“With gas prices down, many major gasoline retailers are finding new and improved ways to make the traditional refueling experience more efficient and enjoyable for consumers.”[i] In an industry with heavy competition, it is important to stay informed about what other store owners are doing differently. Consider making some of these changes to help your c-store thrive in the New Year.

“Convenience stores don't just serve communities — they invest in them. With this large investment, they have a stake in the community's success and seek to enhance it”[i]. As a c-store owner, there is constant pressure to have a business that is up-to-date. This can cost you a lot of time and money. Luckily, there are easy and cost-effective ways that you can improve your store without going over your budget. The best way to do this is through different energy saving and efficiency strategies....

Sixty-four percent of c-store owners have labeled new store concepts as a strategic priority for 2017[i]. With innovation around every corner owners are striving to balance an improved shopping experience with expanded offerings. Some of these offerings could include innovative ideas like remote-controlled POS systems, digital fuel sign software, or interactive fuel pumps. With current technology trends like these, consider upgrading to enhance your customer’s experience in 2017.

Along with the cold weather comes the need for new seasonal products. Whether it’s a holiday snack trend or a beverage to keep them warm, customers are wanting new and different products to satisfy their winter cravings.

Preparation is the biggest factor when transferring your store to a family member. After spending countless hours to improve your business and maximize your income, the last thing you want is a lengthy and stressful transfer once you are ready to pass on your store. With your future in mind, the following information will help you prepare to transfer your thriving store when the time is right.

In 2014, 31.8 million US consumers had their credit cards used in fraudulent transactions – three times more than in 2013. Now more than ever convenience and small grocery store owners are at risk for fraudulent activity at their business. This makes fraud protection important for store owners to practice. Although it can seem confusing, preventing fraud is easier than you may think. Simple changes like having a card processor with up-to-date encryption, educating your employees on security,...

In 2013, fresh produce sales in the United States reached an estimated $43 billion1. As consumers continue to seek out healthier meal options, this number continues to rise. Unfortunately, while convenience stores make up 33.9% of all retail locations in the U.S., they account for less than 1% of the fresh produce sales1. However, today’s consumers are interested in adding more trips to small convenient stores to their regular shopping, which presents a major growth opportunity for c-stores. As...

Store owners in the convenience store industry obviously rely on convenience to succeed. However, some fail to realize that in today’s retail landscape, convenience is a priority of every business. Most retailers are making changes to the standard retail store to improve the customer experience. Today, the fight to keep a retail business thriving is tougher than ever, as technology and consumer demands drive increased expectations in the retail environment.

As a convenience or grocery store owner, you likely rely on a number of other companies and vendors to keep your business running. With an accountant, product distributor, insurance provider, and credit card processor at minimum you already have several different third parties playing a role in your business’ success. While it is easier to simply choose a provider and continue working with them for as long as possible, you should be careful that you are not leaving any part of your business in...

Convenience stores often experience a very high turnover rate and are usually severely understaffed. Store owners have a hard time finding and keeping reliable and dedicated employees, especially in small single-location businesses. Of course, there are common human resources struggles in the hiring process and the fact that many people simply avoid working in retail settings because of the nature of the business. However, what is even more difficult for store owners is losing the quality help...