Guide to Success


This primer is for first-time attendees and seasoned participants who are interested in maximizing their opportunities at the NACDS Total Store Expo. It has been developed by members of the NACDS Retail Advisory Board and is based on their collective experiences.

Welcome to TSE!

​What Sets the Total Store Expo Apart

Who Attends

Retail senior management teams responsible for operating the business including: marketing, merchandising, supply chain, operations, information technology and related functions in both CPG and pharmacy, and their associate member/supplier counterparts.

During the Exhibit Hall hours, it is common to see senior, multifunctional executives of major retail organizations meet with their counterparts from leading CPG or pharmaceutical companies. The meetings are vibrant, the exchanges are sometimes animated, and the results can be profound.

Exhibit Hall Format & Appointments

The Total Store Expo is an appointment-based trade show. Although many retailers do walk the aisles looking for new companies and ideas, it is STRONGLY recommended you make appointments well in advance of the meeting.

We encourage associate members to contact the specific companies and individuals you would like to meet with during the Total Store Expo. As a registrant, you will be able to obtain contact information for all attendees.

Networking Opportunities

NACDS has carefully formatted the Total Store Expo to create opportunities for Exhibitors and Retailers to interact. Successful Exhibitors take full advantage of these opportunities to meet Retailers and start conversations.

The daily Networking Continental Breakfasts, Exhibit Hall Lunches and evening receptions are great opportunities to meet new prospects and reconnect with partners.

Download the NACDS Events App

Navigate NACDS Meetings and Conferences like a pro with the mobile app, developed to enhance attendee experience.

With the NACDS Events app, users can:

  • Get the most up-to-date conference information
  • Personalize your schedule
  • Search for participating companies
  • View the floor plan and bookmark favorites
Download on the App Store Get it on Google Play
Converge

August 12-14, 2023

San Diego, CA

Register Now

Don’t be left out of the biggest, most productive drug, food, and mass market event of the year!