The 2024 NAG Conference opened on day two in Tampa Bay, Fla., with discussions on artificial intelligence (AI) and foodservice marketing. Erin Del Conte, editor-in-chief of CStore Decisions and conference moderator; Allison Dean, executive director of the National Advisory Group (NAG); and Vernon Young, NAG board chairman, celebrated the 40th anniversary of the conference on…
Variety is Vital for Dispensed
Cold and frozen dispensed beverages are oftentimes viewed synonymously with c-stores, and in 2024, retailers are looking to drive sales with a focus on frozen and flavor variety. “We have increased (in sales) over the previous year; shockingly, our frozen is trending really well for this time of the year,” said Jessica Russell, food service…
The 2024 Foodservice Report
Year over year, convenience stores up their competitiveness in the retail market with refreshed store designs, new technology and, noticeably, expanded foodservice programs. C-stores have branched out from the typical roller grill fare of years past. Now, customers can find different takes on the chicken sandwich, a plethora of pizza flavors, Hispanic options and even…
Observing the Customer When it Comes to EV
The noise surrounding electric vehicles (EV) is loud, and c-store retailers are asking themselves what, if anything, they need to do about the technology. While many large operators have already begun EV charger implementation, a number of smaller chains are wondering whether or not installing chargers is in the cards for them at this time.…
Sweet and Spicy Snack Sampling
CStore Decisions Senior Editor Emmy Boes samples a few different snacks this month, including her namesake: Emmy’s Organics Thin & Crispy Brownie Snaps in three flavors. She also tasted Nopalia Chili Pepper Crunchy Sticks and Dave’s Killer Bread Cocoa Brownie Blitz.
Cigarette Sales Ring in at $53 Billion
For quite some time now, c-store retailers have been watching a downward trend in cigarette sales due in part to inflation, as well as customers shifting to other tobacco segments, including vape and smokeless, and in some cases tobacco-free or nicotine-free options. Cigarette unit sales dropped by 6% during 2023, and the price per unit…
Soft, Chewy and Shareable: A Candy Roundup
Senior Editor of CStore Decisions Emmy Boes taste tests three different candy items: SKITTLES Gummy Sour, HI-SOFT Salted Caramel Chews and SweeTARTS Ropes in Cherry Punch.
Serving up Success With Servais
Convenience stores that have implemented foodservice programs are well aware of the nuances that derive from cooking in a smaller footprint compared to quick-service and full-service restaurants. In taking on the endeavor, they have learned how to maximize space, which equipment is best for their kitchens and how to achieve success. For those c-store retailers…
Casey’s Is Official C-Store of RAGBRAI
Casey’s announced its continued partnership with the world’s longest multiday bicycle touring event RAGBRAI (Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa). “We are incredibly excited to announce our continued sponsorship of RAGBRAI. Casey’s is in the heart of the communities we serve, including hundreds of towns across Iowa,” said Katie Petru, director of communications, Casey’s.…
2024 Spells Growth for Love’s
Love’s Travel Stops decided to make plans for its 60th year, including adding 20-25 new locations, updating 35-40 aging stores and completely rebuilding four stores to make it easier for customers to fuel up and get the products and amenities they need on their journey. Additionally, the company is preparing for added food and restaurant…