NACS has released the new NACS Category Definitions & Numbering Guide–Version 8.0 that reflects current market conditions. The new category definitions take effect in 2022 and mark the first major update since 2010.

Category definitions provide a common language for retailers, suppliers and manufacturers to establish a framework for discussions about benchmarking and market performance at the store level. Version 8.0, developed by the NACS Research & Technology Committee, significantly updates the last broad iteration, Version 7.0, and the more minor updates in Version 7.2 in 2014. NACS released its first guide, the Category Definitions & Numbering Guide 1.0, in 1998. Since then, industry sales have grown from $186 billion to $648 billion, and pretax profits have experienced a similar growth curve.

Common category definitions are the building blocks that help convenience retailers develop marketing strategies and category management plans. These common category definitions are a key part of the CSX database, the dynamic, self-reported subscription database that serves the convenience and petroleum marketing industry and its stakeholders.

What’s New: Key Enhancements

The latest iteration of category definitions includes a mapping guideline to assist in product reclassification, when appropriate. Descriptions are also provided for all subcategories, and 11 new subcategories have been identified including ready-to-drink coffee, bakery, alcoholic seltzer, E15 and many others. To check out the full list of changes, visit www.convenience.org/categorydefinitions.

Implementation Deadline

Updates to category definitions will take effect beginning in 2022. NACS has released Version 8.0 nearly a full year in advance of implementation to allow retailers—specifically category managers and IT support teams—enough time to review and update their classifications to reflect these new changes. The proactive release also allows critical industry software management and data analysis firms like PDI, NielsenIQ and IRI, additional lead time to remap their pricebook systems.