As technology continues to change the way we do business, retailers must weigh the benefits of being ahead of the curve versus the risks, and the disadvantages of falling behind. By Erin Rigik, Associate Editor. In a scene from the futuristic movie “Minority Report,” Tom Cruise’s character walks through a shopping mall while 3-D screens…
The Importance of Fully-Stocked Shelves
A survey shows lack of inventory, difficulty finding desired items and long checkout lines are top threats to retaining loyal customers. Nearly 70% of U.S. adults would avoid shopping at a retail store if they encountered empty shelves, according to a nationwide survey commissioned by Galleria Retail Technology Solutions, a provider of retail and category…
Circle K Raises $1 Million For UCP
“For more than three decades, our partnership with UCP has been one of the most important outlets for Circle K to give back to the people we serve,” says Circle K spokesperson. Circle K recently donated $332,000 to United Cerebral Palsy (UCP). The donation was raised during Circle K’s FishStix event, an annual golf and…
Hit-n-Run Food Stores Prepares for the Future
Brenton Investment Corp. is set to build a new prototype design as it sets its sights on growth through new builds. By Erin Rigik, Associate Editor. With 11 years under its belt and 13 successful convenience stores throughout southern Louisiana, Brenton Investment Corp. is ready to grow its fleet of Hit-n-Run Food Stores beginning with…
Taking Social Media to the Next Level
C-stores are adding Facebook pages, but to profit from social media, retailers need to also engage fans with text and email marketing campaigns. By Erin Rigik, Associate Editor. Anyone still questioning the power of social media need only look to Japan. The country, which between earthquakes, tsunamis and radiation fears has seen tourism drop, is…
Preparing for Future Payment Systems
First it was PCI, now retailers have to prepare for the widespread launch of Near Field Communications, which is expected to become a widely used system for making payments by smartphone in the U.S. By Howard Riell, Associate Editor. The convenience store industry is increasingly turnings its gaze outdoors to the forecourt, not only for…
Susser Reports Operating Results
“We delivered one of our strongest quarters ever in same-store merchandise sales growth during the latest quarter, and despite higher gasoline prices versus a year ago, we achieved strong growth in gallons sold,” says Susser CEO. Susser Holdings Corp. has reported strong financial and operating results for the third quarter ended Oct. 2, 2011, driven…
Perfecting Pizza
A top-notch pie and artistic appeal help differentiate the offering for this important foodservice segment. By Howard Riell, Associate Editor. Pizza, a perennial favorite of American culture, is grabbing headlines as some restaurateurs and retailers devise gourmet versions with a variety of innovative toppings and crusts. And while that’s all well and good, c-store shoppers…
Understand the Rules Customer Service
One unhappy shopping experience can influence the behavior of 16 customers. Can you afford to lose that business? By Jim Callahan. Great customer service is still and will always be the hallmark of any successful retail business. As convenience store operators we have high standards to compete with. For example, it is standard practice in…
Thorntons Earns Top Chain Honors
Kentucky operator presented the industry’s most prestigious retail award at a gala in Chicago. By Erin Rigik, Associate Editor. Convenience Store Decisions honored Louisville, Ky.-based Thorntons Inc. as its 22nd annual Convenience Store Chain of the Year at an exclusive dinner at Café Spiaggia in Chicago last month during the NACS Show. More than 200…