"While the AWMA name has served us well, it has presented some challenges. Every time we go to Capitol Hill we have to explain who it is we represent,” says Scott Ramminger, president and ceo. “Convenience Distribution Association is pretty clear. While we were making other changes, it was a great time to get the name right."

The name change will phase in over the next few months.

Rob Sincavich, president of Team Sledd, Wheeling, Wyo., says the new name describes the organization more effectively.

 “It is who we are. It is what we do," he explains. "We distribute convenience products institutionally. When we talk to our government representatives, they will know who we are and what we do. It makes sense.”

The board also endorsed additional programs to enhance the association, including:

• Increased emphasis on government affairs, including the launch of a sophisticated on-line State Advocacy Center.
• Beefed up industry affairs and member engagement efforts, supported by the hiring of two industry veterans: Steve Shing, formerly with GSC Enterprises, Inc., as v.p. of member engagement; and David Dresser, formerly of Core-Mark International, Inc., as v.p. of program development.
• Increased collaboration with a wide range of other industry associations in an effort to improve the efficacy of programs and encourage supply chain collaboration and efficiency.
• The establishment of a series of "communities" designed to allow collaboration and learning, both at person-to-person gatherings, and in a new custom-built on-line portal.
• Establishment of a Manufacturer Advisory Council designed to get greater input from manufacturer partners.
• New emphasis on digital content delivery to members, allowing the association to provide more information to members, and to make that content more readily available.