JOIN US for the PACEshow
in JANUARY 2026!
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2026 PACEshow
ATTENDEE SCHEDULE AT-A-GLANCE
7:30 AM - 4:00 PM
REGISTRATION OPEN
KC Convention Center, Lobby 2300
7:00 AM - 8:30 AM
Time Available for "On Your Own" Networking & Meetings
THIS IS AN EXCELLENT OPPORTUNITY FOR THE MAJOR BRANDS AND OTHER PACEshow EXHIBITORS TO HOST BUSINESS AND SOCIAL MEETINGS
8:30 AM - 11:00 AM
INDUSTRY EDUCATION EVENT
Location = KC Convention Center, Room 2502
Fire Up Your C-Store Brand With AI
Ernie Harker, Keynote Speaker
Most c-stores don’t have a strong differential brand nor know how to leverage AI to grow their business. Ernie Harker - the creative force who transformed Maverik from a dusty, western chain into a $3,000,000,000 outdoor adventure brand - knows what actually makes c-stores unforgettable. And now, he’s bringing the same branding genius to AI, showing leaders how to spark ideas, torch time-wasters, and fuel measurable growth.
Take aways you will leave with:
• A simple framework to uncover and amplify your store’s true brand spark.
• Live AI demonstrations that cut costs, save time, and create marketing magic.
• How to turn employees into brand ambassadors and customers into raving fans.
• A clear playbook for using AI to stand out without losing the human touch.
CLICK HERE to watch a short video from Ernie!
Unlocking the Power of Data for Smaller Retailers
Mike Wilson, Chief Operating Officer, Cubby's Inc.
Data-driven decisions aren't just for the big players. This presentation is tailored for small operators looking to harness the power of data analytics without an in-house data team. Learn where to find meaningful data, how to interpret it, and - most importantly - how to turn it into actionable insights. Whether you're running a single location or managing a small team, you'll walk away with practical tools and strategies to make smarter, faster business decisions with the data already at your fingertips.
The Case for Biodiesel Blends
Matt Amick, Director of Market Development, Missouri Soybean Association & Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council. Matt also serves as the Executive Director for the Biodiesel Coalition of Missouri.
11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
PACEshow FLOOR OPEN
KC Convention Center, Bartle Hall E
5:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Time Available for "On Your Own" Networking & Meetings
THIS IS AN EXCELLENT OPPORTUNITY FOR THE MAJOR BRANDS AND OTHER PACEshow EXHIBITORS TO HOST BUSINESS AND SOCIAL MEETINGS
Evening
OPEN FOR VENDOR GATHERINGS
The schedule for the Evening Is Open for Vendor-Sponsored Gatherings
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
INDUSTRY BREAKFAST
KC Loews Hotel - Neptune Ballroom E
Sponsored By Federated Insurance
Unmasking Commercial Insurance Fraud: Risks, Red Flags, and Remedies
Insurance fraud is an economic crime that we all pay for. In fact, insurance fraud costs the U.S. over $300 Billion annually according to a Coalition Against Insurance Fraud study. The need for consumers, business owners, and insurance companies to stay ahead of the sophisticated bad actors has never been greater. Please join Federated at the PACE convention where we will discuss fraud and how you can better protect you and your business.
9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
ASSOCIATION MEETINGS
MPCA - KC Loews Hotel - Neptune Ballroom E
MPCA will be holding both the Annual General meeting & a Board Meeting
FUEL TRUE - KC Loews Hotel - Leadership Room
NPCA - KC Loews Hotel - Mermaid B Room
OPMCA - KC Loews Hotel - Pomona Room