WHO

Convenience/Mobility Industry leaders from international markets.

An invitation-only group consisting of retailers and solution providers from around the globe. GCVG participants are leaders in their national markets and often operate in multiple countries.

WHAT

Think-Tank Forum

GCVG is designed for networking and thought-leadership discussion on strategic issues, practical implementation, and future trends that impact the future of convenience retailing.

WHY

Knowledge Sharing

GCVG members’ in-depth discussions about what works, what doesn’t work, and future trends in the global convenience/mobility industry are available to everyone through a series of free GCVG Vision Reports.

Global ConvenienceVision Group

Sharing innovations and insight from markets around the world.

The Global Convenience Vision Group (GCVG) has an international focus on convenience and mobility retailing. GCVG members gather to discuss what works in their markets, learn about trends and innovations in other countries, and provide their perspectives on developing, and future, trends that may impact their businesses, and yours.

These conversations are shared with the public, through GCVG Vision reports, for free.

What GCVG is passionate about

These are just some of the topics GCVG will explore:

  • New product introductions
  • Marketing channels and social media
  • Innovations in retail technology
  • Sustainability
  • Cost efficiency and margin improvement
  • Consumer trends
  • Proposed legislation

Meet Global Convenience Vision Group

Agnieszk-Bobrukiewicz
Agnieszk-Bobrukiewicz

    Agnieszka Bobrukiewicz, Board Member of Orlen Unipetrol, Dir. Non-fuel Segment for ORLEN S.A
    ORLEN Unipetrol a.s.

    AGNIESZKA BOBRUKIEWICZ is a member of the ORLEN Unipetrol Group’s Board of Directors, responsible for retail in the Czech Republic, Hungary, Slovakia and Austria, and serves as Executive Director for the ORLEN Group’s non-fuel segment.

    She is a senior executive with 20+ years of international experience in fuel and convenience retail and FMCG across Central and Eastern Europe. In her current roles, she oversees P&L for ORLEN retail operations in the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary and Austria and leads the non-fuel business across seven markets: Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Austria, Germany and Lithuania, shaping the ORLEN Group’s non-fuel strategy.

    Agnieszka has a proven track record in driving business transformation, strengthening retail brands and delivering growth across fuel and non-fuel segments, including convenience and food. She has extensive experience leading cross-border teams, launching new formats and executing commercial strategies in highly competitive markets.

    She focuses on innovation, customer experience and building high-performing teams that deliver sustained business impact.
    Alongside her executive responsibilities, she has for many years actively supported women in business through close collaboration with foundations and women’s professional organizations, advancing leadership development, inclusion and equal opportunities across markets.

     

    Board Member Orlen Unipetrol, Dir. Non-fuel Segment ORLEN S.A.
    ORLEN Unipetrol a.s.
    joe-boyle
    joe-boyle

      Joe Boyle, Chief Executive Officer
      FRESHSTOP

      Joe Boyle is the Chief Executive Office of FreshStop, a leading forecourt convenience store in South Africa - part of the Foo Lover’s Market Group. Joe began his career in Ireland, where he trained as an Apprentice Baker before emigrating to South Africa in 1983, Married with two children he settled in Nelspruit near his in-laws, he found employment with a construction company, contributing to the Sappi paper mill expansion at Ngodwana for nearly four years. His children's need for better educational opportunities prompted a move to Randburg, where his 3 child was born.

      Entering the retail sector as a Bakery Manager at Hyperama Sandton, Joe quickly ascended to Specialty Food Manager. His ambition led him to a management training program that included an intensive two-year course akin to a mini MBA, culminating in a thorough 14-week retail overview with 17 challenging exams. Excelling in his studies, Joe graduated top of his class of 32, leading to a Buyer position at Hyperama's Head Office. He impressively grew his purchasing portfolio there from R1.5 million to over R100 million per month over six years.

      In 1994, the he was appointed as Operations Manager at King Pie, a modestly sized franchise with 16 stores. Within three years, Joe ascended to the role of Managing Director as the brand expanded its presence to nearly 300 stores within South Africa and ventured globally with openings in Australia, New Zealand, Poland, and England.

      Following King Pie's acquisition by Rebhold, subsequently renamed Mvelaphanda, the franchise met its profit targets ahead of schedule under Joe’s leadership. Simultaneously, sluggish growth and profitability issues at Royal Foods Services, another Rebhold subsidiary in Durban's contract catering sector, prompted shareholders to assign him to groom a new Managing Director for King Pie and oversee profitability and growth improvements at Royal Foods Services. Key to success was advancing the company's BEE rating and merging it with Sechaba Afrika. Joe’s efforts were instrumental in increasing annual turnover from R130 million to nearly R500 million over five years and reaching satisfactory profit margins. Cyril Ramaphosa, now President of South Africa, collaborated on this project.

      While serving Royal Foods Services, they pursued an MBA from Wits University over two years and passed all courses but had to forgo the final paper due to a career transition.

      In December 2004, Butterfield Bakery enticed Joe with an Operational Director role that included equity participation. Despite initial financial losses and challenging circumstances, his leadership led to a company turnaround. The goal was set by the primary shareholder to sell the company within three years at a value correlating with three to four years of pre-tax profits. This objective was met when Butterfield Bakery sold for more than triple its PBT after three years. After taking a two-month hiatus, Joe resumed his career at Fruit & Veg City in March 2008, taking on the role of Director for the FreshStop Brand, which initially included 14 stores. Since then, the brand has expanded to 330 franchised stores. The key goal was to develop and scale a robust business model designed to grow within the range of 300 to 400 stores throughout Southern Africa.

      During Joe’s tenure with organisations such as Hyperama, King Pie, Royal Foods Services, and Butterfield, they actively participated in numerous professional development programs covering Marketing, Advertising, Sales, Project Management, Leadership, Emotional Intelligence, and Financial Management.

      Joe has cultivated considerable networking connections and gained deep insights into his field by serving in various capacities across industry forums. His roles have included Council Member of the Franchise Association of South Africa, Vice President of the National Association of Catering Executives, Board Member of the Chamber of Baking in South Africa, and Treasurer of the Craft Bakers Association of South Africa. Additionally, he was appointed as a Board Member on the NACS (National Association of Convenience Stores) International Board.

      Chief Executive Officer
      FRESHSTOP
      brian-donaldson-2025
      brian-donaldson-2025

        Brian Donaldson, Chief Executive Officer
        The Maxol Group

        Chief Executive Officer
        The Maxol Group
        mert-dunder
        mert-dunder

          Mert Dunder, Head of Operational Technology
          Petrol Ofisi Group

          Results-driven manager with progressive experience gained in the competitive energy industry. Proven track record in several communication infrastructure, automation and operational technology activities, product development through project management, effective staff management. Expertise coupled with the development of strong customer and vendor relationships conductive to business growth. Demonstrates in-depth technical, analytical knowledge and strategic ability to facilitate operational and procedural planning – evaluating – assessing and managing the technology process.

          Head of Operational Technology
          Petrol Ofisi Group
          jorge-ESCUIN-RUBIO
          jorge-ESCUIN-RUBIO

            Jorge Escuin-Rubio, Head of Strategy and Business Development – Mobility
            REPSOL SA

            With 30 years of experience in the energy sector, Jorge has spent almost his entire professional career in Repsol.

            He began in 1994 in different sales and management positions in the Service Stations Business. He continued his professional growth by leading teams in Planning and Control Downstream Business, Regulatory Affairs, until he reached his current position as Director of Strategy and Business Development in the mobility area where, together with a great team, he works hard to provide customers with products and services wherever, whenever and however they need them.

            An advocate of a fair energy transition, which ensures the promotion of efficient and sustainable mobility, from technological neutrality to excellence in customer experience, Jorge is leading the deployment of a new 100% renewable diesel at 1,500 sites in Spain and Portugal by the end of the year.

            Over the last few years, he has also promoted the transformation of service stations in the Repsol group, with significant projects such as the creation of a new model of semi-proximity store, SuperCor Stop and Go, the set up the largest digital network of carwashes in Spain, Repsol Klin or several partnerships with leading brands such as El Corte Inglés, Amazon, Starbucks, Nespresso, Disney, …

            He is also a member of the board of directors of Wible which is the car sharing company that Repsol has in Madrid, together with the Korean automaker KIA.

            With a degree in Business Administration, he also holds an MBA from IESE business school.

            Company description:

            Repsol is a multi-energy company committed to a sustainable world with a forward-looking vision based on innovation and efficiency.

            Repsol has a diverse team of more than 24,000 employees representing 79 nationalities who work across 29 countries.

            They search for, produce, transform, and sell the oil and natural gas they obtain, in the knowledge that they need to meet both current and future energy needs.

            Repsol is present throughout the entire energy value chain cycle, ranging from oil and gas exploration and production to low-carbon electricity generation and the production and marketing of energy solutions for the home, industry, and mobility.

            It offers many solutions to meet society's essential needs, always guaranteeing the highest quality, safety, and efficiency of all its products and services, developed with the highest technological innovation. Repsol provides its customers with all the energy solutions they need for transportation, home, or business.

            Repsol is Leading the energy transition with the aim of achieving the primary goal of becoming net zero by 2050. It relies on various lines of action in line with the targets set out in the Paris Agreement. To reach this goal, Repsol has set itself a demanding roadmap, including ambitious emissions reduction targets initially established in its 2021-2025 Strategic Plan and updated on Repsol ESG Day.

            Digitization and technology are fundamental in meeting its goal of being a net-zero emissions company by 2050. It relies on digital technologies such as artificial intelligence, robotic process automation (RPA), cloud solutions, advanced data analytics, and more. In addition, Repsol boasts its research center, the Repsol Technology Lab, where more than 250 experts work on the development of new technological solutions for the energy industry's entire value chain.

            Ambition, technology, and project execution enable Repsol to increase the speed at which they achieve this target.

            Head of Strategy & Bus. Development Mobility
            REPSOL SA
            Santiago-Ferreccio
            Santiago-Ferreccio

              Santiago Ferreccio, Head YPF FULL
              YPF SA

              Business Administrator with a Postgraduate degree in Business. Oriented to commercial management, operations, and new business development, with analytical thinking, negotiation, planning, and organization skills.

              Vast experience with more than 20 years in Convenience Retailing, Sales, Marketing, and Operations, leading oil companies in the Argentine market. I emphasize my experience in the formation and management of heterogeneous client-oriented work teams, obtaining
              results and providing advice. Member of the YPF Commercial School, training 1000+ employees.

              Head YPF FULL
              YPF SA
              Theo-Foukkare
              Theo-Foukkare

                Theo Foukkare, Chief Executive Officer
                Australian Association of Convenience Stores (AACS)

                Theo Foukkare is the CEO of the Australian Association of Convenience Stores (AACS), bringing extensive leadership experience and strategic vision to the dynamic convenience retail industry.
                Passionate about driving growth, innovation, and sustainability within the channel, Theo is a trusted voice for retailers, suppliers, government stakeholders & the media.

                Theo’s collaborative approach ensures that AACS remains a leading advocate for the convenience channel, prioritizing both the success of legitimate businesses and the broader community’s needs. An experienced and strategic leader, Theo is committed to helping shape the future of Convenience in Australia through his advocacy, thought leadership, and focus on protecting the interests of the industry.

                Chief Executive Officer
                Australian Association of Convenience Stores (AACS)
                edwin-de-graaff
                edwin-de-graaff

                  Edwin de Graaff, Global Head of Shop Format & Innovation at Shell Mobility & Convenience
                  Shell

                  Edwin is a seasoned executive with over 20 years of experience in Retail and Supply Chain Management. Currently, he serves as the Global Head of Shop Format & Innovation at Shell Mobility & Convenience, where he spearheads strategic initiatives for customer offerings, including the development of retail design of EV-Hub, Shell Café, modular store concepts, and many other projects. He also holds a position as the Director and Board Member of Shell TapUp B.V.

                  Throughout his career, Edwin has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills, leading teams of over 50 professionals and enhancing Shell's non-fuel retail capabilities. His leadership approach focuses on developing people, fostering a collaborative environment, and empowering his team to achieve their full potential. Edwin's strategic leadership in optimizing supply chain strategies has been instrumental in driving significant improvements and efficiencies.
                  Edwin's extensive retail expertise includes negotiating multi-billion-dollar deals and overseeing retail procurement globally for the retail supply chain. His leadership in contract negotiations and supplier relationship management has driven significant cost efficiencies and value creation.
                  Edwin holds executive education credentials from MIT, Wharton, and Kellogg, and has a background in Business Economics and Information Management. A persuasive communicator and thought leader, Edwin frequently represents Shell at industry events, sharing insights on convenience retail, innovation, future outlook, and business practices.

                  Outside of work, Edwin enjoys golf, hockey, cycling, and spending time with his wife and 3 children. He speaks 4 languages, Dutch, English, German and Spanish.

                  Global Head, Shop Format & Innovation at Shell Mobility & Convenience
                  Shell
                  frodi-hammer
                  frodi-hammer

                    Frodi Hammer, VP & Founder of A2i Technology
                    A2i by OPIS, A Dow Jones Company

                    As the VP and Founder of A2i Technologies at A2i by OPIS, a Dow Jones company, Frodi Hammer is a pioneer in implementing artificial intelligence within the retail industry. He serves as the chief architect and driving force behind PriceCast, a revolutionary self-learning algorithm designed for fuel price optimization. A2i by OPIS is an advanced AI firm that specializes in customer-centric fuel pricing.

                    Earlier in his career, Frodi was a Ph.D. researcher in AI at the University of Southern Denmark. His academic research, which earned recognition at various international conferences, was foundational to creating PriceCast's unique, customer-focused algorithm. By merging sophisticated artificial intelligence with rigorous compliance standards, PriceCast empowers fuel retailers to navigate intricate markets with confidence. It replaces obsolete, rule-based mechanisms with predictive, customer-centric pricing models that enables fuel retailers to meet their strategic objectives ethically, transparently, and successfully.

                    VP & Founder of A2i Technology
                    A2i by OPIS, A Dow Jones Company
                    gcvg-christopher-hartman
                    gcvg-christopher-hartman

                      Christopher Hartman, VP of Fuels, Advertising, and Development
                      Rutter's

                      Chris is currently the Vice President of Fuels, Advertising, and Development for Rutter’s convenience stores, in York, PA, as well as President of M&G Realty. He is the 11th generation to work in the family business, dating back to the founding of the Rutter’s farm in 1747.

                      Chris grew up working in his family’s stores, beginning at age 13, while also attending and participating in various convenience store industry events for over 20 years.

                      In 2016, Chris moved to Washington D.C. to attend George Washington University’s Global MBA program, receiving his master’s degree in 2018, with a concentration in Finance. In July of 2018, Chris returned to his roots, joining Rutter’s as Director of Fuels and Forecourt, later adding Advertising, Construction and Real Estate acquisition to his responsibilities with the company.

                      In his free time, Chris enjoys travelling and golfing. He currently lives in York with his wife, Hilarie.

                      VP of Fuels, Advertising, and Development
                      Rutter's
                      zsuzsa-hordai
                      zsuzsa-hordai

                        Zsuzsa Hordai, Head of Strategic Projects
                        SPAR International

                        With over 10 years of experience in international market development, strategy, e-commerce and AI, I am currently leading international strategic projects across SPAR worldwide, a leading global food retail organization with over 13,500 stores in 48 countries. I also coordinate and manage our development plans in the GCC region. My mission is to drive growth and innovation through collaboration across SPAR's diverse and dynamic markets, leveraging data, AI-driven insights, best practices, and the power of our network.

                        As a former International Retail Development Manager at SPAR International, I successfully led the strategic business development and expansion in Europe and China, launching new markets, developing omni-channel capabilities, and leading the global e-commerce action group. My strong background in consumer goods, retail, data, and AI, combined with certifications in Lean Six Sigma, communication and finance, enables me to create value for customers, partners, and stakeholders through effective and engaging solutions.

                        In addition to my professional roles, I am passionate about mentoring and coaching emerging leaders within the industry. I have guided numerous professionals in their career development, helping them to achieve their goals and excel in their roles. I am particularly committed to female empowerment and leadership, actively supporting initiatives that promote gender equality and the advancement of women in business.

                        My commitment to leadership extends to my engagement with industry bodies such as NACS, CGF, and the AI Council, where we collaborate to drive key initiatives within the grocery retail industry for a more sustainable and technologically advanced future.

                        Head of Strategic Projects
                        SPAR International
                        hilmar-hubers
                        hilmar-hubers

                          Hilmar Hübers, Chief Executive Officer
                          Lekkerland SE

                          Hilmar Hübers, born in 1973, is Chief Executive Officer of Lekkerland SE. At board level, he is responsible for purchasing and category management, smart stores, human resources, strategy & transformation, communications, and the management of Lekkerland's national subsidiaries in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Spain.

                          He joined the company in 2020 from the REWE Group after Lekkerland became part of the REWE Group. He began his career at the REWE Group as a member of the management board of REWE Markt GmbH before being appointed to the Divisional Board for Germany. In this role, he was most recently responsible for the Customer & Analytics division.

                          Hilmar Hübers holds a degree in industrial engineering and worked for a management consultancy for ten years after completing his studies.

                          Chief Executive Officer
                          Lekkerland SE
                          Daniel-Kaddik
                          Daniel-Kaddik

                            Daniel Kaddik, CEO
                            Bundesverband freier Tankstellen

                            Daniel Kaddik is Chief Executive Officer of bft – Bundesverband freier Tankstellen, the German Association of Independent Petrol Stations, which represents a network of 530 companies in the fuels sector. This segment of Germany’s Mittelstand comprises more than 2,800 petrol stations and over 27,000 jobs. In addition, he leads the eFuel Today project, which advocates for CO₂-neutral mobility. From 2023 to 2024, he also served as a member of the management board of MEW Mittelständische Energiewirtschaft Deutschland e.V., the German Association of Medium-Sized Energy Companies.

                            He is also a member of the Advisory Board of Automechanika, the world’s leading trade fair for the automotive aftermarket, and serves as a jury member for the “Petrol Station of the Year” award. In addition, he is a member of the Steering Committee of the Working Group on Monitoring Methodologies for CO₂-Neutral Fuels (WGMM), a cross-sector industry initiative that develops technical approaches for proving and monitoring the use of CO₂-neutral fuels in road transport.

                            Daniel Kaddik has 15 years of experience in politics, association work, think tanks and NGOs. During this time, he has worked with national and local governments, politicians and numerous NGOs in Germany, India, Russia, Central Asia, Southeastern Europe and at EU level. He is active as a political and strategic consultant for political parties, candidates and NGOs, and is co-founder and Managing Director of EZYcloud.org, a Salesforce implementation agency specializing in CRM solutions for NGOs.

                            From 2018 to 2022, Daniel Kaddik was Executive Director of the European Liberal Forum (ELF), the political foundation of the European Liberal Party, the ALDE Party. Together with its member organizations, ELF works across Europe to introduce new ideas into political debates, create platforms for discussion and encourage citizens to make their voices heard.

                            From 2012 to 2019, he headed the Southeastern Europe office of the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom, a non-profit organization that promotes liberal values, the rule of law and economic freedom. The foundation is active in more than 60 countries and provides political consulting and educational programs.

                            Prior to that, Daniel Kaddik worked for the foundation in Germany, India and Russia. He is actively committed to entrepreneurship as well as personal and political responsibility. His focus lies on liberal policy solutions, economics and the social sciences, as well as citizen participation in policymaking.

                            He holds degrees in Governmental Studies from the University of Erfurt, European Studies from the University of Hamburg and International Studies from the University of Birmingham.

                            CEO
                            Bundesverband freier Tankstellen
                            Jesper Østergaard
                            Jesper Østergaard

                              Jesper Østergaard, CEO
                              Reitan Convenience Denmark A/S

                              7-ELEVEN DANMARK

                              • City stores, railway stores and gas stations (Uno-X)
                              • First 7-Eleven store in Denmark opened in 1993
                              •  Market leader in the Danish convenience market
                              • High focus on food & beverages – including healthier choices
                              • "Convenience retailer of the year 2019”, NACS
                              • Won “the plant-based product prize 2021” for offering a large range of plant-based products nationwide

                              JESPER ØSTERGAARD

                              • CEO since 2006
                              • Value driven and very operational / customer centric
                              • Driven by achieving goals with the franchisees and the team

                               

                              CEO
                              Reitan Convenience Denmark A/S
                              nicolas-Papadopoulos
                              nicolas-Papadopoulos

                                Nicolas Papadopoulos, Director New Markets
                                Verifone

                                Nicolas is Director of New Markets with extensive experience supporting petroleum retailers and convenience store operators across global markets. He specializes in driven growth through strategic partnerships, technology-enabled solutions and deep understanding of fuel, retail and payment ecosystems. Nicolas has served in various roles inside Verifone from product, sales and now responsible for growing Verifone's presence into new markets outside the US.

                                Director New Markets
                                Verifone
                                daniel-quest
                                daniel-quest

                                  Daniel Quest, SVP Convenience
                                  METRO AG

                                  Daniel brings over 20 years of extensive experience in steering UK symbol groups, during which he has held a variety of leadership roles and has been responsible for overseeing the operations of two prominent UK brands, Budgens and Cost Cutters.

                                  His professional journey has allowed him to develop a deep expertise in areas such as concept development, the establishment of robust franchise partnerships, and the execution of rapid growth programs. In addition to these strategic initiatives, he has also managed several critical business functions—including sales, property management, supply chain coordination, store development, and space planning—ensuring operational excellence across the board.

                                  Currently, Daniel works as a key member of the executive team at Metro AG, a globally recognized wholesale food retailer. Metro AG is renowned for its significant market presence, with earnings exceeding €30 million and operations spanning more than 33 countries, supported by a workforce of over 85,000 employees.

                                  In his role as Senior Vice President of the Convenience team, Daniel is charged with leading the development and implementation of innovative convenience franchise strategies across 9 countries. In this capacity, he effectively oversees a rapidly expanding network of over 7,000 stores, driving the company’s growth and ensuring that its franchise model remains competitive and well-positioned for future success.

                                  SVP Convenience
                                  METRO AG
                                  Claudio-Reboredo
                                  Claudio-Reboredo

                                    Claudio Reboredo, Partner - Owner
                                    FGC Fuels Marketing

                                    Claudio Reboredo, a seasoned international executive and entrepreneur, straddles diverse worlds as a consultant, speaker, and key industry figure. Currently, he holds the pivotal role of Relationship Partner for LATAM at NACS (National Association of Convenience Stores, USA).

                                    Claudio's international prowess is evident in his 30+ years of experience within a multinational corporation, spanning varied stints across the UK, Colombia, Mexico, and the US. His expertise lies in navigating diverse industries like retail, oil and gas, and technology, having held leadership positions in sales, marketing, and operations.

                                    Beyond corporate walls, Claudio leverages his acumen to guide prominent companies in Latin America through his consulting firm Core Crowd (www.corecrowd.net).

                                    He is also the co-founder of FGC Fuels Marketing (www.fgc.company), a fuel wholesale and retail powerhouse in Argentina. FGC was the first Latin American business to win the NACS Convenience Retailer of the Year Award in 2023. We have also been recognized as Argentina's best retailer by Shell International and ranked second globally in the "The Best Foodvenience Store in the World 2024" competition.

                                    A sought-after speaker at industry events, Claudio imparts insights on strategy and leadership. Driven by an insatiable curiosity and a passion for continuous learning, his career began in executive education, where he created SIMx (corecrowd.net/simx), a "business war" simulation model for mastering the intricacies of retail.

                                    Claudio's literary debut, "El cuento del Liderazgo”, delves into inspiring stories to unveil the essence of true leadership.
                                    He further lends his expertise as an advisor to the NACS International Board of Directors and the NACS LATAM committee, having previously served on the Coca Cola Retailing Research Council for Latin America.

                                    Partner - Owner
                                    FGC Fuels Marketing
                                    Jennifer-Schmidt-Brekenfeld
                                    Jennifer-Schmidt-Brekenfeld

                                      Jennifer Schmidt-Brekenfeld, Geschäftsführerin Tank & Rast GmbH
                                      Autobahn Tank & Rast Gruppe GmbH & Co. KG

                                      Geschäftsführerin Tank & Rast GmbH
                                      Autobahn Tank & Rast Gruppe GmbH & Co. KG
                                      patrick-schnell
                                      patrick-schnell

                                        Patrick, Schnell, General Manager
                                        Petro-Center SA / PC-Tank Sàrl

                                         

                                         

                                        General Manager
                                        Petro-Center SA / PC-Tank Sàrl
                                        Sandra Schutte
                                        Sandra Schutte

                                          Sandra Schütte, Head of Mobility
                                          Westfalen AG

                                          Sandra Schütte has over 20 years of experience in the retail and food service sector, with more than 15 years of experience in the petrol station business. After graduating from the University of Bonn with a degree in “Dipl. Oecotrophologin” (Food Science and Oeconomics), she began her career as a product developer at a food agency. In 2008, she joined BP, where she held various positions in the areas of category management and sales. In her last position at BP, she was Global Food Service Manager, responsible for the food service strategy and a cross-border team. In November 2018, Sandra Schütte joined Westfalen AG, where she was responsible for convenience and car wash business of the Mobility division as Head of Convenience, Gastronomy and Services. On 1 January 2024, she took over overall responsibility for the Mobility division and became a member of Westfalen AG's management board.

                                           

                                          Head of Mobility
                                          Westfalen AG
                                          roger-vogt
                                          roger-vogt

                                            Roger Vogt, CEO Retail
                                            Valora Schweiz AG

                                            CEO Retail
                                            Valora Schweiz AG

                                            GCVG Advisor and Facilitator

                                            christian-warning
                                            christian-warning

                                              Christian Warning, Founder and Managing Partner
                                              The Retail Marketeers

                                              Christian Warning is the founder and Managing Partner of The Retail Marketeers, a Hamburg (Germany) based consulting firm focused on retail convenience in its many forms. Christian, an alumni of the University of Hamburg , has for 13 years worked for Shell, eventually becoming the head of its billion-dollar non-fuel retail business in the German market. Following this, he oversaw the development of Germany’s largest convenience store franchise chain outside fuel stations at Deutsche Bahn (German railway). The Retail Marketeers are sought-after experts in the rapidly evolving roadside retail and mobility omnichannel business. The company uniquely combines a deep knowledge of daily operations with strategic insights while its boutique size guarantees focus and efficiency. Its ability to swiftly integrate retailer’s needs with vendor’s capabilities is at the core of a successful and cost-effective market-entry and transition strategy. For this, The Retail Marketeers create ideas and tailor-made processes, while putting clients in touch with just the right people to bring these ideas to life. Thirty plus years of hands-on industry best practice, together with an unprecedented network that encompasses manufacturers, wholesalers and pivotal company executives make the company a powerful ally for any convenience venture.

                                              Christian is the chair of the Swiss Convenience Retail and forecourttech, the global leading pure tech focused matchmaking conference for the convenience & mobility industry.

                                              Christian is the NACS Relationship Partner for German speaking markets (D-A-CH) and the proud host of the annual NACS Convenience Leaders Exchange in Hamburg. As an advisory board member to 2 global acting petrol station specialists he visits more than 1,000 gas stations and convenience stores in many different countries yearly.

                                              Christian serves as the chairman for the mobility gastronomy vertical within the ICA Network in Germany. With more than 350 members, the ICA Executive Network is a strong community and sets standards as a networking platform where the top management levels of food service companies meet for regular events.

                                              Founder and Managing Partner
                                              The Retail Marketeers

                                              GCVG Past Members

                                              sergio-Padilla-Navarro
                                              sergio-Padilla-Navarro

                                                Sergio Padilla Navarro, Global Networks Director
                                                FEMSA

                                                With over 15 years of experience in Retail Transformation and Strategic Planning, Sergio is a results-driven leader dedicated to empowering teams and fostering innovation. He champions the power of collaboration, data-driven decision-making, and the continuous enhancement of value propositions as key drivers of organizational excellence and sustainable competitive advantage. Sergio is convinced that any successful Strategy is a learning journey that starts with a strong customer-centric belief.

                                                Global Networks Director
                                                FEMSA
                                                Caroline-Rowan
                                                Caroline-Rowan

                                                  Caroline Rowan, Convenience Retail Expert

                                                  In 2024, SuperValu Portstewart won the highly coveted NACS Convenience Retailer of the Year Award and Musgrave Company Owned stores won the Retail Industry Award for Convenience Retailer of the Year. With over 20 years’ experience working in roles across retail and wholesale for both the convenience symbol groups and a leading multiple, Caroline has a wealth of knowledge in the sector.

                                                   

                                                  Convenience Retail Expert
                                                  Kelly Tracey
                                                  Kelly Tracey

                                                    Kelly Tracey, General Manager
                                                    Vantage Fuels Pty Ltd trading as Bowser Bean

                                                    I am a seasoned HR practitioner with a robust background in operations, specialising in leveraging the power of people to drive organizational success. With over 20 of experience in the franchising and hospitality sectors, I have consistently demonstrated the ability to align human resources strategies with business objectives, resulting in enhanced performance and employee engagement.

                                                    Throughout my career, I have cultivated a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities within the franchising and hospitality industries. My ability to foster a culture of collaboration and accountability has been instrumental in driving results, ensuring that teams are not only well-equipped to meet operational demands but are also motivated to exceed them.

                                                    Most recently, moving into the Fuel Industry where I currently serve as General Manager at Vantage Fuels, more commonly known as Bowser Bean. Here, I use my knowledge and experience of Food & Beverage to enhance our Café offer that is partnered with our fuel and convenience model to ensure a sustainable business model for years to come. Within this role, I have applied my HR expertise to optimise workforce performance and enhance customer satisfaction. I have successfully implemented strategic HR initiatives that improved employee retention rates and streamlined operational processes. My commitment to creating a positive work environment has led to significant improvements in team morale, engagement, and productivity, demonstrating my belief that people are the most valuable asset of any organisation.

                                                    I use data-driven insights to inform HR strategies and operational decisions. Identifying talent gaps, developing training programs, and fostering leadership development, all while maintaining a keen focus on achieving measurable results and bottom line profitability.

                                                    With a proven track record of success and a genuine passion for empowering individuals, I am dedicated to harnessing the potential of people to achieve exceptional business outcomes.

                                                    General Manager
                                                    Vantage Fuels Pty Ltd trading as Bowser Bean

                                                    *Bio, Title and Position at the time of group membership.

                                                    GCVG Ally Supporters

                                                    Past GCVG Ally Supporters

                                                    What GCVG members say:

                                                    Zsuzsa Hordai

                                                    SPAR InternationalHead of Strategic Projects

                                                    Latest VGN Lens Articles

                                                    local-problem-local-solution

                                                    A Local Problem, and a Local Answer

                                                    Illegal tobacco sales often stay hidden in store data until losses are already severe. Operators can build an expected sales benchmark from existing POS data to catch illicit trade intrusion early, then turn that customer loss into a foodservice growth opportunity.


                                                    nacs-europe-2026

                                                    NACS Convenience Summit Europe in Warsaw Poland

                                                    Myra Kressner reflects on attending the NACS Convenience Summit Europe in Warsaw, Poland, where networking with VGN members and global retailers, along with store tours across fuel stations, convenience chains, and foodservice concepts, reinforced how customer experience and destination shopping continue to shape convenience retailing worldwide.


                                                    zabka-feature

                                                    Generation Żabka: The Next Wave of Convenience

                                                    Lonnie McQuirter recounts a visit to Żabka Group's Warsaw headquarters, examining how the Polish convenience giant built retail media, app-based loyalty, and autonomous Nano stores into new growth engines. McQuirter draws transferable lessons for independent operators, from auditing fixed assets to finding the small, unglamorous gaps in a customer's day worth closing.


                                                    vgn-lens-newsletter

                                                    Founders

                                                    Myra-Kressner

                                                    Myra Kressner


                                                    Founder, Kressner Strategy Group
                                                    With over 40 years knowledge and experience cultivated by strong relationships, Myra Kressner brings value to the marketplace by developing and facilitating strategic engagement for suppliers and retailers in the consumable retail industries.

                                                    Learn More About Myra
                                                    eva-strasburger

                                                    Eva Strasburger


                                                    President, StrasGlobal
                                                    CEO, Compliance Safe
                                                    Eva Strasburger, brings an international perspective to everything she does. For the last thirty years, has provided operational and infrastructure support and management consulting to retail operators.

                                                    Learn More About Eva
                                                    Roy Strasburger

                                                    Roy Strasburger


                                                    CEO, StrasGlobal
                                                    President, Compliance Safe
                                                    Roy Strasburger is an expert in convenience retailing and a thought leader in the retail industry. He is a frequent columnist, conference presenter, and webinar and podcast participant.

                                                    Learn More About Roy

                                                    Vision Group NetworkSHARING TODAY to SHAPE TOMORROW

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