CONVENTIONS: 2005 SIGMA ANNUAL MEETING PREVIEW

SIGMA is gearing up for the 2005 Annual Meeting in Philadelphia, Pa., scheduled for October 21-23. Our universally popular meetings, renowned throughout the motor fuel marketing industry for relevant education, lively social activity and flawless execution, will deliver again this fall.

SIGMA is planning a number of networking events included in the cost of registration, featuring the Supplier Welcoming Reception and the All Industry Reception, as well as informal gatherings in the hotel’s restaurant and lounge, SoleFood. Here, you’ll find the perfect opportunity to mingle with your colleagues over drink specials, including wines by the glass, specialty cocktails and over 30 martini varieties.

There will also be a number of special events, which require a separate sign up and fee, for your entertainment. On Friday, choose from the SUNOCO Refinery Tour or the Philadelphia in High Style Tour that highlights gorgeous architectural structures throughout the city that current owners restored to their original splendor.

Your spouse will have a choice of two tours on Saturday, both imaginative and unique. Options include a visit to Winterthur, featuring a guided tour through the du Pont’s remarkable antique collection in 16 period rooms, a tram ride through the gardens and a lovely lunch buffet. Or, a tour of the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Rodin Museum, which includes a lunch at La Brasserie Perrier, one of the city’s premier French cuisine restaurants.

In addition to the special events, SIGMA is working on relevant and strategic educational sessions to help you thrive in the industry. This year’s educational opportunities include stimulating business discussions that will address achieving business growth, family business management and segregating executive-level job roles. SIGMA is also lining up stimulating speakers, including a Wall Street Journal writer who will highlight observations of the industry and industry experts who will keep you informed of the new developments in alternative fuels and ULSD.

The important ultra-low sulfur diesel session will arm you with all the information you need to bring your operation up-to-code in 2006 without breaking your business. Plus, educational workshops will highlight Real-Time Rack Pricing, Alternative Fuel Track (which covers biodiesel, ethanol and blending) and Financial Issues (which will address credit card fees, discounts for cash and ATMs).

All of this, plus committee and subcommittee meetings — like the signature Legislative Committee Meeting, where you can learn more about what Congress will have passed in the Energy and Highway bills — will provide you with the opportunity to network, learn more business strategies and celebrate your independence in Philadelphia!


Fast Facts
• Event: SIGMA 2005 Annual Meeting
• Dates: October 21-23
• Hotel: The Loews Philadelphia
• Location: Philadelphia, Pa.
• Information: (703) 709-7000