This is a challenging time for all of us as our nation continues to grapple with the current events. I remain amazed at the collective selfless response of those serving on the front lines — from healthcare workers and first responders, to convenience store team members working around the clock to serve customers and keep…
How to Prepare for When the Pandemic Ends
CStore Decisions recently caught up with John Matthews, founder and president of Gray Cat Enterprises Inc., to learn more about what convenience store retailers can do today to position themselves for the best possible outlook when the pandemic is over. The biggest takeaway, Matthews said, is that retailers need to “embrace the new world.” In…
Stewart’s Provides Relief to Dairy Producers and Customers
The dairy industry has been struggling for many years, and the COVID-19 pandemic has added additional pressure, forcing many producers to dump milk. But New York-based Stewart’s Shops’ dairy producers aren’t dumping milk; in fact, they’re receiving increased premiums and decreased hauling costs from Stewart’s that goes beyond what they receive above the Federal Market…
Rutter’s Donates Over $50,000 in Food and Beverages to Central Pennsylvania Food Bank
Since the beginning of March, York, Pa.-based Rutter’s has donated over $50,000 worth of food and beverages to the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank in the company’s continuous effort to help support its communities. With the donation from Rutter’s, the food bank is able to help those in need during the COVID-19 pandemic. The items donated…
Love’s Extends Pay Increase, Other Benefits Amid COVID-19
Love’s Travel Stops & Country Stores is extending its $2 per hour pay increase through June 2. In addition, sick pay related to COVID-19 is extended through July 31, and free employee meals for all hourly store employees are extended through May. The company has also announced a new $200 bonus will be given to…
National Fuel Price Average Increases by Six Cents
The national fuel price average is six cents more expensive on the week at $1.84, according to AAA, but still cheaper on the month and year — three cents and $1.02 less, respectively. Forty states still have averages of $2 or less per gallon. “Pump prices are fluctuating throughout the country as demand increases and…
Customers Bulk Up on Candy
Americans enjoy chocolate and non-chocolate candy two to three times per week, averaging just 40 calories per day, according to the National Confectioners Association’s report “Sweet Insights: State of Treating 2020.” Confectionery remains a strong and powerful category across all retail channels, with sales above $37 billion annually. And when the consumer sweet tooth calls,…
FDA Requests Delay on Cigarette Pack Warning Labels
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) asked a Texas federal judge to delay the agency’s new requirement for graphic warning labels on cigarette packs due to the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Law 360. The FDA is asking the court to postpone the effective date by 120 days from June 18, 2021, to Oct. 16, 2021. “Defendants…
Parker’s Donates More Than 7,000 KN95 Masks to Healthcare Providers
Savannah, Ga.-based Parker’s, which operate 66 stores throughout coastal Georgia and South Carolina, recently donated more than 7,000 KN95 masks to frontline healthcare providers at hospitals and healthcare facilities throughout coastal Georgia and South Carolina. “We’re deeply grateful to all the doctors, nurses, clinicians and staff who are providing exceptional healthcare to area residents throughout the…
Dunkin’ Eliminates Foam Cups From All Locations
Dunkin’ announced that 100% of its restaurants globally have transitioned from polystyrene (EPS) foam cups to paper cups, meeting the timetable established by the brand two years ago. In Dunkin’ U.S. restaurants, the foam cups have been replaced by double-walled paper cups. Dunkin’ is also on track to fully transition to new, recyclable hot coffee…