<div><p paraid="466449525" paraeid="{90b30e73-b0e6-41f3-8e19-2386c71d6dcf}{187}">By: Rebecca Daniels, Director, Education, FMI </p></div><div><p paraid="78223775" paraeid="{90b30e73-b0e6-41f3-8e19-2386c71d6dcf}{193}"><img src="https://www.fmi.org/images/default-source/blog-images/es-d-participants.tmb-large-350-.jpg?Culture=en&sfvrsn=908a9d68_1" style="float:right;margin:10px;" class="-align-right" alt="ES+D Participants" sf-size="139706" />In 2024, food retail energy, refrigeration and store development professionals must prioritize energy efficiency, sustainability and regulatory compliance. Rising energy costs and stringent environmental standards drive the adoption of renewable energy solutions, advanced CO2 refrigeration technologies and green building designs. Integrating IoT technologies for real-time monitoring enhances operational efficiency and predictive maintenance, while continuous workforce training ensures the effective use of these advanced systems. </p></div><div><p paraid="2037853886" paraeid="{90b30e73-b0e6-41f3-8e19-2386c71d6dcf}{199}">Meeting consumer expectations for eco-friendly practices and high-quality products requires creating energy-efficient, aesthetically pleasing store environments. Building resilient supply chains through local sourcing and strategic stock levels is essential to mitigate global disruptions. By focusing on these areas, professionals can drive innovation, improve sustainability, and boost operational efficiency, positioning their businesses for success in 2024 and beyond. </p></div><div><p paraid="821079169" paraeid="{90b30e73-b0e6-41f3-8e19-2386c71d6dcf}{205}">The <a href="https://www.fmi.org/forms/RedirectForm/?dest=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.fmi.org%2Fenergy-and-store-development-conference&utm_campaign=esd24&utm_source=blog_ESD24_July2024&utm_medium=blog" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2024 FMI Energy & Store Development Conference</a>, held September 23-25, in Baltimore, is your opportunity to learn from industry experts, gain practical solutions, and network with peers. Here’s what you can expect: </p></div><ul><li><p paraid="471246965" paraeid="{90b30e73-b0e6-41f3-8e19-2386c71d6dcf}{218}"><strong>Emissions and Compliance:</strong> Building New or Converting Old Stores Discover how to manage emissions and ensure compliance when developing new stores or converting old ones. Learn strategies to reduce global warming impacts and create a roadmap for sustainability. </p></li><li><p paraid="743002354" paraeid="{90b30e73-b0e6-41f3-8e19-2386c71d6dcf}{226}"><strong>Practical Solutions Tailored to Your Needs: </strong>Identify sustainable practices that fit your specific situation and budget. Balance affordability with compliance and develop a strategy that meets regulatory standards. </p></li><li><p paraid="330502012" paraeid="{90b30e73-b0e6-41f3-8e19-2386c71d6dcf}{234}"><strong>Sustainability and Regulatory Updates:</strong> Stay updated on the latest sustainability regulations and understand how to navigate them to enhance your business’s sustainability efforts. </p></li><li><p paraid="1466288904" paraeid="{90b30e73-b0e6-41f3-8e19-2386c71d6dcf}{242}"><strong>Supply Chain and Project Forecasting:</strong> Receive expert guidance on managing supply chain challenges, especially in designing new stores and forecasting projects. Learn how to anticipate and address potential disruptions to maintain smooth operations. </p></li><li><p paraid="1999297172" paraeid="{90b30e73-b0e6-41f3-8e19-2386c71d6dcf}{250}"><strong>Technological Advancements and Future Trends:</strong> Explore the latest technologies and future trends, including AI’s impact on the industry. Leverage these advancements to improve efficiency and compliance in your operations. </p></li><li><p paraid="1108366964" paraeid="{5c0fc7be-a271-4c26-87b3-a04de943cf4a}{3}"><strong>Navigating Regulatory Seasons:</strong> Get practical advice on navigating complex regulatory landscapes during peak seasons. Understand DOE and EPA regulations and learn from case studies to maintain compliance and smooth operations. </p></li><li><p paraid="131166002" paraeid="{5c0fc7be-a271-4c26-87b3-a04de943cf4a}{11}"><strong>Actionable Takeaways:</strong> Leave with actionable takeaways to build a robust development strategy. Access expert information and practical solutions directly applicable to your business. </p></li><li><p paraid="144930427" paraeid="{5c0fc7be-a271-4c26-87b3-a04de943cf4a}{19}"><strong>Expert Insights and Peer Networking:</strong> Connect with industry experts for valuable advice. Build a network of peers and resources to support your implementation of new strategies. Engage in meaningful networking to exchange ideas for success. </p></li><li><p paraid="33886642" paraeid="{5c0fc7be-a271-4c26-87b3-a04de943cf4a}{27}"><strong>Collaborative Approach:</strong> Embrace collaboration and join a community of like-minded professionals. Share experiences, solutions, and strategies to face challenges together. </p></li></ul><div><p paraid="967441975" paraeid="{5c0fc7be-a271-4c26-87b3-a04de943cf4a}{35}">By attending the <a href="https://www.fmi.org/forms/RedirectForm/?dest=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.fmi.org%2Fenergy-and-store-development-conference&utm_campaign=esd24&utm_source=blog_ESD24_July2024&utm_medium=blog" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FMI Energy & Store Development Conference</a>, you will be equipped with the knowledge, tools, and network necessary to navigate the evolving landscape of store development, refrigeration, and energy management. Stay ahead of the curve and work towards a sustainable future. Join us to drive your business forward! </p></div><div><p paraid="1509330230" paraeid="{5c0fc7be-a271-4c26-87b3-a04de943cf4a}{46}"><a href="https://www.fmi.org/forms/RedirectForm/?dest=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.fmi.org%2Fenergy-and-store-development-conference&utm_campaign=esd24&utm_source=blog_ESD24_July2024&utm_medium=blog" target="_blank" class="button">Register today! </a></p></div>
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