(BRK.A), (BRK.B)
Berkshire Hathaway’s McLane Company, Inc. brought retailers, suppliers and industry partners together at McLane Engage 2026 for three days focused on innovation, collaboration and new opportunities for convenience retailers to grow their businesses.
A key highlight was the launch of McLane360, the company’s new digital customer platform. The unified system brings promotion ordering, delivery tracking and business insights together in one place, giving retailers greater visibility and helping them make faster, more informed decisions.
“McLane Engage is about moving our industry forward, and this year we put new, innovative tools into our partners’ hands,” said Vito Maurici, chief customer experience officer for McLane. “Whether it’s better technology, expanded foodservice offerings or stronger industry relationships, our focus is on helping our customers grow and operate with ease.”
Attendees also previewed new products across McLane’s portfolio, including Prendisimo Duo Slice Pizza, HiBird Dippin’ Sauce and a HiBird Sandwich with Mike’s Hot Honey, Central Eats PB&J Crunch and Grilled Cheese Sandwiches, new Roller Grill brat offerings from Johnsonville®, and Consumer Value Products’ Mini Crisp Cookies.
For the first time, McLane also hosted a Supplier Summit, featuring programming focused on collaboration, operational excellence, technology and shared growth. The event concluded with the McLane Supplier Awards, recognizing companies for achievements in areas including operations, category growth, philanthropy, logistics, digital leadership and emerging growth.
Technology and artificial intelligence were also prominent themes. Keynote speaker Sol Rashidi, a former Amazon executive and recognized AI leader, discussed practical ways businesses can move beyond AI hype and apply the technology to everyday operations and growth.
Additional sessions explored merchandising strategies, data-driven decision-making, customer experience and emerging convenience retail trends.
McLane Engage has become McLane’s premier annual industry event, providing a forum for retailers and suppliers to discover new products, share insights and explore solutions designed to strengthen the convenience retail industry.
©2026 David Mazor
Disclosure: David Mazor is a freelance writer focusing on Berkshire Hathaway. The author is long in Berkshire Hathaway, and this article is not a recommendation on whether to buy or sell the stock. The information contained in this article should not be construed as personalized or individualized investment advice. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.