Young executives are playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of the convenience store industry. While drawing on the experience and insights of previous generations, these emerging leaders are driving innovation and implementing forward-thinking solutions that are redefining operations, customer experience and long-term growth across the c-store landscape.
At this year’s CStore Connections conference, burgeoning professionals from all corners of the industry gathered to learn, connect and share their unique perspectives.
The event featured a special recognition of the 2025 40 Under 40 Leaders to Watch — an annual honor conducted by CStore Decisions that stretches back to 2015.
CStore Decisions sat down with some of this year’s 40 Under 40 Leaders to Watch to hear about their unique takeaways and highlights that they brought back to their respective organizations.
“I enjoyed hearing what other companies are working on and dealing with, and how it relates to what we are dealing with as well,” said Erin Stapleton, IT product manager, RaceTrac. “I heard some great ideas about merchandising items in our stores (signage above areas, focusing on trends like dirty sodas, lockers for hot food pick ups, etc.) and realized I would like to learn more about what technologies and processes more tangibly touch my role to ensure I know the full impact of decisions that are made.”
Emily Jenkins, IT administrator for Southwest Georgia Oil Co., noted that a major takeaway for her was “how quickly innovation is shaping the industry and the importance of staying adaptable.”
“One major theme was how AI is changing the way stores approach loyalty programs and back-office procedures, making operations more efficient and personalized,” she continued. “I’m bringing back a strong focus on exploring ways to implement artificial intelligence into our day-to-day operations to help streamline processes and better serve our customers.”
When asked what stood out to them about the industry at large, many young executives cited collaboration and adaptability as key factors driving the industry forward.
“As a young executive, the conference showed me that the c-store industry is highly collaborative — everyone is working toward the same goal and genuinely wants to help each other succeed,” Jenkins noted. “What stood out most was how open people were to sharing insights and experiences. It also reinforced that this industry is constantly evolving with new ideas, products and strategies that are always emerging, so there’s always something new to learn.”
This was a key theme when young executives were asked specifically about the benefits of the CStore Connections conference.
“What stood out the most was the ability to build camaraderie amongst peers,” said Charlyse Davis, south regional manager, Louisiana Truck Stop and Gaming. “It is really special when we can build relationships where we can share, build trust and connect. It encourages young executives like me to be confident in my role because of the support system formed within this conference.”
“The conference was very insightful and engaging, and it provided a great opportunity to learn from others in the industry,” Jenkins added. “I was able to meet several new people in a short time frame and start building lasting relationships. Those connections, along with the shared knowledge, made the experience especially valuable.”
“I thought the level of networking available was phenomenal, and the event was put on very well,” said Madison Everett, director of category management for packaged beverage, alcohol and dairy. “(I was) highly impressed. Looking forward to attending another one in the future.”
For young executives looking to network with like-minded peers and join in on the collaboration, they are invited to take a look at the CStore Momentum agenda HERE. The conference, hosted this year by Chestnut Market, is specifically geared toward young professionals and offers an open format for education, idea sharing and countless networking opportunities.
