As the Supplier Board chairman, what does NACS political engagement mean to you, and what benefits have you experienced from being politically engaged?

There has been, is currently and will continue to be a significant amount of regulatory uncertainty that dramatically impacts the convenience retail and fuel industry. Without the political engagement of NACS and its members (retailers and suppliers alike), this industry would be at a significant disadvantage to compete and grow. The diversity of issues that we unite on as “one voice” and then educate our government officials on, ensures our retail members both large and small are on an equal playing field with competing channels and are well positioned to serve the 50% of the U.S. population that walks into a convenience store every day. As far as benefits I’ve experienced, the success of these efforts has enabled me a great career as a technology supplier, and being involved with NACS political efforts is a personally rewarding experience. There is something about walking the halls of our congressional offices to meet with our government leaders that hits a personal note that just can’t be described.

What federal legislative or regulatory issues keep you up at night?

It’s broad brush, but as a technology supplier, anything that compromises the industry’s ability to conduct fair, competitive commerce on an equal playing field among all retail verticals. It is a unique industry. A topic such as card interchange fees has dramatic impacts that are often misunderstood by our leaders in government, and it’s an item that could have put convenience retailers out of business had it gone the other way.

What c-store product can you not live without?

Easy one—the product of “convenience” which sets this industry apart. Whether it’s a quick cup of coffee (probably my most frequently purchased item), a bottle of water, snack, meal-on-the-go or gas, I can get in and get out quickly. M&M’s are probably my weak spot—just can’t walk away from them.