Attending both the FCSI Symposium and NAFEM for the first time was an incredibly eye-opening experience. I arrived in Atlanta with clear expectations of what the week would entail, but the reality far exceeded them in every way.
The week kicked off with the FCSI Symposium, where I sat front and center with my Envision Strategies colleagues for the opening keynote: Gen Z Consumer Trends. Phil Gwoke, the speaker, began by asking attendees to raise their hands based on their generational identity. As he moved down the list, I was one of only two people in the room to raise my hand for Gen Z. His insights into the dining expectations of my generation set the tone for the rest of the week. This conversation sparked ongoing discussions within our team, prompting us to view each session through the lens of generational perspectives—one of the most valuable takeaways from the Symposium.
Throughout the sessions, we identified emerging trends and explored how they could apply to our work and client interactions. One of the most impactful discussions was The Power of Saying No—a session that resonated deeply with me. As someone who naturally gravitates toward saying “yes” in the pursuit of learning and growth, I often find it difficult to turn down opportunities. Hearing seasoned consultants share when and why it’s appropriate to say no was a revelation. It reinforced that saying no isn’t a negative act, but rather a strategic decision that can lead to greater focus and effectiveness.
As the Symposium wrapped and NAFEM began, my team asked me—over a classic Waffle House breakfast—what I was most eager to explore at the show. Given my experience working with universities over the past year, my immediate response was autonomous and unmanned vending solutions. What I saw completely exceeded my expectations. From autonomous pizza ovens to self-service lockers and heated grab-and-go machines, the level of technological innovation was astounding. I spent two days snapping photos and gathering insights to bring back to our team and clients.
Ultimately, the highlight of the entire week was the opportunity to connect with others in the industry. Engaging in conversations, exchanging perspectives, and learning from peers made for an incredibly rewarding experience. There’s no better way to spend a week than immersing yourself in new ideas, meaningful discussions, and the future of our industry. Cheers to a wonderful week in Atlanta … I’m already looking forward to attending the next show!