CHICAGO, Illinois — The energy inside McCormick Place was electric this fall as NACS Show 2025 brought together thousands of professionals from the convenience and fuel retailing industries. From Oct. 14-17, industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators filled the halls of Chicago’s convention center to exchange ideas, showcase new products, and explore the next era of how people eat, shop, and refuel on the go.
Organized by the National Association of Convenience Stores (NACS), the annual event is regarded as the world’s premier stage for innovation in convenience and fuel retail. This year, its focus expanded even further, spotlighting how technology, sustainability, and customer experience are transforming what “convenience” truly means.
A cornerstone of innovation
The expo floor spanned more than 400,000 square feet, divided into five zones: Facility Development & Store Operations, Food Equipment & Foodservice Programs, Fuel Equipment & Services, In-Store Merchandise, and Technology. Each section buzzed with activity, showcasing everything from next-generation beverage machines and snack launches to AI-powered automation systems and digital payment solutions.
One of the most anticipated features, the Cool New Products Preview Room, once again drew crowds of buyers, distributors, and media. Attendees used digital scanners to create personalized “shopping lists” of innovations to revisit once the main show floor opened.
Where business meets inspiration
Beyond the product showcases, NACS Show 2025 emphasized education and connection. Dozens of seminars and workshops explored the future of convenience retail — from AI-driven analytics and EV charging infrastructure to sustainable packaging and emerging consumer trends.
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Panel discussions reflected how evolving lifestyles — from health-conscious snacking to mobile-first loyalty programs — are blurring the lines between traditional convenience stores and modern retail hubs. Speakers encouraged participants to view the store of the future as “a community hub built on connection and trust.”
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A global stage for partnerships
The show’s international scope was unmistakable, with exhibitors and visitors from over 70 countries transforming the event into a global hub for collaboration. Startups connected with distributors, established brands formed partnerships with tech companies, and innovators introduced solutions to modernize every corner of the retail landscape.
The week’s highlight was the Kick-Off Party on October 14, where live music and lively networking reflected a sense of optimism about the industry’s next chapter.
The future of convenience
If one theme defined this year’s NACS Show, it was transformation. Retailers are reimagining “convenience” not just as speed or price, but as connection, personalization, and purpose.
From digital transformation and cleaner energy to health-focused product innovation, the industry is investing in what consumers now value most — accessibility, authenticity, and trust. Here were some of the featured exhibitors:
Liquid I.V.
A hydration-aid brand known for its Cellular Transport Technology (CTT), which promotes faster water absorption through an optimized balance of electrolytes and carbohydrates. Founded in 2012 and acquired by Unilever in 2020, Liquid I.V. has expanded globally with products such as the Hydration Multiplier, Immune Support, and Energy formulas.
Tastelli
a Chicago-based brand offering 10-calorie, drinkable jelly snacks made from konjac root. Founded by JK and partners, the vegan, zero-sugar pouches are boosted with collagen, antioxidants, and vitamin C, and come in refreshing flavors like Mango Pineapple, Apple Green Grape, Peach, and Lychee.
Wang
Known for its authentic Korean-style noodles, Wang’s range includes fresh udon, jajang (black bean), and vermicelli noodles. With U.S. distribution based in California, Wang caters to growing demand for premium, ready-to-cook Asian staples.
Koia
A plant-based protein drink brand founded in Chicago in 2014 by Maya French, Dustin Baker, and Chris Fanucchi. Koia offers low-sugar, dairy-free protein shakes in flavors like Vanilla Bean and Chocolate Brownie, and is available at Target, Whole Foods, and online retailers nationwide.
Oberto Snacks
Founded in 1918 in Seattle, Oberto remains one of America’s most trusted names in high-protein snacks, from beef jerky to smoked sausages. Now owned by Premium Brand Holdings, the company continues to emphasize “better-for-you” formulations and quality craftsmanship.
Takis
Manufactured by Barcel USA (a division of Grupo Bimbo), Takis is the fiery rolled tortilla chip brand known for bold flavors like Fuego. Its “Face the Intensity” slogan has become a cultural touchstone among Gen Z snackers.
Like Air
A family-founded brand from New Jersey producing puffed corn snacks that are gluten-free, non-GMO, and nut-free. With playful flavors such as Pancake and Cinnamon Bun, Like Air markets itself as “better than popcorn” — a light, allergen-friendly snack for all ages.
OLIPOP
A functional soda alternative high in fiber and prebiotics and low in sugar (2–5 g per can). Founded in California by Ben Goodwin and David Lester, OLIPOP has grown into a billion-dollar brand redefining the beverage landscape with nostalgic flavors like Root Beer and Vintage Cola.
Celsius
Based in Boca Raton, Florida, Celsius Holdings continues to dominate the fitness energy drink category with sugar-free, metabolism-boosting beverages. Its rise underscores the booming “better-for-you” energy market.
Electrolit
Originally developed in Mexico in 1950 as a medical rehydration drink, Electrolit is now a major global hydration brand. With a $400 million U.S. production facility underway in Texas, it’s aiming for a top-three spot in the American sports drink market.
Champs Chicken
Founded in 1999 in Missouri, Champs Chicken operates over 400 locations nationwide, offering double-breaded fried chicken through grocery and convenience store partnerships. Its model blends fast food quality with small-town authenticity.
Pickle Juice
Founded in 2001 in Texas, the Pickle Juice Company produces an electrolyte-rich sports beverage designed to stop muscle cramps. USDA Organic and sugar-free, it’s marketed as having “10× the electrolytes of common sports drinks.”
This year’s NACS Show reaffirmed the industry’s commitment to innovation, wellness, and sustainability. From plant-based proteins to clean-label hydration and automation, the future of convenience retail is not only faster — it’s smarter, healthier, and more connected than ever.
