The Mueller Yurgae Associates (MYA) team was excited to attend the 2026 NACS Show in Las Vegas, October 7–9, joining thousands of convenience industry professionals for one of the industry’s largest annual events. The NACS Show brings together retailers, manufacturers, distributors, and industry partners to explore new products, discover emerging trends, strengthen relationships, and discuss the future of convenience retail. As a sales and marketing agency serving the convenience channel, MYA values the opportunity to connect with our clients, customers, and industry partners while gaining firsthand insight into the innovations shaping the marketplace. This year’s show highlighted an industry that continues to evolve, with manufacturers finding new ways to meet changing consumer preferences, introduce innovative products, and connect with shoppers.
From functional ingredients and bold flavors to evolving marketing strategies, several trends stood out on the show floor that we believe will continue influencing the convenience channel in 2027 and beyond.
Protein and Fiber Take Center Stage
One of the most noticeable trends at this year’s show was the continued expansion of protein-enhanced products. While protein has traditionally been associated with meat snacks, nutrition bars, and shakes, manufacturers are increasingly incorporating it into everyday snack foods, beverages, and other unexpected categories. Fiber also emerged as a growing area of interest, with manufacturers exploring ways to incorporate digestive health benefits and other functional ingredients into products consumers already enjoy. These innovations reflect a broader shift toward products that deliver additional nutritional benefits without sacrificing flavor or convenience. For retailers, this creates opportunities to expand assortments and reach consumers seeking more from their everyday snacks and beverages.
Functional Beverages Continue to Evolve
Beverage innovation remained a major focus throughout the show, with continued interest in energy, hydration, protein, and other functional benefits. Consumers are increasingly looking for beverages that fit their lifestyles and offer more than traditional refreshment. Manufacturers are responding with new formulations, flavor combinations, and products designed to support different needs throughout the day. For convenience retailers, these developments highlight the importance of evaluating beverage assortments and identifying opportunities to introduce new products alongside established category leaders.
Bold Flavors and Unique Snacking Experiences
The Cool New Products Showcase provided an exciting look at the creativity manufacturers are bringing to the convenience channel. Bold and globally inspired flavors, sweet-and-spicy combinations, nostalgic favorites, and unexpected product formats were all prominent throughout the showcase. Another noticeable theme was the emphasis on creating an experience around the product itself. Interactive candy, unique textures, colorful packaging, and creative product presentations demonstrated how manufacturers are finding new ways to capture consumer attention. As snacking occasions continue to evolve, manufacturers are also introducing more portable, ready-to-eat, refrigerated, and frozen options to meet demand for convenient alternatives to traditional meals.
Social Media and Influencer Marketing Drive Discovery
Beyond product innovation, the way consumers discover new products continues to change. Social media platforms and influencer partnerships are becoming increasingly important tools for generating awareness, particularly among younger shoppers. Products featuring unique flavors, interactive experiences, or visually appealing packaging can gain significant exposure through short-form videos and social media content. For manufacturers, this creates opportunities to build excitement around new products before consumers ever encounter them in a store. However, successful marketing must also be supported by strong distribution and retail execution. Turning online interest into purchases requires making products available where and when consumers are looking for them. This connection between digital marketing and in-store sales will continue to be an important consideration for brands looking to grow in the convenience channel.
Beyond exploring industry trends, one of the most valuable parts of the NACS Show was the opportunity to spend time with our clients, customers, and fellow CSN partners. As a proud CSN partner, MYA values the collaboration and relationships that help strengthen our presence throughout the convenience industry. The CSN booth provided an opportunity to showcase products from clients represented across the network, connect with retailers and manufacturers, and highlight the diverse brands and categories supported by CSN partners.
With partners and clients exhibiting throughout the show floor, the event also provided valuable opportunities to strengthen existing relationships, exchange insights, and discuss new opportunities for growth. These connections are an important part of what makes the NACS Show such a valuable event for our team each year.
The 2026 NACS Show reinforced just how dynamic the convenience channel continues to be. Consumer expectations are changing, product innovation is accelerating, and manufacturers and retailers are finding new ways to drive growth. At MYA, we love serving the convenience channel and being part of an industry that is constantly evolving. Our team is committed to helping manufacturers navigate changing trends, build strong retail relationships, and identify opportunities to grow their business.
Whether through sales representation, strategic marketing, merchandising, or retail execution, our focus remains on connecting our manufacturer partners with the right opportunities and delivering results. Thank you to our clients, customers, CSN partners, and everyone who connected with the MYA team in Las Vegas. We enjoyed another great NACS Show and look forward to building on those conversations in the months ahead.
We are already looking forward to the 2027 NACS Show and another opportunity to connect, collaborate, and celebrate the convenience industry!
