General Session with Keynote Speaker Location: Tate Ballroom, Vineyard Tower
Kick off McLane Engage with a look at how McLane is evolving to better serve customers. Hear from Vito Maurici and Michelle Patterson on our customer-first approach, progress since last year, and how investments in technology and innovation are shaping what’s next. Then, hear from keynote speaker Sol Rashidi as she shares:
AI in the C-Store Industry: What’s Actually Working (and What’s Not) Every industry is experimenting with AI—but only a few are getting it right. This session brings an industry-specific lens to AI adoption, highlighting real-world use cases, measurable outcomes, and hard-earned lessons. From early wins to costly missteps, you’ll gain clarity on where AI delivers value today and how to prioritize investments that drive competitive advantage.
Speakers:
Vito Maurici, Chief Customer Experience Officer, McLane Michelle Patterson, VP, Marketing & Communications, McLane Sol Rashidi, World’s First Chief AI Officer
Sponsored By:
6:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Sponsor Showcase & Reception Location: Sponsor Pavilion, Longhorn Exhibition Hall Casual networking with cocktails and hors d'oeuvres. Sponsors will be at their booths previewing their latest products. All attendees welcome.
Wednesday, August 26
Customer Experience Day: Learn, Connect, Order
7:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Registration
Location: Longhorn Exhibition Hall
7:00 AM - 8:00 AM
Optional Morning Activity: Chose one experience to start your day — space is limited for each activity. Puppy Yoga Experience Location: TBD Enjoy a light, beginner-friendly stretch session with playful rescue puppies. No experience needed—just stop by and unwind. Had a big night? Recharge with a Liquid I.V., courtesy of our sponsor.
Sponsored By:
Wellness Rise & Run Location: Meet at the trail outside of Relache Spa Start your day with an energizing group run alongside fellow attendees.
Sponsored By:
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM
Breakfast & Networking Location: Tate Ballroom, Vineyard Tower Start the day with informal networking over breakfast.
8:30–9:15 AM | The Future is Now: Retail Trends, Strategies, and What Comes Next The retail industry is evolving at a rapid pace. In the midst of constant change, capturing the heart, attention, and wallet of customers is critical for retailers to remain relevant. In this session, Sean Luce and Jacob Roinas address the current state of the industry as a catalyst for action and bring to life the strategies McLane has built for you to win.
Speakers: Jacob Roinas, SVP, Merchandising & Procurement, McLane Sean Luce, VP, Sales, Military and Convenience, McLane
9:15–10:00 AM | From Data to Delivery – McLane’s Digital Supply Chain at Work Join us for a forward-looking session focused on how McLane is investing in technology and AI to better serve our customers, suppliers, and teammates. This session will highlight key initiatives and product enhancements currently underway or launching soon—designed to simplify how we do business, improve transparency and insights, and create more connected, seamless experiences across the McLane ecosystem. Learn how these innovations are positioning America’s most beloved brands for growth and long-term success, while reinforcing McLane’s commitment to being an agile, trusted partner in a rapidly evolving marketplace.
Speakers: Tanya Coutray, VP, CIDO Retail, McLane Sid Kulkarni, VP, Data & AI, McLane Yasaswi Pulavarti, VP, Customer Care, McLane Taylor Skinner, Market Director, McLane
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Engage Expo: Discover, Connect, Order Location: Longhorn Exhibition Hall Meet with suppliers, explore new products, and place orders directly on the floor.
12:00 pM - 1:30 PM
Networking Lunch Location: Dining Pavilion, Longhorn Exhibition Hall Located on the Expo floor in the back left dining area — grab a bite and stay in the action!
6:00 pM - 9:00 PM
Engage Celebration: Party & Concert Location: Glass Cactus at Gaylord Texan Celebrate the day with a high-energy evening sponsored by Hershey, featuring a live DJ set followed by a performance from Back in Black, the premier AC/DC tribute band.
