change rather than localized air quality, which raised red flags and contributed to its withdrawal.

The overturning was backed by a bipartisan coalition in Congress and received vocal support from industry stakeholders like the National Association of Convenience Stores (NACS) and the California Fuels and Convenience Alliance. They cited potential economic burdens— including increased vehicle costs and strained infrastructure—as risks to working families and small businesses. In parallel, California’s rule is also being challenged in the courts, with the U.S. Supreme Court already granting review in related litigation. A final judicial decision is expected later in 2025, potentially shaping future regulatory boundaries between state and federal authority on vehicle emissions.

2025 ISSUE 3 AVANTI 53

SEI NEWS Global Stores Lift Seven & i Profits

Japan’s Seven & i Holdings reported a 9.7 percent rise in operating profit for the March– May quarter, surpassing analyst expectations with ¥65.1 billion ($445 million) in earnings, driven largely by stronger performance in overseas convenience store operations, reported Reuters. While its U.S. business benefited from expanded proprietary products and optimized labor costs, domestic convenience store profit declined. Notably, net profit received a boost from the sale of Ito-Yokado assets. The company is currently navigating a competitive retail climate, and has been actively repurchasing shares—¥156 billion spent by June’s end—as part of strategic efforts that include divesting noncore assets and planning to list its North American unit.

Despite maintaining its fullyear forecast, Seven & i faces headwinds at home. U.S. 7-Eleven President Stanley Reynolds described the American

“Seven & i reported a 9.7 percent rise in operating profit for the March–May quarter, driven largely by stronger performance in overseas c-store operations.” retail landscape as “tough,” underscoring a consumer demand shift toward budget-conscious purchases. To counteract that pressure, the brand is prioritizing value-driven offerings.

7-Eleven Raises $3 Million For CMN Hospitals

SEI announced it raised over $3 million for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals during its 34th annual Miracle Tournament & Celebration Dinner held in Dallas. The fundraising event brought together franchisees, vendor partners, and employees for a charitable golf tournament and evening celebration dedicated to supporting pediatric healthcare. The funds will benefit more than 90 nonprofit children’s

continued on page 55

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continued from page 51

• CVS is enhancing the packaging of nearly 3,000 private-label health and wellness products by the end of

2026 in order to enhance shelf visibility and lure customers away from brand names, reported Fast Company. • CU, South Korea’s leading convenience store brand, is entering the U.S. market via a master franchise agreement with CU Hawaii LLC, with the first store slated to open in Hawaii this October, reported the Korea Herald., CU plans to appeal to the state’s diverse population and tourist base by blending Korean-style ready-to-eat meals like kimbap and ramen with local Hawaiian favorites such as poke and loco moco. • Circle K recently launched its first EV charging-only location in Europe featuring ten ultra-fast 400kW chargers and a modern 1,076-square-foot convenience store. Designed as a premium stop along Sweden’s busy E6 motorway, the site combines efficient EV charging with elevated amenities—fresh food, Wi-Fi, and seating—to position Circle K as the go-to destination for on-thego electric drivers. • Nebraska recently became the first state to receive USDA approval for a two-year pilot banning soda and energy drink purchases through SNAP benefits starting January 1, 2026. The change presents major implementation challenges for convenience retailers, including IT system updates and potential customer friction at checkout, while other states like Texas, Arkansas, and Colorado pursue similar waivers. • Operation Flagship—a recent threeday joint effort by the Secret Service, NYPD, and USDA—targeted illegal EBT skimming devices in New York City, uncovering clone machines and unlicensed card readers used to siphon funds meant for low-income indi-

SEI NEWS hospitals across North America, helping to provide critical treatments, equipment, and services to children and families in need.

The company emphasized that moments like these reflect its ongoing commitment to building stronger communities through charitable giving. Over the course of its 34-year partnership with Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, 7-Eleven has raised more than $200 million for the organization. Along with the Miracle Tournament & Celebration Dinner, fundraising efforts also include in-store campaigns at participating 7-Eleven, Speedway and Stripes stores.

Gulp Radio Taps Into the Power Of In-Store Moments

7-Eleven is building one of the largest commercial radio

viduals, reported AMNY. With $18 billion in nationwide losses linked to transnational crime groups, agents seized 14 devices across Brooklyn and Staten Island. • Walmart is revamping its brand image and digital strategy to attract wealthier consumers, launching a bold marketing campaign called “Who knew?” that highlights unexpected items like accordions and saunas, paired with a refreshed logo and upgraded app experience, reported Modern Retail. • A study published in the Journal of Urban Eco-

networks in the country with Gulp Radio, a program that blends smart audio tech with targeted retail messaging, reported C-Store Dive. Partnering with Qsic,

“SEI reported significant community engagement in 2024, including over $17 million raised through fundraising efforts for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.”

7-Eleven has already activated the system in over 4,000 stores, with plans to reach 12,000 by the end of July—months ahead of schedule. The setup is streamlined for scalability: plug-and-play smart speakers connect via ethernet, and decibel-tracking sensors ensure optimal volume.

Qsic’s tech can stream different

nomics finds that traffic congestion significantly increases fast food visits, particularly during the evening rush hour, as drivers opt for quicker meal solutions over time-consuming grocery shopping. • DHL, UPS, FedEx, and Walmart are adopting robotic systems like Boston Dynamics’ “Stretch” to automate the grueling, injury-prone task of unloading trucks—an area long considered a logistical frontier, reported the Wall Street Journal. With sensors, AI algorithms, and flexible

audio to different parts of the store, enabling highly localized and context-specific promotions, like beer ads near a cooler. With textto-voice AI driving ad creation, the platform offers both agility and granularity, and future updates promise to tap in-store transactional data for even sharper targeting.

Early performance data points to strategic potential. Short, music-free ads—lasting just 7 to 12 seconds and front-loading the product name—are outperforming traditional 30-second formats, especially for impulse-driven purchases. The system allows 7-Eleven to promote both thirdparty brands and its own offerings like Slurpee drinks and Big Bite hot dogs through the same highimpact channels. Ads run on Gulp Radio have shown an average sales lift of 5–9 percent, with some promotions, like a recent Slurpee push, hitting 11 percent. continued on page 56

grippers, these robots can nearly double human output, reduce labor costs, and address persistent staffing challenges. • Jones Soda Co. recently sold its cannabis beverage business, including the Mary Jones brand, to MJ Reg Disrupters LLC for $3 million. As part of the deal, Jones will collect potential licensing fees of $2.175 million over the next decade, allowing it to exit cannabis and refocus on its core soda, functional, and adult beverage offerings.

2025 ISSUE 3 AVANTI 55

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A car accident changed Will’s life forever, leaving him unable to walk. But with the support of Dell Children’s Medical Center, he found a new path.

Therapists helped him regain strength and embrace life in a wheelchair. Today, Will is a wheelchair basketball national champion, proving that nothing can hold him back. His story shows the amazing impact of Children’s ® Miracle Network Hospitals, Your donations can help more kids like Will thrive.

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100% of your donation supports your local member hospital.

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AVANTI 2025 ISSUE 3

Y

FOA

EVENTS contiued from page 58

West Coast FOA

Annual Charity Fun Shoot & Mini Trade Show Mike Raahauge Shooting Enterprises Corona, California October 16, 2025 Phone: 718-820-6555 or 714-924-8000

Central Florida FOA

San Diego FOA

Venue TBD December 5, 2025 Phone: 207-415-0924

Royal India - Miramar San Diego, California December 20, 2025 Phone: 619-713-2411

Christmas Party

Joe Saraceno FOA Holiday Party

Chicagoland FOA

Venue TBD December 6, 2025 Phone: 619-726-9016

Venue TBD November 13, 2025 Phone: 847-595-1596

Greater Los Angeles FOA

Metro New Jersey FOA

Diamond Palace Cuisine of India Diamond Bar, California December 6, 2025 Phone: 562-567-1660

Winter Expo

Annual Holiday Party The Grand Marquis Old Bridge, New Jersey November 22, 2025 Phone: 732-910-8854

Midwest FOA Holiday Show

Venue TBD December 3, 2025 Phone: 847-971-9457

Michigan FOA Holiday Party

Venue TBD December 4, 2025 Phone: 517-219-5288

Northern California FOA NorCal United Holiday Party (Central Valley FOA/ Greater Bay FOA/ Northern California FOA/ Sacramento Valley FOA) Venue TBD December 5, 2025 Phone: 707-344-6287

Holiday Party

West Coast FOA Holiday Party

Venue TBD December 12, 2025 Phone: 718-820-6555 or 714-924-8000

Columbia Pacific FOA Holiday Party

Venue TBD December 12, 2025 Phone: 503-998-5941

Keystone FOA Holiday Party

Venue TBD December 13, 2025 Phone: 609-353-7872

Rocky Mountain FOA

avantimag@ncasef.com

Southern California FOA Trade Show

Pasadena Convention Center Pasadena, California March 31, 2026 Phone: 818-357-5985

Golf Tournament

Pacific Palms Resort City of Industry, California April 1, 2026 Phone: 818-357-5985

Joe Saraceno FOA 3rd Annual Golf Tournament Brookside Golf Club Pasadena, California April 8, 2026 Phone: 619-726-9016

4th Annual Trade Show Santa Anita Park Arcadia, California April 9, 2026 Phone: 619-726-9016

Baltimore FOA 3rd Annual Golf Tournament TriState Trade Show Venue TBD April 22, 2026 Phone: 443-506-8380

Holiday Party

Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center Aurora, Colorado December 13, 2025 Phone: 719-661-1048

When is Your Event?

Send the details to:

Holiday Party

Northern California FOA

Charity Golf

Venue TBD April 23, 2026 Phone: 707-344-6287

South Nev/Las Vegas FOA Golf Tournament Revere Golf Club Henderson, Nevada May 6, 2026 Phone: 714-396-1003

Trade Show

Alexis Park Las Vegas Nevada May 7, 2026 Phone: 714-396-1003

San Fran/Monterey Bay FOA Golf Tournament Venue TBD May 12, 2026 Phone: 510-289-4948

Trade Show Venue TBD May 13, 2026

Phone: 510-289-4948

FOA Of Greater Los Angeles Trade Show

Ontario Convention Center Ontario, California May 20, 2026 Phone: 562-567-1660

Annual Golf Tournament Black Gold Golf Club Yorba Linda, California May 21, 2026 Phone: 562-567-1660

NorCal United Trade Show (Central Valley FOA/ Greater Bay FOA/ Northern California FOA/ Sacramento Valley FOA) Venue TBD April 22, 2026 Phone: 707-344-6287

2025 ISSUE 3 AVANTI 57

NCASEF BM EOA R D ETINGS

NCASEF Board meetings are scheduled one per quarter. For information on Board Meeting sponsorship opportunities, please contact the National Office at 855444-7711 or nationaloffice@ncasef.com

National Coalition Affiliate Meeting

National Coalition Affiliate Meeting

National Coalition Board Of Directors Meeting

National Coalition Board of Directors Meeting

Hyatt Regency Miami Miami, Florida November 11-12, 2025

Hyatt Regency Miami Miami, Florida November 13-14, 2025

FOA

Fairmont Olympic Hotel Seattle, Washington April 28-29, 2026

Fairmont Olympic Hotel Seattle, Washington April 30-May 1, 2026

EVENTS

Greater Oregon FOA

Keystone FOA

Michigan FOA

San Diego FOA

Pumpkin Ridge Golf Course North Plains, Oregon August 4, 2025 Phone: 503-516-3483

Live! Casino and Hotel Philadelphia, Pennsylvania August 12, 2025 Phone: 609-353-7872

Venue TBD September 4, 2025 Phone: 517-219-5288

Alesmith Brewing Company San Diego, California October 2, 2025 Phone: 619-713-2411

Golf Tournament

Trade Show

Pumpkin Ridge Golf Course North Plains, Oregon August 5, 2025 Phone: 503-516-3483

San Diego FOA Family Picnic/ Trade Show

Four Points by Sheraton (Pavilion) San Diego, California August 7, 2025 Phone: 619-713-2411

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AVANTI 2025 ISSUE 3

Trade Show

Trade Show

San Diego FOA

Metro New Jersey FOA

Del Mar Thoroughbred Club Del Mar, California August 22, 2025 Phone: 619-713-2411

Charleston Springs Golf Course Millstone, New Jersey September 16, 2025 Phone: 732-910-8854

Day At The Races

Greater Northwest FOA Annual Charity Golf Tournament

Harbour Pointe Golf Club Mukilteo, Washington August 28, 2025 Phone: 206-276-0226

Vendors Golf Outing

Annual Tradeshow Royal Albert’s Palace Fords, New Jersey September 17, 2025 Phone: 732-910-8854

Vendor Appreciation Day

Texas FOA Annual Trade Show Plano Event Center Plano, Texas October 7, 2025 Phone: 214-208-0992

Charity Golf Tournament

Heritage Ranch Golf Club McKinney, Texas October 8, 2025 214-208-0992

continued on page 57

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