By Keith Harlow

ALEXANDRIA, Va.—NACS has upgraded its membership renewal process for 2022, and it’s easier than ever to stay involved with NACS. Last November, we rolled out a new Association Management Database (AMS), and one of the first campaigns that changed with the new AMS was how we process membership renewals.

Rather than mailing paper forms, the retail membership team is relying on members to access their account at www.convenience.org/renew to process their company’s renewal for 2022. Many companies have already adapted to the new technology and renewed for 2022. This membership renewal how-to guide shows you how you can stay a member of NACS in two quick steps.

For those members who are unaware of the new process or need help setting up your account, we are here to help. Please contact our membership team at MAXYourNACS@convenience.org.

Here’s a look back at 2021, what you can expect from NACS this year, and why a NACS membership is an essential part of your business.

From a legislative perspective, NACS has been on top of all the issues that matter to you. From the passing of the bipartisan infrastructure bill to the withdrawal of the OSHA vaccine mandate, we highlight all of NACS’ government relations initiatives last year in the NACS Magazine article “Inside Washington: 2021 Legislative Wins.” Your continued engagement and guidance will help NACS launch into the future of convenience.

NACS continues to work toward a more secure process for age verification. In 2021, NACS and Conexxus launched TruAge™, a digital age-verification platform designed to create a better experience for both retailers and manufacturers of age-restricted products. Reynolds American recently announced its support of TruAge™, joining Altria Group Distribution Company, R.J. Reynolds Vapor Company, Juul Labs, Anheuser-Busch and Molson Coors Beverage Company, plus more than 130 retail companies that represent 22,000-plus convenience store locations in the United States.

Last fall, with the support of industry partners, we hosted the NACS Show in Chicago, our first in-person show since 2019. In 2022, we are planning for the NACS Human Resources Forum (March 21-23), NACS State of the Industry Summit, (April 12-14) and all NACS Executive Education Programs to be held as in-person events.

NACS has been working hard to strengthen the technology that supports the association. The new AMS allows NACS members and potential members to better manage their accounts, purchase products and register for events. Customers can customize the topics and information that is most relevant to their function and begin to maximize their own NACS experience.

The success of the new system hinges on the adaptability of its users, both internal (staff) and external (customers). This requires patience and education on the new processes designed to deliver a more robust customer experience.

What a year it’s been for the industry. We thank our NACS members for giving us the opportunity to serve your companies over the past year. NACS recognizes that our members have been navigating a pandemic, supply-chain issues and demanding economic pressures. We appreciate your support as members—you are the lifeblood of our organization.

Keith Harlow is the director of retail membership for NACS. He can be reached at kharlow@convenience.org.