Throughout 2023, the c-store industry has faced countless setbacks and challenges, from ongoing tobacco legislation, the lingering effects of COVID, labor shortages and much more. In 2023, retailers showed exceptional strength through innovation, strong leadership and adaptation to a changing c-store landscape. Many operators turned to foodservice, as the category continues to pick up steam…
The Pizza Power Report
Kevin McIntyre — Online Editor, CStore Decisions and Rick Hynum — Editor-in-Chief, PMQ As convenience store operators continue to elevate their foodservice programs, the pizza parlor and the gas station are beginning to share more similarities. C-store operators are expanding their foodservice menus and, when it comes to a crowd-pleasing meal, there is no better…
Vape Grapples With Shifting Landscape
Looking back over 2023, the vape category has faced many hurdles this past year as retailers adapted to regulations and the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) vape product marketing decisions. In May, the FDA issued warning letters to 30 retailers for illegally selling various types of Puff and Hyde disposable e-cigarettes. Shortly after, in June,…
AI Transforms C-Store Operations
Convenience stores have always been keeping an eye on emerging technology and digital trends, but in recent years, digital and tech innovation has advanced at a rapid pace. Daniel Burrus, global futurist and CEO of Burrus Research, has had his finger on the growth of technology for decades, and he understands how c-stores can use…
Adapting to New Cigar Trends
Along with keeping an eye on the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) decision regarding the flavored cigar ban, retailers are also finding new ways to keep up with consumers’ demands and the different cigar trends they’re seeing. Last year, the FDA announced the proposed rule to ban all flavors in cigars. As of now, the…
Enhancing Forecourt Marketing Innovations
When most consumers visit a c-store to fuel up, they pump their gas and go, especially if they’re able to pay for gas at the pump. However, to pull those consumers from the pump into the store and increase foot traffic, retailers are finding new and improved tactics to market to those consumers. Retailers are…
Focusing on the Facilities
WINNER: Onvo Onvo’s restrooms provide customers with features such as extra-private stalls and LED lighting, with shower facilities in many, allowing customers restorative restroom breaks. Proper restroom upkeep is a critical component of running a successful convenience store, and retailers looking to draw repeat customers should carefully consider their restroom cleaning schedules and overall restroom…
Variety Propels Lunch Sales
Lunch is such a popular daypart that, in some stores, it ties with or even overtakes breakfast in sales. Many chains are thus experimenting with their menus, testing limited-time offers (LTOs) and adding new items. For example, at Kwik Trip and Kwik Star locations in Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, Illinois, Michigan and South Dakota, lunch sales…
Spirited Frozen Dispensed Drinks Spike Sales
Alcoholic frozen beverages are becoming more popular with each passing year, and convenience stores are helping to pave the way for the drink with new innovations and flavors. York, Pa.-based Rutter’s, for instance, has been offering alcoholic frozen dispensed beverages — called Spiked Slushies — since 2018, according to Adam Long, category manager for Rutter’s.…
Monitoring Congressional and FDA Tobacco Developments
With most state legislatures adjourned until January, recent tobacco regulatory and legislative developments have centered around Congress and the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) Center for Tobacco Products (CTP). Congressional Bills Two separate bills have been introduced that would substantially increase the federal excise tax on all tobacco products. The “Care for Moms Act” and…