CONVENIENCE INNOVATION CHALLENGE – SHAPING THE FUTURE

Jeff Rogut

AACS is seeking the fresh, innovative perspective of students from selected universities around Australia as part of the inaugural ‘AACS / CCA Convenience Innovation Challenge’, a joint initiative of the Australasian Association of Convenience Stores (AACS) and Coca Cola Amatil (CCA). Up for grabs is a major prize of $2,000, two runners-up prizes of $1,000 each and the opportunity for students to be exposed to a dynamic industry.

AACS already has the popular and long running ‘Peter Jowett scholarship award’ for both retailers and suppliers already working in the Convenience industry. This is another opportunity to tap into the creativity of a different group of Australians.

The brainchild of the AACS and generously supported by CCA, the focus on innovation for the competition is designed to counter the challenges the convenience industry faces, such as increased power of the major supermarkets, rising labour and utility costs and the difficult trading conditions for retailers generally.

The AACS views innovation as a pillar for the future and we recognise that there are many innovative thinker studying in our universities. This competition is our way of tapping into the fresh, unencumbered, innovative ideas of young people to help our industry position itself for tomorrow.

“Convenience stores are a staple in Australian life, our doors are always open and in many cases we’re the life support system for the local community. Now we are opening our doors to an even more innovative future,” explained AACS Chief Executive Officer Jeff Rogut.

“Innovation is about applying new ideas to create value by improving what you do and how you do it. We are excited to see what students come up with and there is always the chance for retailers, suppliers or others in the industry to implement new ideas. The possibilities are limitless and the rewards for the most innovative ideas are substantial,” he said.

The two best entries from each participating university, to be decided internally by university staff, will proceed to the final to be judged by the AACS. Submissions are due by 30 June 2013 with the winners to be announced at an awards event to be planned for September.

Detailed information packs are being sent to selected universities during March 2013.

“We don’t want people just to think outside the box, we want them to re-invent it. No element or component of the convenience industry is off limits and the more innovative and practical the idea or concept, the better,” Mr Rogut said.