SAES Connects Association Leaders on Policy, Innovation and Shared Priorities
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| Watch the video for a recap of this year's SAES. |
Seventeen state and regional association executives representing 32 states gathered in Washington, D.C., Oct. 29–30, 2026, for CDA’s State Association Executive Summit (SAES), where election insights, practical AI tools and industry discussions sparked ideas and strengthened connections. Held at the University Club, the summit offered opportunities to share strategies, learn from peers and advance shared priorities for the convenience distribution industry.
Held just days before the election, SAES featured an “Election Countdown” discussion with David Avella of GOPAC and Meghan Hays of West Shore Strategies, moderated by CDA Policy Advisor J.P. Dowd. The conversation offered perspectives from both sides of the political aisle on the races to watch and potential implications for the policy landscape ahead.
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Richard Owen, CDA president and CEO, welcomes
association executives to day two of SAES. |
The focus then turned to association operations with Patti Rausch of the National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors (NAW) sharing practical ways association executives can put AI to work within their organizations, with a focus on helping small teams save time and expand their capacity. The session sparked conversations that continued into the break as attendees compared experiences and explored potential applications.
Industry briefings from Altria Group Distribution Company, ITG Brands, LLC, PMI U.S. and Reynolds provided additional opportunities to discuss priorities affecting the convenience distribution industry and the role of state and regional associations in addressing them.
A dedicated State Executive Exchange gave participants time to share ideas, compare approaches and learn from one another’s successes and challenges. Returning after strong feedback from last year’s summit, the session reinforced a central benefit of SAES: connecting executives who understand the convenience distribution industry and the challenges their members face, with insights drawn from addressing similar issues in their own states and regions.
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| Association executives took part in a tour of Washington, D.C., that featured several landmarks, including the Lincoln Memorial. |
"It's a great opportunity to learn more about our industry, about what's happening in other areas of the country, and lessons you can take back to your home state," said Matt Cota, Vermont Retail & Grocers Association. "Creating that network of resources is incredibly valuable."
Conversations continued over meals and an evening tour of Washington, D.C., strengthening relationships that support collaboration well beyond the two-day gathering.
“Now in its 11th year, SAES drew one of its largest turnouts,” said CDA President and CEO Richard Owen. “I’m pleased to see the event grow, but I’m especially energized by the relationships built among state association leaders.”
CDA thanks Altria Group Distribution Company, ITG Brands, LLC, PMI U.S. and Reynolds for making the summit possible. Their continued support brings association executives together to share expertise, build connections and advance the industry’s shared interests.
View the photos and the video from this year’s SAES.
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Ross Bown, PMI U.S., reviews various industry
topics to begin SAES. |
Association executives take in the view of the Capitol building during Friday's lunch, hosted by Altria Group Distribution Company. |
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| During Thursday night's dinner hosted by Reynolds, Kyle May gives a toast to the importance of industry collaboration. |
Scott Schaier leads a discussion with association executives during Friday's breakfast, sponsored by ITG Brands, LLC. |