The 2025 GACS Annual Meeting & Convention
A Truly Fabled Event

T he 2025 Convention in Amelia Island was a tremendous success. We welcomed the largest crowd in several years; oversold our room block; had a waiting list for exhibit space; and welcomed lots of new members, sponsors and friends!  There was great excitement throughout the event as members enjoyed new networking opportunities and insightful educational sessions. 

Many walked away inspired by the timeless wisdom of Aesop’s Fables. These classic childhood stories gave us more than nostalgia; they sparked conversations that connected real-world lessons with the daily challenges and opportunities in our industry. It was a unique and memorable way to reflect, learn, and grow together. A special thank you to the following who shared their insight and perspectives:
  • Britt Davidson, Parker's Kitchens
  • John Ganas, Circle K
  • Samantha Gause, Inland Stores
  • Michael Junk, QuikTrip
  • KC Kingsbury, NACS
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Attendees enjoyed a strong agenda designed for relationship building and education.  Highlights included:

  • Education Sessions
  • Legislative Panel and Time w/ Key State Legislators
  • Tabletop Exhibits
  • Annual Meetings
  • Recognition of New GACS Leadership
  • Industry Dinners
  • Golf, Fishing and Entertainment
  • Family Beach Party
  • Valuable Networking in Relaxed Settings
  • Family Friendly Events
 
GACS is dedicated to offering strong legislative and educational sessions during our annual convention.  This year was no exception. This year’s keynote was delivered by Kyle Vowinkle, founder of Elite Mindsets and a seasoned leader with over 30 years of experience in high-pressure environments. As one of only five people in FBI history to serve on both the Hostage Rescue Team and the Crisis Negotiation Unit, Kyle shared powerful insights on performing under pressure, fostering collaboration, and achieving success. Drawing from real-life experiences, including the peaceful surrender of the Boston Marathon bomber, he delivered an emotionally impactful presentation that left attendees inspired.
Following our keynote was the Ten-Minute Tales session that featured your peers from across the industry sharing valuable insights and experiences. From emerging trends and strategies to overcoming challenges to building lasting customer loyalty, each story offered practical takeaways and a real-world perspective. These shared experiences served as a powerful reminder that others have faced similar challenges and overcome them. At GACS, we’re committed to fostering a connected community where members can learn from one another and grow together.
 
Last but certainly not least, attendees had the opportunity to sit in on a live legislative panel led by Sheila Humberstone of Stone Bridge Consulting. The panel featured an esteemed group of state leaders, including:
  • Tyler Harper, Commissioner, Georgia Department of Agriculture
  • Steve Gooch, Senate Majority Leader
  • Shaw Blackmon, Chairman, House Ways & Means Committee
  • James Burchett, House Majority Whip
  • Rob Clifton, State Representative
  • Mack Jackson, State Representative
  • Alan Powell, Chairman, House Regulated Industries Committee
We are incredibly thankful to these lawmakers for taking the time to share their knowledge, perspectives, and insights on the issues that impact our industry. Their openness and willingness to engage in thoughtful conversation made for a meaningful and productive session. We are equally grateful for the opportunity to share our industry's experiences and challenges with them, fostering a two-way conversation that strengthens understanding and collaboration at the state level.
 
As we reflect on the success of the 2025 Convention, we’re reminded of the power of connection, shared learning, and community. From thought-provoking sessions to peer-led insights and engaging conversations with our state leaders, this year’s event reinforced why gatherings like this matter. Thank you to all who attended, participated, and contributed to making this convention both impactful and memorable. We look forward to building on this momentum in the year ahead as we continue to support one another, strengthen our industry, and grow together.

Here are some "photographic highlights" of the Convention:
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