This month, CStore Decisions Editor John Lofstock speaks with Elie Y.Katz, President and CEO of National Retail Solutions (NRS) to discuss retail trends, including e-commerce, winning the battle for the last mile and expanding a loyalty program. With vast retail industry knowledge gained from having owned over a dozen retail establishments, Elie has refined insight…
Cigarettes Holding Strong Despite Volatility
High gas prices, increased legislation and inflationary pressure will continue to have a negative impact on cigarette sales, but despite these external factors, cigarettes continue to hold strong and remain a key driver of in-store sales. Cigarette dollar sales dropped 5.8% to $4.2 billion for the four weeks ending April 17, 2022, according to total…
Rutter’s Ups Starting Wage to $17 Per Hour
As the summer gets into full swing, Rutter’s announced another increase to its starting wage, which will now begin at $17.00 per hour. This is the company’s first increase in 2022, and sixth in three years. That is more than a 60% increase in wages, since December 2019. Rutter’s team members and field employees will…
How to Create a Return Policy That Builds Customer Loyalty
The return policy is one part of a small business that has shown to be critical in preserving a positive relationship between a company and its customers. Consumers need to feel comfortable with their purchases, and companies need to safeguard their products; thus, return policies are essential for both customers and company owners. Consumers should…
Alimentation Couche-Tard to Roll Out “Smart Checkout”
Alimentation Couche-Tard Inc., one of the largest convenience store retailers retailers across the globe, reported it would deploy more than 10,000 Mashgin Touchless Checkout Systems branded as “Smart Checkout,” to more than 7,000 of its Circle K and Couche-Tard stores over the next three years. The AI-powered self-checkout system developed by Mashgin will improve customer…
How to Energize Your Retail Brand
This month, NAG Executive Director John Lofstock talks with Ernie Harker, Founder and President of Ernburn. After leading Maverik’s rebranding efforts in 2001 Ernie accepted a full-time position as Maverik’s Executive Director of Marketing in 2010 and Maverik’s brand took flight. He identified a shift in Maverik’s core customer, inspired Maverik’s audacious advertising campaigns, worked…
Rutter’s Releases Spiked Tea Cooler
Rutter’s announced that it has teamed up with Lancaster Brewing Co. to create Rutter’s Spiked Tea Cooler, a limited-time offering (LTO) for the summer months. The launch marks the second product collaboration between York, Pa.-based convenience store chain and Lancaster Brewing Co. The Spiked Tea Cooler will be available exclusively at Rutter’s 46 beer locations…
EG America Launches SmartPay Promotion
EG America announced that its SmartPay Rewards program has reached $5 billion in fuel sales since its launch in 2013 and has saved members $200 Million. SmartPay Rewards members automatically save 10 cents on every gallon of fuel, every day at EG retailers throughout the country including Cumberland Farms, Certified Oil, Fastrac, Kwik Shop, Loaf…
RaceTrac Adds BBQ Flair to Menu
RaceTrac guests have two new ways to embrace the company’s Whatever Gets You Going style of convenience with an all-new BBQ chicken pizza and a BBQ pulled pork sandwich. Topped with fresh mozzarella cheese and crispy onions, the BBQ chicken pizza is a satisfying combination of sweet and savory in every bite. Featuring tender pulled…
Parker’s Launches Round-Up Charitable Giving Campaign
As part of an ongoing commitment to give back to the community and to be a force for positive change, Parker’s has teamed up with the Parker’s Community Fund to launch a new, ongoing round-up campaign and will match 25% of each customer donation. Round-up donations can be made at all 71 Parker’s and Parker’s…