C-store chains across the globe have begun deploying versions of frictionless checkout solutions, from scan-and-pay apps to Just Walk Out technology, but the concept is still underutilized in convenience stores today. While many c-store retailers report having their eye on frictionless checkout trends and technology, some aren’t sure where to start or why they should…
Candy — Still Reliable Mainstay
Candy has managed to retain the loyalty of c-store customers as 2023 continues forward despite inflation dogging consumers’ steps. Although unit sales might be subsiding marginally, sales dollars are elevated across all channels, noted Dan Sadler, principal, client insights at Circana, a market research firm. “Before, probably eight to 12 months ago, we really saw…
Developing a Store of the Future
Change is inevitable. We change where we live, we change relationships, and we change our jobs. Change has been with us throughout time, but the worldwide pandemic seemed to send change into hyperdrive. Every timeline became compressed and long-term trends seemingly happened overnight. It was, and still is, shifting paradigms at an accelerated pace. So…
Neon CEO Talks Forward Progress
Neon Marketplace, which operates seven locations in New England, recently announced new leadership. Adi Dhandhania has taken the helm as CEO of the Cranston, R.I.-based convenience store chain. He brings a background in mergers and acquisitions (M&A) and leadership to the role. He was previously the chief operating officer for North America at Bally’s Interactive,…
Energy North Poised for Expansion
Energy North (EN) has had its sights set on growth since Jeff Black officially took the helm as CEO in 2022. Black, the second generation of the family business, has been busy developing the company culture, growing the leadership team and expanding the company. This spring EN debuted a new flagship Haffner’s site that features…
How To Achieve Balance as a Leader
It can be hard to find balance as a c-store executive leader but focusing on a few key areas can help improve your well-being and energy, giving you more stamina and inspiration on and off the job. One of the greatest benefits I find in being a sole proprietor is that I can wield tremendous…
Climbing Toward the Summit
Ten years ago this month I climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro, and I brought along a copy of CStore Decisions magazine for some light reading at the summit. My cousin and I made the trip together up Africa’s tallest mountain, one of the Seven Summits (which is comprised of the highest mountain on each continent). We opted…
Assortment Drives Beverage Sales
Now that summer has arrived, consumers are gravitating toward the cold vault at their local c-store, and they’re reaching for the latest trends as they look to experiment with new flavors and varieties. Retailers are responding by increasing their beverage selection. Energy drinks and water are among the segments retailers have seen flying out of…
How to Achieve Consistent Menu Execution
C-stores looking to drive repeat business with their foodservice program should focus on consistent menu execution as their top priority. Consistency outweighs quality when it comes to foodservice. As much as the consumer wants the best quality at the best price, if they can’t get it that way every time, they are more inclined to…
Some 75% of Shoppers Fear Price Hikes Due to Rising Theft
Incidents of retail theft are increasingly making headlines, along with videos of thieves brazenly taking complete shelves of goods. Even more alarming, store associates who have attempted to detain suspected shoplifters have been harmed in the process. Many retailers in large cities have resorted to putting often-pilfered items in plexiglass cases, which creates significant friction…