This will be my final editor’s memo, ending my 27 years in trade publishing, the last 18 of which were spent here at CStore Decisions. It’s not joy that makes us grateful; it’s gratitude that makes joy possible. But I can’t acknowledge everyone to whom I owe a debt of gratitude without writing a tome…
Is a Business Cash Advance Right For Me?
An independent business may need cash for a variety of things. Most businesses need to stock and reorder inventory consistently. Payroll management of wages and salaries paid to employees must be made on time and rent paid to a landlord for use of a space can’t be late. But there are many other drains on…
Should I Be Accepting EBT?
The influx of immigrants has had a significant impact on the economy, with many relying on the government’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) to help them meet their basic needs. This program is designed to provide food to low-income individuals and families, and with the help of EBT, these individuals…
Do I need a Panic Alarm in an Independent Retail Store?
Having a panic alarm system in an independent retail store is of paramount importance. It is a way to ensure that your customers, employees, and yourself are safe in the event of an emergency. A panic alarm is a device that, when activated, silently sends a signal to the police or other emergency services alerting…
Building Relationships for Success
The young employees of today are the future business leaders of tomorrow. As leaders, we have an obligation to help our future by training and mentoring tomorrow’s leaders today. This is the goal of the Young Executives Organization (YEO). YEO’s mission is to cultivate young talent in the convenience store and petroleum industry through implementation…
How to Increase Revenue by Leveraging Tobacco Scan Data
Small business owners that sell tobacco would do well to participate in a Tobacco Scan Data program. This applies to any establishment that sells tobacco products, whether you own a high-end tobacco shop or operate a grocery, mini-mart, bodega or other store that offers cigarettes, vapes and other products. There are so many people that…
How to Build a Home-Based Convenience Business
Starting a home-based convenience business can be both a rewarding and challenging experience. It may seem easy, but it requires the same amount of preparation and planning as any other business. Still, it offers many more benefits, like skipping going into the office and being in control of their own hours, schedule, and operations. If…
Warrenton Oil Acquires Thoele Oil Convenience Stores
Warrenton Oil Co., a family-owned and operated company founded in 1972 and located in Truesdale, Mo., has acquired Thoele Oil, a family-owned and operated Missouri-based company located in St. Charles, Mo. Warrenton Oil and its FastLane Convenience Stores will take over 10 convenience stores from Thoele Oil. The addition of the 10 convenience stores expands…
Growing Business Through Loyalty
While these difficult economic times continue to peck away at customers’ disposable income, higher fuel prices are eroding discretionary spending. Gasoline prices nationally have increased steadily since the Biden Administration came into office, rising nearly $1.40 to an average of $3.41 for a gallon of regular unleaded, according to the AAA Gas Prices index at…
Credit Card Processing 101: How to Improve Profitability
Starting a business is an exciting endeavor that can provide an opportunity for individuals to be their own boss and pursue their passions. However, before starting a business, merchants must carefully research and prepare a business plan that includes credit card processing, researching options, comparing fees and rates, understanding the terms of service, and other…