Out of stock can sometimes mean out of business, according to Jim Callahan of Convenience Store Decisions. Many owners have not been paying attention to the effects that out-of-stock products can have on a c-store. It is important to understand how this is happening and how it can cause you to lose major profits if you do not take simple steps to fix the problem now.

One of the most important aspects of owning a c-store is deciding product pricing to make the most profit. Learning to develop your pricing strategies, knowing what to avoid, and understanding the importance of knowing your competition’s prices helps you be informed and make the best pricing decisions. The following information will give you a foundation to better understand your customers, your c-store, and the art of product pricing.

A large part of being successful within the convenience industry is being able to provide great customer service. One way many owners fall short is by not understanding how much communication with your customers can affect this service. It is important to learn the common errors that occur and how you can easily improve communication skills for you and your store.

Nearly two-thirds of convenience stores are independently owned and operated. The single-store or family owned business has recently re-emerged as a major trend in convenience. Some large stores are even remodeling their locations to achieve the small business and more local aesthetic. With new and innovative trends still giving the larger companies and chains a competitive advantage, Mom and Pop c-stores are left wondering whether customers will be lured in by their large rivals or is the...

In the food and beverage retail industry, women make up more than half of the workforce but are only 27% of its management. The women who do hold these roles within the c-store industry are making a difference. Due to their numerous achievements, these women are pushing past challenges and taking their companies and stores to new levels of success.

In the ‘80s, ‘90s and early 2000s, the FBI took great strides in educating and protecting c-store chains from crime. In recent years, many new 'Mom and Pop' single owner stores have emerged into the c-store industry. Without the proper knowledge and resources, these stores have become vulnerable to crime, especially those choosing to operate 24 hours a day.

Know Your Location’s Risks

Running a c-store is becoming increasingly complex. Combine together new trends with changing technology and new competitors, and you'll find that running a c-store can seem overwhelming. Here are the top five most confusing c-store concepts explained so you can understand what is going on with the convenience industry today.

C-store’s are evolving quickly as a younger generation of owners are coming in and changing the way we view convenience. The “modern convenience concept” includes an array of new techniques that appeal to both older and younger customers. Below are some of typical "modern" c-store components to help you understand what is different about these new and innovative c-stores.

7-Eleven