The 2024 NACS Convenience Show in Las Vegas brought together convenience category leaders from across the supply chain to talk trends and showcase innovations.
We saw a broad range of products and solutions on display, but what grabbed our attention most were the fresh approaches to packaging design and supply chain management.
Supplier Engagement: A Look Into Expanding Partnerships
One of the best parts of industry shows is the dedicated time we get to spend with our suppliers, including big names like Keurig Dr. Pepper, Black Rifle Coffee, and C4 Energy. These interactions give us a peak behind the curtain, insight into the future strategies, and upcoming product launches.
Our goal? To deepen existing relationships and identify new avenues for collaboration. The show provided the perfect opportunity to explore how both established and emerging brands are navigating the evolving convenience landscape.
Nutribolt’s Clear Packaging: A Bold Move in Product Display
One innovation that sparked a lot of convention-floor conversation was Nutribolt’s decision to adopt innovative packaging for their ICE product line.
It’s no secret that consumers often opt for familiar brands when grabbing a drink. But other times they make quick decisions based on visual appeal. Nutribolt’s C4 is betting on the power of change — literally. The can changes to blue when cold, offering a more visually interesting experience for consumers.
The move reminds our team of Coors’ iconic blue can, which changed color based on temperature. Nutribolt’s fresh take? They’re betting on the health-conscious consumer’s desire to know exactly what they’re purchasing.
Overcoming Staffing and Inventory Hurdles
Like many industries, convenience stores are still grappling with the ripple effects of 2020. Staffing shortages and supply chain challenges remain top of mind for store operators. And with the industry’s reliance on in-demand workers, retaining talent remains an uphill battle. Additionally, the scarcity of materials like aluminum and plastics is contributing to frequent out-of-stock conditions.
While the Tactiq tech can’t impact natural scarcity conditions, GlobalWorx does alleviate DSD communications painpoints. By automating out-of-stock alerts and service related supplier communications, Tactiq is making it easier for convenience store operators to keep up with demand.
Tech Innovation: The Future of Inventory Management
One of the standout innovations at this year’s show was real-time, automated inventory tracking technology. Imagine scanning products at the back door and instantly having updated inventory numbers in your system — it’s a game-changer for retailers, particularly for smaller, independent stores that often struggle with manual inventory management.
An industry leader told us that inventory management continues to be a major problem. From a diversifying product offering to staffing shortages it is becoming increasingly difficult to manage backroom and on-shelf inventory. Customer needs are constantly changing and it’s more important now more than ever to offer the latest innovation and have it properly stocked.
Rising Stars and Strategic Marketing
In a crowded and highly competitive beverage market, brands with calculated marketing strategies and substantial funding are gaining the upper hand.
Lucky Energy, an up-and-coming energy drink brand that has recently secured $12 million in funding, made waves at the show with a compelling brand story. Founded by Richard Laver, Lucky Energy started off as “Lucky Fck,” with a rebellious brand message stemming from defying the odds.
Richard, a survivor of a tragic plane crash that took the lives of 136 passengers, used his experience to build a brand that encourages others to embrace the risks in life and seize every opportunity. Their rebranding from “Lucky Fck” to “Lucky Energy” reflects the company’s push to reach a wider audience while staying true to its edgy origins.
This story of perseverance and their approach to branding resonated strongly with attendees, who saw it as the brand’s dedication to authenticity in storytelling.
Alongside them, Liquid Death continues to capture attention with its creative, unconventional campaigns and chaos packaging, which are disrupting the beverage industry’s traditional marketing playbook.
Overall, we’re seeing an industry in motion with collaboration and innovation. And when we bridge our industry expertise and connections across our clients’ supply chain, that’s when we all win retail.
