Driving Growth Together: Join Us at the 2026 HRA C-Store Connect EXPO- the Southeast’s Largest Convenience & Retail Tradeshow

Driving Growth Together: Join Us at the 2026 HRA C-Store Connect EXPO- the Southeast’s Largest Convenience & Retail Tradeshow

Operating a successful convenience store requires strong relationships, continuous innovation, and a reliable network of support. At the Horizon Retailers Association (HRA), we believe our members achieve the greatest success when we work together. By uniting thousands of independent retailers and dozens of exclusive vendor partners, we create opportunities that foster a thriving community. That shared vision of collective power is exactly why we are thrilled to announce our highly anticipated 2026 C-Store Connect Trade Show.

Since our inaugural event in 2021, we have watched this annual gathering grow from a bold idea into one of the most significant and most anticipated convenience store events in the Southeast. Every year, we aim to make the experience even better, connecting more individuals and bringing more value to our dedicated community. This year, we are preparing for our biggest and most impactful show yet.

On Thursday, September 17, 2026, we invite you to join us at the Cobb Convention Center in Marietta, Georgia. From 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, the convention floor will be buzzing with energy, connection, and forward momentum. We are expecting thousands of attendees to walk through the doors, alongside more than 225+ industry-leading manufacturers, brands, suppliers, and vendors.

One of our primary goals at HRA is to secure better pricing, promotions, marketing and higher profits for our growing network of over 5,800+ retailers, owners, and decision-makers. The C-Store Connect Trade Show brings that exact mission to life in a single room. Every vendor on the show floor brings pricing centric, promotional driven deals exclusively for attendees. Whether you are looking to upgrade your beverage cold vault space, expand your food service solutions, implement modern point-of-sale systems, or launch new loyalty platforms, you will find suppliers competing for your business. We are excited to offer these exclusive agreements and discounts as a special benefit for joining us in person, allowing you to maximize your savings while networking directly with the CPG and vendor community.

Beyond the immediate savings, the event serves as a premier hub for industry discovery. The convenience retail landscape is always evolving. Attendees have the unique chance to explore cutting-edge innovations and discover the latest trends shaping the sector today. Our vendors will be hosting live demonstrations and showcasing new technologies designed to help you streamline operations and attract more customers.

Just as importantly, the trade show provides an unparalleled opportunity to connect face-to-face. Quality relationships are essential to everything we do. We believe in treating our members like family, and this one-day event allows retailers to meet directly with suppliers, share ideas with fellow store owners, and build the lasting partnerships that move businesses forward. From the bustling show floor to the celebratory afterparty, every moment is designed to help you expand your professional network.

To add even more excitement to the day, we are featuring an incredible lineup of raffles doorbusters, cash and giveaways, giving away over $50,000+ in valued prizes! As a special thank you to our dedicated community, HRA Members will also have exclusive entry into a mega giveaway for a chance to win the grand prize of a brand-new car!

We know that independent operators face unique daily challenges. Together, we are much stronger and much better equipped to find solutions. The 2026 C-Store Connect Trade Show is a true celebration of teamwork and community growth. It is a single day dedicated to driving real revenue and building a brighter future for the entire convenience retail industry.

We invite all retailers, vendors, and industry professionals to secure their spot today. Register your booth or claim your attendee ticket now, and let us continue building a thriving, profitable community together this September.