Behind the Counter and Ahead of the Curve

Great merchandising meets customers where they are. This session dives into how retailers can align product assortment, promotions, and displays with key seasonal moments to drive engagement and sales. Learn how to create compelling in-store experiences that stand out, stay fresh, and deliver results.

Rutter's

Philip Santini

Sr. Director of Food Service & Bar Strategy

RaceTrac, Inc.

Anna Kjerrumgaard

Director, Category Management- Center Store

Can tobacco and loyalty programs work together, and what does it take to make them successful? This session explores how retailers are using loyalty strategies, technology, and customer data to drive engagement, measure ROI, and create meaningful sales lift across tobacco and other key categories. Attendees will learn what is needed from the tech stack, how participating retailers compare to non-participants, and ways to evolve loyalty programs beyond traditional discounts. Through case studies and real-world lessons learned, the session will highlight practical strategies, common challenges,

Category management decisions can make—or break—store performance. In this session, retailers will share real-world case studies highlighting both successful strategies and lessons learned when optimizing planograms, store layouts, and product assortment. Attendees will explore how data, AI, and emerging tools like computer vision can improve demand planning, reduce out-of-stocks, and maximize space productivity—while also understanding the costs, ROI, and practical considerations for operators of all sizes.

Relex Solutions

Patrick O'Mara

Director of Solution Principals