The 2025 UCB National Member Conference took place at the Royal Pines Resort on the Gold Coast, drawing a large crowd from across the industry.
Held from 1 to 3 April, the conference’s theme was ‘Change is Good…Progress is Better’, and it featured a compelling mix of business sessions, a trade show, and numerous networking opportunities, including activities and dinners to help attendees connect, mingle, and catch up.
During the business sessions, Darren Park, CEO of UCB, addressed key challenges and opportunities facing the industry, underscoring the importance of adapting to changing consumer expectations. He stated, “Our ability to adapt and respond to the needs of the consumer will define the future of convenience retail.”
In discussing the competitive landscape, Park acknowledged the challenges posed by rising costs and supply chain disruptions. However, he maintained an optimistic outlook
“While challenges exist, so do opportunities. Those who innovate and collaborate will emerge stronger. We must continue to evolve, invest in our people, and remain customer-focused to ensure a thriving future for the convenience sector.”
Day one of the conference featured a diverse lineup of speakers, including Antonia Tolich from Carlton United Breweries, Theo Foukkare from AACS, Elisha Radwanoski from ACAPMA, and an inspiring address by Brock Giblin from Link Signs.
The speakers provided a wealth of insights from their respective fields. Tolich shared intriguing perspectives on the role alcohol could play in the P&C sector, while Foukkare presented the AACS State of Industry report. He then took part in a panel discussion discussing the impact of illicit tobacco on the industry.
Giblin’s address was particularly moving, as he shared for the first time his remarkable story of perseverance after surviving a car accident in his teens that left 70 per cent of his body burned. Despite this, Giblin realigned his focus and now runs a successful signage company that caters to a significant portion of the P&C channel.
Day two began with a breakfast sponsored by Dare Charged, which featured an engaging conversation with Australian cricketing legend Brett Lee. Lee shared captivating stories from his playing career, his experiences in Bollywood films, and his thoughts on the future of Australian fast bowlers.
Following the breakfast, attendees participated in a range of networking activities, including golf, go-karting, wine-tasting, and other enjoyable networking opportunities.
As expected at UCB Conferences, the dinners and after-parties were lively and full of great food, drinks, and entertainment, allowing attendees to reconnect with old friends and build new relationships.
Day three kicked off with a stand-up breakfast, sponsored by Posca Hydrate, where Merrick Watts, radio personality and co-founder of Posca, donned a gladiator outfit and participated in an impressive arm-wrestling match.
The final day of business sessions featured speakers such as Darren Park, Mark McCrindle from McCrindle Research, Brad Cooper from CCEP, Dr Philip Lowe, former Governor of the RBA, and Janine Allis from Boost Juice.
After the sessions, attendees headed out to the trade show for an afternoon of networking, deal-making, and discovering new innovations.
Stay tuned for more coverage in next week’s C&I newsletter.
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