The 2026 topic is:
How should the convenience industry evolve to attract and retail the next generation of consumers while staying relevant to existing customers?
Register to Enter
The opportunity has come for those in the convenience industry to shine on the local stage once again and win one of two fantastic prizes.
The Peter Jowett Scholarship Award is a unique opportunity for NZACS members to challenge others in New Zealand in thinking about our industry.
Who can enter?
Employees from Retailer and Supplier member companies are invited to select candidates between 21 and 36 years of age for the 2026 competition. Candidates must be no older than 36 years of age on 31st of May 2026.
The Prize
The Winner and Runner Up will win a trip to the AACS study tour in September.
Queensland September 15th – 17th
Set against the vibrant backdrop of Southeast Queensland, this tour will showcase some of Australia’s most exciting convenience stores, service stations, and small format retail operations across Brisbane, the Gold Coast, and surrounding regions. You’ll gain fresh insights into local market trends, operational best practices, and retail innovations, while connecting with senior executives and industry peers.
The Process
Participants will be required to register their interest by April 30th by emailing Dave Hooker dave@retailworx.co.nz
No more than 2 finalists per company may compete in the final. Companies that have more than 2 entrants are required to shortlist their finalists by June 13th.
Participants will be required to submit the following by emailing Dave Hooker dave@retailworx.co.nz by June 13th
- 10-15 slide PowerPoint presentation (include brief explanation of each slide)
- An executive summary covering the following:
- Your plan / idea (what is your idea)
ii. The argument (addressing the topic)
iii. The reasons (how your idea will work)
iv. Summary - Presenter biography (e.g. who you are, your career path) no more than 100 words.
If there are more than six submissions the NZACS committee will assess all submissions and select the six finalists. These will be confirmed by June 26th.
These finalists will present their 10–12 minute presentation at the Peter Jowett and Industry Awards event scheduled for August 3rd in Auckland.
The audience of members present will vote on the presentations and select the best three presentations.
Scoring for selection of finalists & finals
> Addresses the question 40%
> Innovative thinking 25%
> Idea could be implemented 25%
> Quality of presentation 10% (Finals night only)