AI, customer loyalty, ordering platforms and employee feedback took center stage. The National Retail Federation (NRF) held its annual conference and expo at the Javits Convention Center in New York City, January 12-14. 1: AI Everywhere AI, of course, was extremely present—like Toshiba’s MxP Vision Kiosk. Toshiba described it as an “innovative self-checkout kiosk that utilizes computer vision and AI to automatically identify items at checkout for a faster, more efficient and seamless shopping experience. Part of the new MxP portfolio, this solution offers simplified and accurate checkout for shoppers and opt-in biometric payment options to expedite the checkout experience.” During the “Retailers moving from vision to value with AI” education session, Carrie Tharp, VP of global solutions and industries at Google Cloud, discussed how AI is constantly evolving and changing how retailers can utilize it to connect with customers, enhance customer service and personalize shopping. “Generative AI will be…

The new administration charts a path toward greater energy exploration, less regulation. Following his inauguration on Monday, President Trump has declared a national energy emergency. The order was invoked under the National Emergencies Act and, according to The Hill, directs the heads of federal agencies “to identify any emergency authorities they may have to facilitate the production or processing of energy.” The order also includes other directives, including “telling the head of the agency to consider issuing emergency fuel waivers that allow for the year-round sale of gasoline that contains high ethanol content,” The Hill reported. Another executive order, “Unleashing American Energy”, contains additional energy-related policy directions. Among them: During his inaugural address Trump said, “America will be a manufacturing nation once again, and we have something that no other manufacturing nation will ever have—the largest amount of oil and gas of any country on Earth and we are going to use it.…

Victoria will cap and lock fuel price rises in a cost-of-living shake up by the Allan Labor Government to help level the playing field between multinational fuel companies and Victorian families. Premier Jacinta Allan and Minister for Consumer Affairs Nick Staikos met with tradies and apprentices atVictoria University Werribee campus today to announce the Government’s Fair Fuel Plan, which will require fuel companies to publicly report their fuel price changes the day before they are in effect – andlock in those prices for 24 hours. Consumers know fuel prices fluctuate all the time – sometimes multiple times a day. Australian Competition and Consumer Commission data also shows that in 2023, Melbourne motorists could have saved up to $333 a year from filling up at the lowest point of fuel price cycles by securing the best deal. The Fair Fuel Plan won’t change everything, but it’s one extra tool at families’…

Coca-Cola Europacific Partners (CCEP) Australia has been recognised by the Top Employers Institute as a ‘top employer’ in Australia for 2025. The Top Employers Institute program certifies organisations based on the participation and results of its HR Best Practices Survey. The comprehensive survey consisting of 20 topics, including people strategy, work environment, talent acquisition, learning, diversity, equity and inclusion, wellbeing and more. CCEP has been recognised for its achievements in fostering a workplace culture centred around purpose and values, ethics and integrity, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. CCEP Australia Vice President of People and Culture Sally Byrne says the company is extremely proud to have built a culture where its employees feel respected and empowered, with its recent recognition a privilege. “Cultivating a strong sense of connection and community – where everyone feels welcome to be themselves, be valued and belong – not only supports individual performance, but also that of…

As we move into 2025, convenience retailers must continue to remain agile, embracing innovation and technology while staying true to the communities they serve, writes Theo Foukkare, CEO of the Australian Association of Convenience Stores (AACS). As 2025 approaches, Australia’s convenience industry stands at a pivotal moment. Recent years have shown the importance of adaptability in navigating a rapidly changing landscape. The year ahead demands resilience and innovation to tackle technological advancements, regulatory demands, and shifting consumer expectations. Here is what lies ahead for convenience retailers and how they can seize these opportunities. Driving Efficiency with AI and AutomationAI is set to revolutionise operational efficiency in 2025. Automated inventory management, predictive analytics, and smarter restocking solutions will optimise stock levels, reduce waste, and enhance forecasting. With consumers expecting real-time product availability, AI will help retailers respond quickly to changing demands. By adopting AI and automation, retailers can streamline operations and…