The Search for the ‘Smartest Store in the World’

The world’s smartest convenience store is one that takes the best ideas from its surroundings, solves its biggest pain points and empowers its staff with the right decision-making tools at the right time, thus enhancing the customer experience.

That’s why NACS and Insight Research, together with Knowledge Partner Accenture and sponsors VenHub Global, Invenco Powered by Vontier and Plexor, are co-hosting the Smartest Store in the World contest, a worldwide search for retailers who are harnessing advanced analytics, artificial intelligence and emerging technologies to reimagine the store experience.

“The Smartest Store in the World competition celebrates global convenience retailers who are using AI and data to push the boundaries of what’s possible—and deliver real results across the retail value chain. I’m excited to see who steps forward to participate,” said Henry Armour, chairman emeritus and CEO of international at NACS.

“The competition highlights what is world class in retail right now. This isn't an award, it's a North Star for the future of the industry,” added Martin Baille, founder of MWB Advisory Ltd, a 30-year retail industry veteran and a judge in the Smartest Store competition.

Tech Today, Tomorrow and in the Future

Technology is evolving rapidly, especially in the age of AI. “There is a huge amount of investment going into retail technology, and we wanted to share how retailers were using technology in new ways, from driving better customer experiences to gaining productivity all the way through the value chain. It's going to change every aspect of how we do things,” said Dan Munford, CEO of Insight Research.

“By showcasing the ‘best of the best,’ we will help move the needle on industry development and drive progress, while recognizing and connecting those shaping the future of retail. This isn’t just about the technology itself; it’s about how it’s applied to solve real-world challenges,” added Armour.

Munford said he expects to see a range of entries, from autonomous stores operated entirely without humans, like those seen in Sweden or China, to those with sophisticated online ordering systems, AI-generated dynamic pricing, faster checkout systems or any number of cutting-edge in-store point solutions.

“The best leaders in retail understand that they need to look outside their organization, their locale and their channel to see who the first adopters of solutions are and what they can learn. Industry events and competitions like this showcase those ideas, and this is the time to engage to make sure you’re not too far behind the curve,” said Munford.

Entering the Smartest Store Competition

The 2026 Smartest Store in the World competition is now open to retailers worldwide (with supplier partners encouraged to support entries). Applications are due March 26, 2026 (enter here).

“We look forward to seeing which companies join this global competition and help our industry celebrate innovation with measurable results,” said Armour.

Winners will be announced live on June 17 at the NACS Convenience Summit Europe in Warsaw, Poland, on LinkedIn and on the Global Convenience website.