On day two of the 2024 NAG Conference in Tampa Bay, Fla., attendees from across the country sat in on an educational session titled “Elections and the Industry: How will the results impact your business?” Panelists at the session included Ashley Walker, partner, Mercury Public Affairs; Matt Mowers, president, Valcour; and Mark Braden, senior director…
NAG Talks AI and Foodservice Marketing
The 2024 NAG Conference opened on day two in Tampa Bay, Fla., with discussions on artificial intelligence (AI) and foodservice marketing. Erin Del Conte, editor-in-chief of CStore Decisions and conference moderator; Allison Dean, executive director of the National Advisory Group (NAG); and Vernon Young, NAG board chairman, celebrated the 40th anniversary of the conference on…
Customers Seek Novelty from Non-Chocolate Segment
Non-chocolate candy, gum and mints are expected to continue to see strong sales in 2024, powered by old favorites, novelty candy and seasonal items. Non-chocolate candy saw dollar sales of $3.34 billion, up 13.4%, for the 52 weeks ending Dec. 31, 2023, per Circana. Unit volume dipped 3.1% to 1.41 billion. Novelty candy stood out…
Variety is Vital for Dispensed
Cold and frozen dispensed beverages are oftentimes viewed synonymously with c-stores, and in 2024, retailers are looking to drive sales with a focus on frozen and flavor variety. “We have increased (in sales) over the previous year; shockingly, our frozen is trending really well for this time of the year,” said Jessica Russell, food service…
Urban Value Corner Store Introduces New Retail Format for Apartments
Urban Value Corner Store (UVCS) has selected JUXTA to pioneer its autonomous micro-market strategy within luxury apartment communities. The two companies are partnering to join JUXTA’s newest initiative, project name ‘Nest’ — an autonomous micro market kit for indoor environments — with Urban Value’s strong brand presence in upscale living environments, setting a new standard…
2024 NAG Conference Kicks Off in Tampa
The 2024 National Advisory Group (NAG) Conference kicked off Sunday afternoon in Tampa, Fla., at the Tampa Marriott Water Street Hotel. Attendees were welcomed with a 40 Under 40 celebration for new and returning Young Executives Organization (YEO) members — the NAG membership group for leaders under 40. At the recognition event, this year’s class…
7-Eleven Announces Launch of New 2024 Menu Items
7-Eleven has introduced its new menu items for 2024, available now at select 7-Eleven, Speedway and Stripes stores across the U.S. New additions feature both foodservice and beverage options for customers. The new lineup includes: Cheesy Three Meat Breakfast Burrito: Blend of diced bacon, diced ham and breakfast sausage crumbles with nacho cheese sauce, monterey…
The 2024 Foodservice Report
Year over year, convenience stores up their competitiveness in the retail market with refreshed store designs, new technology and, noticeably, expanded foodservice programs. C-stores have branched out from the typical roller grill fare of years past. Now, customers can find different takes on the chicken sandwich, a plethora of pizza flavors, Hispanic options and even…
Marathon Grant Funds New Ground Monitor for Oregon Fire Department
Marathon Pipe Line (MPL) recently provided a $7,000 grant to Ontario Fire & Rescue (OFR) in Oregon to purchase a new ground monitor. A week later, a third-party truck transporting liquefied natural gas (LNG) caught fire during the fuel loading process at a nearby facility not connected to Marathon Petroleum. OFR crews responded and worked…
D&H United Completes Acquisition of Precision Tank Service
D&H United, a portfolio company of Wind Point Partners, has announced its successful acquisition of Precision Tank Service (PTS). Founded in 1989 and headquartered in Cornelius, N.C., PTS offers complete UST testing services including monthly, annual and periodic testing required for tanks and associated piping, sensors and equipment. PTS is a regional leader in regulatory…