“What’s the most interesting thing you’ve learned today?”

When asked this question, many of the CAAR Conference attendees’ answers were widely varied.

However, a common theme linked many of their standout thoughts: that our industry is constantly evolving, and events like the CAAR Conference highlight new and innovative ways to adapt and grow an agri-retail business.

Today’s first speaker, Dr. Allan Gray from Purdue University, presented the information collected in the Large Commercial Producer Survey in an interactive way: he asked a question about retailer perceptions of the producer survey results, and invited conference attendees to send in their answers via text. The results of the text replies were shown in real time on-screen, after which Dr. Gray shared the results from the producer survey. The discrepancies between the answers provided some illuminating food for thought for many of those in attendance.

Emerson Csorba brought conference attendees an in-depth look at the next generation of retailers and customers with his presentation on Understanding Generation Y. Standout ideas included the millennial mindset, and the strategies employers can use to retain Gen Y candidates.

Justin Funk captured the audience’s attention with his detailed and thought-provoking examination of producer perspectives on agri-retail salespeople. His research provided insight into challenges that retailers face, and the motivations and needs of their producer customers.

Wednesday’s three featured speakers also came together for a special segment in the conference program: a collaborative panel where they discussed the impact of their respective topics on customer engagement and loyalty. Anyone looking for a transcript of this discussion needs to look no further than the next issue of The Communicator!

The brief AGM took place just before lunch on the trade show floor, and outlined CAAR’s achievements in the past calendar year, including a positive turnaround of the association’s financials.

After the meeting and speaker sessions were complete, the trade show floor was abuzz with the sounds of agri-retailers excited to network and learn about industry developments.

After an hour’s interlude for cocktails and connections, the CAAR Pro-Ag Investments Auction got under way. Auctioneers Dallas and Sheldon ignited the stage with their trademark wit and lightning-speed vocal skills. The lucky top bidders took home fabulous donated prizes that ranged from agriculture equipment and crop inputs to exotic hunting trips and personal electronics.

CAAR's Choice Awards Banquet

The CAAR’s Choice Awards Banquet was the final chapter in a busy and fulfilling day. Winners included Al Raine (Chairman’s Award), McEwen’s Fuels and Fertilizers (Retailer of the Year), Troy LaForge (Agronomist of the Year), Richardson Pioneer (4R Nutrient Stewardship Agri-Retailer) and a very special and sentimental tribute to Retailer Hall of Fame winner Dave Wendland.

Cash Cab's Adam Growe rounded out the night with a laugh-out-loud comedy and trivia show that got many attendees up out of their seats.

After a long, exciting and productive day, the CAAR staff are now winding down the evening, and eagerly anticipating tomorrow’s speaker sessions and special announcements. We look forward to seeing you bright and early at TCU Place!

Still not registered? Click here for walk-up registration information.