Managing a retail store is tough work. Between operations, merchandising, marketing and facility upkeep, retail business owners have their hands full. Managing the details of retail is the difference between making it or not. All too often, retail owners become lax in their operation and put themselves at an unnecessary disadvantage with their customers. It…

Wine can be a profitable category for convenience store retailers, depending on your market area, but only if it’s done right. Just adding a red and a white wine option isn’t likely to grow sales, especially today when customers’ palates are more sophisticated and they’re eager to taste test new flavors. If you only offer…

Cannabidiol (CBD) gummies and soft chews share more in common than they differ. Both resemble edible candies containing CBD that come in a wide variety of flavors, shapes and sizes. And because gummies and soft chews mimic candy, that makes either a good entry product for new CBD consumers. Soft chews are similar to gummies…

Americans love wine, and they increasingly love buying it in convenience stores. How can convenience stores can sell even more of it? It really isn’t difficult in most cases. Wine is a great profit center and a growing category for many operators today. There is a plentiful supply of quality wine available that allows for…

New data from the National Confectioners Association (NCA) and IRI shows that, despite the pandemic, consumers remained enthusiastic about the winter holiday season and the role that chocolate and overall candy play in their traditions and celebrations. So, how exactly did candy sales fare this year? Total seasonal confectionery sales were up by 20% over…

When considering which health and beauty aid (HBA) products to sell at your c-store, keep in mind: Numbers don’t lie. Up-to-date, c-store-specific data is important in tracking ever-evolving consumer trends. So, what are the most popular, best-selling HBA products in convenience stores? According to NielsenIQ statistics for the convenience store channel for the 52-week period…

Candy’s always been a consumer favorite and an ever-popular c-store staple. But the candy industry, like many others, is rapidly evolving to meet consumers’ expectations and keep them coming back for more — or to try something new. So, what are some top candy trends from this past year to consider as we enter 2022?…

When over-the-counter medications and pain relievers sell more than eyeshadows and face creams, why should convenience store owners and operators incorporate makeup, skincare, and nail polishes into the limited space allocated for health and beauty aids (HBA)? While each business must make that determination, an overview of industry research might provide a convincing argument in…

The health and beauty aids (HBA) category in convenience stores doesn’t fit neatly into traditional marketing and promotional packages like other c-store staples, despite heavy manufacturer advertising in print, on television and through social medial channels. It’s not like a loyalty program offering “buy 10 lip balms, get one free” will drive foot traffic. Sure,…

Bipartisan House lawmakers recently introduced a bill to require the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to develop regulations for food and beverages containing hemp-derived CBD and allow for their interstate commerce. The CBD Product Safety and Standardization Act would require the FDA to develop rules and hold a public comment period on the maximum amount…