One of the most common questions I get about PDI Connections Live is why it makes sense to send multiple people from one company. I admit that’s a good question to ask, especially when budgets are tight. 

My typical response is that the focus on in-depth training for this conference makes it unique in our industry. When you invest in PDI solutions, you clearly want to maximize your investment. The best way to do that is to become as proficient with those solutions as possible. 

Our goal at Connections Live 2025 is to deliver the deep technical training your organization needs to thrive. This year, that includes: 

• 160+ classes 

• 86 advanced-level classes 

• 26 hands-on classes 

• 24-hour networking labs 

• Almost unlimited peer networking opportunities 

A proven history of team training 

That covers why someone would want to attend. To answer why anyone would send multiple people, I lean on the feedback we’ve received from previous attendees. In the early years of the conference, we discovered that team training became a force multiplier for many organizations. 

Instead of attendees overlapping with each other and diminishing the overall training experience, we kept hearing how organizations were seeing even greater value by sending a full team. By working in groups, attendees can apply their shared knowledge and learn from each other’s diverse experiences as they: 

• Build practical, real-world technical skills 

• Collaborate more effectively 

• Exchange best practices 

• Learn directly from PDI product experts 

• Cross-train across roles for greater versatility 

In addition, we offer multiple full role-based tracks for attendees. If you want to send different employees focused on wholesale, technology, accounting, pricebook, loyalty, or security, there’s a unique track for each attendee. 

Big savings with Group Discount Bundles 

Team training is so important that we offer a Group Discount for any organization or parent company that sends multiple attendees to Connections Live 2025. Here’s how much you can save: 

You can get all the details about Group Discount Bundles here. 

Please note that you must purchase your bundle by June 15. 

Savings for individual attendees 

If you want to attend Connections Live 2025 but aren’t part of a group, you can still save big: 

• Use the Early-Bird Discount to save $400 off the standard conference rate 

• Register ASAP, because this discount ends on June 30 

If you have any questions about Group Discount Bundles or Connections Live in general, just let us know at: connectionslive@pditechnologies.com. 

We can’t wait to see you this August in Denver! 

Check out what your peers think 

Sign up today

Register now for Connections Live 2025!

What: PDI Connections Live 2025
When: August 24-27
Where: Gaylord Rockies Resort in Denver, CO

Are you ready for another year of the industry’s premier training and networking event? That’s right. We’re already in full preparation mode for PDI Connections Live 2025.

This year, we’re returning to one of our most popular destinations—the Gaylord Rockies Resort in Denver, Colorado. If you’ve been there previously, you won’t believe the amazing upgrades they’ve made. And, if you’ve never stayed at the resort, you’re in for a treat.

At last year’s conference in Washington, DC, we hosted over 1000 attendees representing the full spectrum of roles from across the fuel and convenience ecosystem. This year we’re ramping up the training with even more classes, including exactly what you’ve asked for: more hands-on and advanced training.

If you’re looking to build your technical skills, expand your knowledge, and make valuable industry connections, this info-packed event is right up your alley.

What to expect (for new attendees)

If you haven’t attended one of our previous conferences—or you attended way back in the pre-COVID years—our focus is on delivering an immersive 4-day learning experience with:

• Classes and tracks for different roles and levels of experience
• Hands-on training to match your specific needs
• Networking to get 1:1 assistance from PDI technical experts
• Industry leadership tips and best practices

And that’s just for the training element of the conference. The other key focus area is helping you make impactful connections with:

• Speed networking sessions where you can get to know other attendees with similar interests
• An Expo area where you can mix with PDI experts and industry vendors
• Casual networking events like the Welcome Reception, Game Night, and Big Night Out (our customer appreciation party)

What’s new for 2025

We love all your feedback and recommendations for making Connections Live as valuable as possible. After all, this customer-driven conference depends on your active participation. Based on what you’ve requested, this year’s conference will include:

• Additional advanced-level classes
• More hands-on training opportunities
• New ways to influence the PDI product strategy
• A greater focus on loyalty and CPG brand/retailer collaboration

How to get the best conference rate

If you plan to join us in Denver, be sure to get the best rate. Here are two ways to save big:

• Individuals: Use the Super Early-Bird Discount  to save $600 off the standard conference rate. This discount ends on May 31, so register soon!
• Groups: If your company sends 5 to 9 attendees, you can save $700 per person. If you send 10 or more, you can save $800 per person. You must purchase your Group Discount Bundle by June 15.

Find more PDI resources

In addition to our annual Connections Live conference, we’ve recently broadened the overall PDI Connections experience with:

• Support resources, forums, and knowledge exchange on the PDI Connections online platform
• Live training courses, on-demand videos, user group conversations, and thought leadership resources on PDI University (an All-Access Pass unlocks nearly limitless opportunities for your entire organization)
• Connections Live Quarterly events to keep you up to speed on the latest news and industry trends

I hope to see you in Denver!

Sign up today

Register now for Connections Live 2025!

What: PDI Connections Live 2025
When: August 24-27
Where: Gaylord Rockies Resort in Denver, CO

Interested in becoming a sponsor for Connections Live 2025?
A few remaining sponsorship spots are available. Please reach out to us if you’d like to explore a conference sponsorship opportunity.

It’s everyone’s favorite time of the year! Yes, Tax Season is almost here, so let’s dive into some big changes in regard to how you can leverage our ERP product, PDI Enterprise, to file your 1099 forms with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). 

Reduce filing time with a new shortcut 

In the past few years, you’ve needed to upgrade to the “Year End Version” of PDI Enterprise in order to file with the IRS. This year, we’ve compiled the year-end changes required for filing into a SQL script that you can run on PDI Enterprise Version 12.1 or greater. This low-impact SQL script can be a great alternative if you’re just trying to complete your tax filings rather than access all the new features of a full Enterprise release. 

To request the SQL script, simply submit a case through PDI Connections. If you’ve already submitted a case through PDI Hosting Services to upgrade to the Enterprise “Year End Version” but are only looking for the 1099 changes, you can change your case request to the SQL script. That step will significantly reduce the amount of post-upgrade testing required for your system. To learn more about this update, check out this announcement. 

Don’t forget about these upcoming deadlines 

One general reminder: If you haven’t upgraded your system to the “Year End Version” or run the SQL script, be sure to do so ASAP. As always, those tax filing deadlines are going to be here sooner than you think. If you’re ahead of the game and ready to begin your e-filing process, note that the IRS Filing Information Returns Electronically (FIRE) production system is slated to go live after its annual upgrade on January 13, 2025. 

You can visit the IRS website for the most up-to-date version of the filing deadlines. And, if you need to file an extension, you can upload Form 8809 through the FIRE system online. 

Check out these additional resources 

If you happen to be the lucky person filing 1099s for the first time and are feeling a bit lost, don’t despair! PDI has a wide variety of resources to help you navigate the process. 

First, make sure you download the Year End Guide from PDI Connections on the Enterprise Solutions Page. This step-by-step guide explains how to generate your 1099 files. You can also access helpful classes through a PDI University All-Access Pass on PDI Connections. 

If you still find yourself looking for help, it’s time to call in the PDI experts—our team of experienced financial consultants can get you through this process. Just be sure to submit a consulting case as soon as possible and we’d be happy to discuss your unique situation. 

In the meantime, here are some useful links for tax season: 

• PDI Connections Year End Announcement: Information on the year end changes to Enterprise 

• IRS E-Filing with FIRE System: Information for electronic filing of 1099s 

• About Form W-9: Instructions on requesting tax information 

• About Form 8809: Instruction on filing for extensions 

• About TIN Matching: Resources for using the TIN Matching service 

• PDI All-Access Pass: Information on PDI University training and resources 

A dream of Spring 

Yes, I realize 2025 has only just begun, and we’re already experiencing some turbulent windfall. Tax processing doesn’t have to be something that adds to your stress levels. I encourage you to reach out to us via PDI Connections if you need any assistance. Good luck preparing for Tax Season! 

Position your business for continued success 

By “Connecting Convenience” across the industry ecosystem, PDI can help you and your business succeed throughout the year. Contact us today to learn how we can help you transform your business. 

A warm introduction from Linnea Geiss, Chief Operating Officer at PDI Technologies

Were you able to participate in the inaugural Connections Live Virtual EMEA event? If so, I hope you found it valuable for optimizing your daily operations and planning your business strategy for 2025 and beyond. 

If you weren’t able to attend, I wanted to share some key takeaways from this event that brought together industry leaders and innovators from the fuel and convenience industry across the EMEA region. 

Here’s a snapshot of four key items we covered in the virtual event. 

1. PDI’s global expansion and initiatives: why that matters to you 

Linnea Geiss, COO at PDI, kicked off the event by highlighting PDI’s global expansion, including operations spanning 60 countries. Linnea shared three major industry trends from her discussions with customers: optimizing enterprise productivity, meeting consumers where they are, and operating securely. 

As part of this global expansion, Dawn Desai, SVP & GM International Solutions, covered the company’s initiatives across six key pillars: brand, people, customers, innovation, operations, and continued stability to better serve the industry. Pointing toward the future, Dawn highlighted the focus areas of PDI’s next chapter of growth and investment in the industry. 

2. Loyalty marketing, supply chain integration, and data-driven decision making 

Can you guess what some of the biggest industry game-changers in the past few years have been? Kathryn Duque, VP of Product Management, discussed the importance of investing in data-driven loyalty marketing. Next up, Mark Evans, VP of Product Management, emphasized the productivity benefits gained from a fully integrated fuel supply chain. And David Anderson, VP of Commercial Operations, explained the growing role data plays in helping both retailers and wholesalers make more-informed decisions. 

3. Regional insights from industry legends 

One of the best moments of the event was the industry panel discussion moderated by Oscar Smith Diamante, Editor-in-Chief at MobilityPlaza, and featuring prominent industry figures. Frank Brennan, Chairman, National Oil Reserve, covered the impact of the 2035 EU directive for zero tailpipe emissions and the importance of investing in food and convenience services. Then we heard from Brian Donaldson, Maxol CEO, who shared strategies for exceptional customer service, digitalization, and sustainability—highlighting the company’s collaboration with PDI. 

You can view the replay of the panel discussion here. 

4. The next wave: PDI solution updates 

To close out the event, the PDI EMEA team updated everyone about the PDI portfolio of industry-specific solutions. Attendees learned about recent product enhancements as well as the future direction for key PDI solutions in the region. 

Brought to you by Connections Live Virtual EMEA

Tune in as the convenience industry’s top minds share actionable insights and best practices you can apply to your business today. 

You’ll learn about the transformation of service stations, sustainability, data-driven decision making, as well as supply chain disruptions and labor shortages. 

Moderator: Oscar Smith Diamante, Editor-in-Chief, MobilityPlaza 

Speakers: 

• Frank Gleeson: Chairman, National Oil Reserve 
• Brian Donaldson: CEO, Maxol 
• David Anderson: VP Commercial Operations, PDI Technologies 
• Marcel Steigerwald: Director Product Management, PDI Technologies 

Honoring Our Brand and Associates

PDI Technologies is proud to recognize our brand and associates. We are honored that our expertise and hard work are celebrated in our industry, the regions we serve, and beyond. Join us in celebrating!

Company Recognition  

2024 Retailer Choice Best New Products, Point of Sale (POS), CSP – 2024

Atlanta’s Largest Private Companies, #37, Atlanta Business Chronicle – 2024

Top 40 Most Innovative Technology Companies, Technology Association of Georgia(TAG) – 2024 

Georgia Fast 40, Association for Corporate Growth (ACG) – 2024 

Top 10 Most Innovative Technology Companies, Technology Association of Georgia (TAG) – 2023 

Georgia Fast 40, Association for Corporate Growth (ACG) – 2023 

Associates Awards 

Jessica Jobin, Golden SWAN, Up-and-Comer, SIGMA – 2024

Vicki Thorne, Golden SWAN, Marketing & Advertising Professional, SIGMA – 2024

Nicole Petersen, 2024 Future Leader in Convenience, Convenience Store News – 2024 

Mike Procopio, Finalist in the 2024 class of Industry Innovators, Butane-Propane News – 2024 

Nicole Wu, CFO of the Year, Atlanta Business Chronicle – 2024 

Jimmy Frangis, Entrepreneur Of The Year® 2024 Southeast Finalist, EY – 2024 

Jay Warner, Corporate Development Professionals to Watch, Association for Corporate Growth (ACG) and Middle Market Growth Magazine – 2024 

Traci Fulmer, Top Women in Convenience – Mentor, Convenience Store News – 2024 

Linnea Geiss & Jay Warner, Dealmaker of the Year, Smart Business Atlanta – 2024 

Bethany Allee, Top Women in Convenience – Senior-Level Leaders, Convenience Store News – 2023 

Jimmy Frangis, 2023 Most Admired CEO, Atlanta Business Chronicle – 2023 

Linnea Geiss, 2023 Women of Influence, Atlanta Business Chronicle – 2023 

Streamlining Sustainability

PDI Sustainability Solutions experts created a turnkey carbon offset program for Corpay to:

• Differentiate its business services
• Help customers reduce their carbon footprint
• Gain a unique competitive advantage

Business Challenges

• Develop flexible yet comprehensive sustainability programs for a wide range of customers
• Ensure a reliable way to quickly measure, validate, and report on program performance and results

Solution Overview – PDI Sustainability Consulting and Solutions

Whether you’re just starting out or well into your sustainability journey, PDI offers turnkey solutions and expert consulting services that help you differentiate your brand with eco-friendly programs your customers will love. Now you can get a custom-built program with measurable performance and independently verified results.

Read more about PDI Sustainability Solutions

Customer Results

• Helped customers achieve their corporate sustainability goals
• Collectively offset carbon for over two billion gallons of fuel
• Outpaced anticipated performance with a 186% ROI

Streamlining Fuel Deliveries

Stringer Oil and LP Gas deployed the PDI ERP (legacy Blue Cow Ignite) solution to:

• Modernize its technology foundation
• Consolidate forecasting, ordering, and delivery operations on a single solution
• Increase efficiency and save money it could reinvest in the business

Business Challenges

• Outdated technology that was causing delivery and backtracking issues
• Complex, manual processes that consumed valuable time, resources, and money

Solution Overview – PDI Propane and Commercial Fueling

To help reduce costs, boost your team’s productivity, and elevate your customer service, turn to PDI Propane and Commercial Fueling solutions (heritage Blue Cow Software Ignite products). Our propane and fuel oil enterprise solutions can help you simplify your operations with a single source of truth everyone on your team can rely on.

Read more about PDI Propane and Commercial Fueling

Customer Results

• Simplified processes by automating tasks and minimizing the need for phone calls
• Improved customer service by empowering drivers with easy-to-use tablet-based solutions
• Reduced backtracking by 90%

If you missed PDI Connections Live 2024, you missed out on an incredible experience that brought together the best and brightest in the convenience industry. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with this recap of the event’s most memorable moments.

If you want more background about the event, please check out this blog post. And, while we’re at it, don’t forget to pre-register for Connections Live 2025 in Denver, Colorado.

Now that Connections Live 2024 is in the books, I must admit I feel absolutely exhausterated! That’s my unique way of saying that I’m both exhausted and exhilarated. We had such a blast this year, and I want to shout out a sincere THANK YOU to all our attendees on behalf of the entire PDI team.

It’s always a fantastic reminder that PDI has some of the most loyal and impressive customers and partners I’ve ever been around. And I’m continually amazed at the collaborative nature of our fuel and convenience ecosystem.

If you’ve attended one of our annual conferences in the past few years, you’ve witnessed a steady evolution toward the “Connections Live” rebranding. Our goal is to emphasize long-lasting relationships and connections—and make sure we’re delivering even more of what you’ve been asking for.

This was my third conference, and I felt the energy, enthusiasm, and excitement went to an entirely new level. In case you weren’t able to attend, here’s a recap video along with some of my personal highlights from the four-day event.

Multiple PDI Customer User Group meetings: Driving product innovation

The Customer User Group sessions invited many new members to get the latest product roadmaps and updates. Both the retail and wholesale groups held multiple meetings during the event, where members shared their feedback on PDI solutions.

CPG Brands at center stage: Insights for retailers

As part of the expansion of Connections Live, we offered several new sessions to enhance CPG and retailer collaboration. In addition, PDI’s Brandon Logsdon led a main stage panel of experts from leading CPG brands who offered their unique perspectives and explored how brands and retailers can work more effectively.

Keynote Speaker Mike Abrashoff: Leadership lessons from the USS Benfold

Our keynote speaker, Mike Abrashoff, mixed in some humor, practical advice, and inspirational insights from his experience as the Captain of the USS Benfold. I’m sure I wasn’t the only one who got a bit misty-eyed at times. Be sure to check out Mike and his leadership books here.

Speed Networking: Connecting attendees one conversation at a time

Many previous conference attendees have asked for dedicated time to make 1:1 connections beyond the after-hours networking events. Our solution was to test a “speed networking” concept where we matched up attendees and gave them five minutes to get to know each other in an afternoon session. The results were highly encouraging, so be on the lookout for another round of speed networking in 2025.

Latest solutions showcase: Innovation on display

We had 29 sponsor booths in the Expo this year, including both long-time sponsors and a few new ones. I want to extend a big thank you to all of them—we couldn’t produce such a first-class event without their continued support. It felt like I was getting a glimpse into the future when I entered the Connected Convenience Store at the center of the Expo. There were product demos, foodservice options, and some really cool electronic shelf labels—along with all the swag at the PDI pop-up store.

Women in Convenience Breakfast: Celebrating industry leaders

One of the items closest to my heart was the “Women in Convenience” breakfast, which drew over 200 attendees who heard from a panel of respected industry leaders. I can’t express how thankful (and excited) I am just to associate with such bright and innovative women in our industry!

Live “Over a Barrel” Podcasts: Industry insights in real time

Some lucky attendees were able to participate in two “Over a Barrel” podcasts featuring Patrick De Haan, GasBuddy’s Head of Petroleum Analysis. There was great interaction with the audience (who received good news about falling gas prices), and you can listen to the podcast episodes here.

Paradise on the Potomac: A tropical evening to remember

Yes, I’m biased, but I’d kick myself if I didn’t commend our marketing team for turning a hotel ballroom into a veritable tropical paradise. I love an excuse to dress up for a theme party and, judging by the proliferation of wild “island” attire, it seems like many of you do as well. Cheers to an incredible evening!

Game Night: Ping-pong, snacks, and fierce competition

In our second annual Game Night, we introduced a Ping-Pong Tournament that did not disappoint. I didn’t realize how competitive some of you “game warriors” are. Delicious snacks, drinks, games, and a few really big personalities—it all added up to some serious fun.

The Art of Storytelling: Crafting compelling brand narratives

Again, I’m biased, but one of the most engaging sessions was “The Art of Storytelling: Crafting Compelling Brand Narratives in the Convenience Space,” which I had the pleasure of co-hosting with the brilliant Frank Beard from Rovertown. In this interactive session, we explored the power of storytelling and shared proven strategies for creating brand narratives that resonate and leave a lasting impact.

During the session, attendees participated in exercises, group discussions, and thought-provoking Q&A, gaining valuable insights and practical techniques to elevate their brand’s storytelling game. A special thanks to Frank for being an incredible co-presenter and to all the attendees who made this session so memorable. Frank and I are also starting a networking and educational group for marketers within our industry. If you’re interested in joining, contact either Frank or me on LinkedIn.

Join us in Denver next year

If you were in DC, thanks again. I hope you found Connections Live 2024 as valuable as I did. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to connect with industry leaders, gain valuable insights, and have a blast at Connections Live 2025 in Denver, Colorado. Pre-register now to secure your spot and take advantage of early-bird discounts!

Schedule a Meeting at NACS Show 2024

If you’ll be at NACS Show 2024, we’d love to meet with you!

Schedule a meeting with us to discover how convenience retail, petroleum wholesale, and CPG businesses are transforming with PDI.

Building Loyalty for the Long Haul

Maxol worked with the PDI Sustainability Solutions experts to:

• Highlight Maxol’s commitment to sustainability
• Appeal to consumers who want more eco-friendly purchasing options
• Create greater long-term value for the Maxol brand

Business Challenges

• Create long-lasting brand affinity with differentiated fuel offerings
• Incentivize eco-conscious non-customers to switch to Maxol Premium Fuel

Solution Overview – PDI Sustainability Consulting and Solutions

Whether you’re just starting out or well into your sustainability journey, PDI offers turnkey solutions and expert consulting services that help you differentiate your brand with eco-friendly programs your customers will love. Now you can get a custom-built program with measurable performance and independently verified results.

Read more about PDI Sustainability Solutions

Customer Results

• Differentiated Maxol Premium Fuel with best-in-class carbon offsetting program
• Increased brand affinity for both existing and non-customers
• Improved reporting and measurement to better track program performance