Understanding trends in the c-store industry is essential for retailers looking to grow their footprint and leave a lasting mark on the communities they serve. In today’s day and age, many of these trends center around technology, as operators look to capitalize on an increasingly tech-focused society and consumer base. Richard Crone, CEO of Crone…
Casey’s Resource Groups Create Connections for Team Members
Casey’s has been implementing resource groups to connect team members as part of its diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiative. The chain’s “Casey’s CARES” culture has been created around the values of commitment, authenticity, respect, evolving and service. The Ankeny, Iowa-based company puts service first as it cares for its guests, communities and its more…
Roam N Stop Thrives in Las Vegas
In the tricky world of Las Vegas-based business, Roam N Stop is flourishing and growing. Launched amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, the chain currently operates three sites in the Las Vegas area with two new locations set to open in Colorado under the TravelCenters of America brand. The company is also developing a mobile app and…
Considering New Tactics for C-Store Security
Theft continues to pose a significant challenge for retailers in 2023. In response, retailers are finding new ways to reduce shoplifting and to keep customers and employees safe. In a recent Coresight Research survey, customers expressed concern about how increases in theft could impact their local stores. The survey found that 48% of consumers are…
Can Menthols Survive a Tobacco-Free Shift?
Picture this: Sometime around October 2024, a couple of 40-something menthol smokers visit their regular c-stores and ask for their preferred menthol cigarette brands. “Sorry we can’t stock or sell those anymore,” the clerk says. “But we have these new nicotine-free menthols. They say they come close. No tobacco.” Do you think our menthol smokers…
NAG Convenience Launches Leadership Discovery Program
The National Advisory Group (NAG Convenience) is launching another NAG Member Benefit: the Leadership Discovery Program (LDP), which provides personal and professional development opportunities to members of the Young Executives Organization (YEO). C-store retailers are invited to a free webinar on Oct. 18 that will explain the new program and how their chains can become…
Keeping an Eye on Vape, Cigars
Concern for the tobacco category isn’t new among retailers, and as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) proposes regulations and issues marketing decisions, c-store operators are continuously assessing inventory. Cigars in particular are a question mark with c-stores as they wait on the FDA to make a decision regarding a flavor ban this fall and…
Yatco Celebrates 30 Years
As Yatco celebrates 30 years in business, the family-owned, second-generation c-store chain has aggressive plans to double its company-operated stores and grow its franchising program. The Marlborough, Mass.-based company is currently building four new-to-industry (NTI) stores, updating its exterior branding and investing in technology from mobile payment to self-checkout kiosks. “Currently, we are in a…
Improving Supply Chain Practices
A few years ago, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the supply chain proved a constant source of stress for convenience store retailers. With out-of-stocks aplenty and hardships maintaining inventory in a timely manner, c-store operators had to be creative with solutions. “Overall, the pandemic brought about significant changes in the supply chain, prompting…
Convenience Drives Contactless Payments in C-Stores
When COVID-19 arrived in March 2020, retailers rushed to implement contactless payment options to keep shoppers and employees safe. Three years later, customer demand for contactless payment continues to increase given its speed and convenience. To accommodate the increased use of contactless payments, retailers are enhancing or upgrading their systems while taking data security into…