Eye on the future
More than 220 delegates from Canada's largest fuel retailing brands gathered at the Sheraton Centre in downtown Toronto from April 10-12 for the 2017 Canadian Fuel Marketing Conference, hosted by the Canadian Independent Petroleum Marketers Association (CIPMA).
The three-day annual conference is the number one networking event for the fuel marketing industry, and features informative guest speakers and workshops that cover the most relevant issues in the industry.
Given the current political climate in the U.S. and Canada's upcoming 150th anniversary, the conference's overarching theme focused on the past, present and future of the fuel marketing industry and the larger role it plays in the North American economy.
The event featured a range of dynamic, high-profile experts in their respective fields, including renowned National Post columnist Andrew Coyne, public opinion pollster Nik Nanos and Executive Director of the Fuels Institute John Eichberger. Attendees gained insight into key topics such as Canadian public opinion on key energy and environmental policies and what it means for government and industry, how politics in the U.S. and Mexico will affect the Canadian fuel market in the years to come, and the realities surrounding the electric and autonomous vehicles market.
"The record-setting attendance at this year's conference is not only a testament to the valuable information and opportunities it provides, but also to the unprecedented growth of the Canadian fuel marketing sector," said Tricia Anderson, President and CEO, CIPMA.
Two post-conference workshops also delved into the effects of Ontario's cap and trade system on businesses, and the opportunities for independent fuel markets in the clean fuels future.
As the voice of Canada's independent petroleum marketing sector representing more than 36% of all fuel sold in Canada, CIPMA hosts several events throughout the year to bring decision-makers together to help shape Canada's fuelling future.
In addition to its pivotal role in the industry, one of CIPMA's main priorities is advocacy, ensuring members have a voice on important issues at the municipal, provincial and federal levels of government.
"We have made great strides in advancing the fuel marketing sector," said Anderson. "Our members are always aware of current and impending legislation, major market and regulatory trends, and valuable networking events such as our annual fuel conference."
To stay up to date on upcoming CIPMA events, check out their website at www.cipma.org and follow them on Twitter @CIPMAssoc.