Sometimes serendipity is the key to nondues revenue. NACS—The Association for Convenience & Fuel Retailing began in 1961, sustained like many trade associations by member dues. At that time, convenience stores were not the staple of shoppers' routines that they are today, and the industry was an afterthought in suppliers' minds, said Jeff Lenard, vice president of strategic industry initiatives. To raise the industry profile, the group hosted its first expo in 1973. "The idea that first year was to break even, to spend as much as possible to deliver value," Lenard said. "The object was to show exhibitors what a great channel we were. It was not intended to be the… Read More