Smoke Break Meet the THC Beverage Boom

The back bar is evolving rapidly as new nicotine products, alternative consumables, and emerging categories compete for limited space. In this session, industry experts will explore how retailers can strategically allocate back bar space across inhalable products, oral nicotine, traditional tobacco, and emerging categories like THC and other alternatives. Attendees will gain practical insights on merchandising different back bar sizes, balancing profitability with security concerns, and preparing for what the future of the category might look like.

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,