Leger's Lisa Covens to discuss economic confidence and what it means for convenience retail at the 2026 Convenience U CARWACS Show C-Store IQ Conference
Lisa Covens, senior vice-president of Leger, returns to the C-store IQ Conference stage on Day 2 of The Convenience U CARWACS Show at the Toronto Congress Centre March 11, 2026.
In this all-new 2026 briefing, Covens will unveil timely, fresh-from-the-field data capturing how consumers are navigating economic uncertainty and how those behaviours are reshaping the convenience and fuel channel in real time.
The Convenience Store News Canada team is pleased to be curating two mornings of exciting conference content for Canada’s largest and best-attended convenience, gas and car wash event—on March 10-11, 2026.
This two-morning conference is designed to provide valuable content and expert insight to help leaders and operators position their businesses for success. In addition to an exclusive preview of the 2026 C-store IQ National Shopper Study, expect marquee keynotes, as well as engaging expert advice, research and panels covering everything from beverage alcohol to security, the economy and consumer insights.
SESSION DETAILS
Reality check: Economic confidence and convenience retail
In a year marked by rising costs, fluctuating confidence and rapid shifts in household spending, understanding how Canadians feel about their financial future is no longer optional—it’s essential. In this all-new 2026 briefing, Covens unveils timely, fresh-from-the-field data capturing how consumers are navigating economic uncertainty and how those behaviours are reshaping the convenience and fuel channel in real time. This session goes beyond headlines to uncover valuable, up-to-the-minute insights, as well as opportunities for retailers and manufacturers to adapt, differentiate and win in a price-sensitive market.
Why attend: Built for operators, manufacturers, category managers and C-suite executives, this data-driven session delivers actionable intelligence to help businesses stay competitive, forecast more effectively and sharpen strategic plans.
AGENDA + SPEAKERS
2026 event highlights
New location: The Toronto Congress Centre
C-store IQ Conference: Canada’s convenience and fuel industry is entering a new era—one defined by innovation, agility and opportunity. The 2026 C-store IQ Conference brings together national leaders, disruptors and decision makers to explore the big issues, as well as categories, technologies, trends and strategies driving growth in a rapidly evolving retail landscape. Over two mornings of high-impact keynotes, expert panels and collaborative discussions, attendees will gain the insights, tools and inspiration to navigate change, harness innovation and position their businesses for success in 2026 and beyond. *Note, space is limited: Register today.
Trade Show: Find everything you need to run your business, from the latest snacks to technology and more. This is a unique opportunity to meet with key vendors, suppliers and experts all under one roof from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. both days.
BevAlc Alley: Sample beer, wine, cider and RTD products while connecting with suppliers to discuss innovations and opportunities, plus, the latest age-verification solution providers in this special section on the Trade Show floor.
Grab-and-Go Pavillion: Discover all things foodservice, from equipment to packaging, display, food favourites and product—all in one essential section.
Industry Dinner: Join your peers on March 10th at 5:00 p.m. for a cocktail reception, followed by dinner. New this year, the must-attend event will feature the 2026 Future Leaders in Convenience + Car Wash Awards presentation. Tickets on sale now.
Future Leaders in Convenience + Car Wash Awards: Be there when the industry comes together to celebrate the FLICC winners from across Canada during the Industry Dinner on Day 1 of the show. Winners will be called to the stage to receive their awards and be photographed.
Car Wash Education: The Canadian Car Wash Association is presenting an informative morning of insights and sessions designed to help car wash operators maximize results, plus don’t miss the annual Car Wash Tour.
Which package is right for you?
Best deal! Don’t miss a thing with the Two-Day All Access Pass: $325
Two-morning (March 10 and 11) C-store IQ Conference
Breakfast and lunch both days
Two days on the Trade Show floor
Industry Dinner, which includes the Future Leaders in Convenience + Car Wash Awards
Day 1 All Access Pass: $225
March 10 C-store IQ Conference
Breakfast and lunch
March 10 on the Trade Show floor
Industry Dinner, which includes the Future Leaders in Convenience + Car Wash Awards
Day 1 and Day 2 Education and Trade Show Pass: $225
Two-morning C-store IQ Conference
Breakfast and lunch both days
Two days on the Trade Show floor
Day 1 or Day 2 Education and Trade Show Pass: $125
One morning of the C-store IQ Conference
Breakfast and lunch on selected day
One day on the Trade Show floor
Trade Show only
Free for retailers, convenience, gas and car wash owners, operators and head office employees
$199 for manufacturers and suppliers
Industry Dinner, featuring the 2026 Future Leaders in Convenience + Car Wash Awards
Single ticket: $125
Table of 8: $850
