NACS Global Forum14-17 June, 2008
Munich, Germany
For 2008, NACS is hosting its annual Global Forum in Munich Germany. The event offers convenience retailers and
Global Supplier Council Members* from around the world the opportunity to learn strategies for business development from retailers, consultants and manufacturers.
The Global Forum provides an excellent opportunity for knowledge exchange, thought leadership and networking throughout the event. Key elements of the program include:
- business and consumer trends
- key category dynamics
- emerging technologies
- format tours
Program Overview
This highly interactive program combines presentations, panel discussions, round tables and visits to retail formats. Specifically, the Forum provides retailers with the opportunity to interact with their counterparts from other markets to share best practices in retailing, understand emerging trends and gain consumer insights. For Global Supplier Council Members*, the Forum provides an introduction to leading retail executives from global chains as well as programming on trends and opportunities for your company in global markets.
This year's program will feature an exceptional combination of educational content, networking opportunities and store format tours in Munich and the surrounding Munich area motorway.
Networking Events
Welcome Reception at the Charles Hotel and
Strolling Dinner at the Käfer-Schänke Gourmet Market
Saturday, 14 June
Begin your Global Forum experience with the Welcome Reception at the Charles Hotel. Then be whisked away to one of Munich's most impressive gourmet markets, the Käfer-Schänke Gourmet Market. This family-owned establishment, which opened in the 1930s as a deli and liquor store, has since evolved into a fine food emporium that today incorporates a shop, a catering service and a bistro-style restaurant. Mingle with others in a lighthearted, chalet-like setting while indulging in cuisine that is eclectic and satisfying.
Closing Reception and Dinner at BMW Welt (World)
Monday, 16 June
Top off your visit to Munich by attending the Closing Reception and Dinner at BMW Welt. While strolling through, it is easy to forget why the carmaker built this more than €200 million palace. This stunning solar-powered shrine to German auto engineering is the world's largest permanent BMW automobile exhibition, car delivery and futuristic showroom. Experience marketing brilliance while mingling with friends, enjoying tantalizing appetizers and taking in the art BMW has to offer.
Spouse Program
Spouses are invited to participate in all Global Forum events, receptions and dinners. NACS will also have a hospitality lounge available providing attendees a place to gather during the day (light refreshments will be provided). There will be local representatives available to provide city information and to assist with sightseeing and dinner reservations.
There will be two spouse tours available. Both are included in the spouse registration fee:
Munich Highlights Walking Tour
Sunday, 15 June
According to Frommer's, a walk through Munich is the only real way to capture the true essence of the city. This guided tour takes us to the most popular sites where you will hear the stories behind Munich's history and receive insider tips on top venues. This tour serves as an introduction to the richness and variety of Germany's most beautiful city.
Happy Birthday Munich!
Celebrate Munich's 850th birthday on 15 June. We will be passing through the celebration during the Munich Highlights Walking Tour. The motto of the birthday celebration is "Building Bridges" and it aims to connect the founding of the city with today's lively, colorful, yet tradition-oriented urban culture. Enjoy the Town Foundation Festival taking place between Marienplatz, Stachus and Odeonsplatz. This fun-filled festival will include 10,000 performers in traditional costume and artists of all kinds showing the diversity of the town's cultural life.
Royal Castle Herrenchiemsee Tour
Monday, 16 June
Tour King Ludwig II's last, most extravagant project, Herrenchiemsee Palace. It is a replica of the palace of Versailles. Erected in 1878, this regal palace cost more than his other two castles (Neuschwanstein and Linderhof) combined. The undoubtable highlight of the castle is the magnificent Hall of Mirrors. See French stylized gardens with imposing marble fountains and long, winding pathways that lead down to the shores of Lake Chiemsee. Participants will enjoy a guided tour of the castle, additional area sightseeing and lunch.
CIES World Food Business Summit
Following the NACS Global Forum, attendees are encouraged to register for the CIES World Food Business Summit from 18 to 20 June featuring all day store visits and a full educational program, both also in Munich. CIES has extended the member price to all NACS Members who are attending the NACS Global Forum. For more information or to register, please contact Rhoda Lane-O'Kelly at (+33) 1 44 69 84 88 or summit@ciesnet.com.