Convenience is a fast-growing food retail segment, where foodservice among the top performing c-store companies average 35% of their inside sales compared to the overall industry average of 27%, according to NACS State of the Industry data.
With this growth comes a hyper focus on safe food handling and food protection from the top down. Ask this: What’s at stake if a foodborne illness is linked to your brand?
Join your industry peers April 8 in Dallas for the 4th annual Food Safety Forum, which will be held in conjunction with the 2025 NACS State of the Industry Summit.
Here’s a preview of the forum’s discussions, led by convenience industry food safety experts:
-Welcome and Opening Remarks
Dr. Jay Ellingson, chief science officer, Kwik Trip Inc.
Jeremy Zenlea, vice president, health & safety, EG America
- Preparing for FSMA 204: FDA's Traceability Rule
Dr. Jennifer McEntire, founder, Food Safety Strategy LLC
Jon Cox, VP of retail foodservice, McLane Company Inc.
The FDA’s Food Traceability Rule takes effect on January 20, 2026. Our presenters will share what retailers need to do now to prepare and how the new rule will impact their operations, as well as highlight the requirements necessary for compliance.
- Utilizing Tech and Data to Improve Efficiencies
Jason Borror, director, food safety & quality assurance, NA, Circle K
Lee Hawkinson, head of global foodservice support, Circle K
Borror and Hawkinson will share how Circle K stores are investing in tech-driven tools like sensors and digital temperature monitoring to streamline food safety protocols, as well as optimize labor, reduce waste and deliver ROI that extends beyond food safety measures.
- Building Consumer Trust in Food Safety
Amy Costello, Director, food safety and quality assurance, Casey’s
With more retailers investing in sophisticated and high-quality foodservice operations, learn how you can build and maintain trust in your food program, beginning with food safety.
- From the Top: CEO Insights on Shaping Food Culture and Their Brands
Kevin Smartt, CEO and president, TXB Stores
Dr. Scott Zietlow, CEO, president and chairman, Kwik Trip Inc.
Two industry leaders with high-quality and high-level foodservice programs will talk about the importance of food safety, protecting their brands and empowering their teams to do the right thing.
Register now for the 2025 Food Safety Forum and NACS State of the Industry Summit.
If you haven’t participated in a NACS Food Safety Forum, here is a recap of last year’s event from the January issue of NACS Magazine.