If you’re considering adding a beer cave to an existing convenience store, one of the key considerations is how big the beer cave should be. Unfortunately, there’s no one-sized fits all answer, as each location has specific space restrictions and beer growth opportunities. Ultimately, the size of your beer cave will depend on a number…

First came hard lemonades. Then beverage manufacturers added alcohol to seltzers, and now the fermented malt beverages (FMBs), or hard seltzers, segment of the alcohol category is bubbling over, both in sales and flavor selection. The National Association of Convenience Stores (NACS) State of the Industry Report of 2020 revealed the FMB subcategory grew 70%…

According to market research firm Brightfield Group, millennials and Gen Xers account for over two-thirds (71%) of CBD users, though millennials take more doses per day than Gen Xers. Brightfield Group also found that both generations are more informed about the CBD dose they take — especially when compared to Baby Boomers. Knowledge and preference…

Roller grill are a relatively low-maintenance foodservice offer, but they still require regular cleaning and general upkeep. Especially in the age of COVID-19, c-stores must ensure cleanliness is a top priority. A well-maintained roller grill communicates freshness and care to the customer. Not to mention, it keeps the equipment in good shape, ensuring you will…

The 2018 Farm Bill did a lot more for convenience stores than just fund the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) as usual. It opened the door for retailers to capitalize on the burgeoning cannabidiol (CBD) market. Now, CBDs represent one of the fastest-growing categories, and more and more businesses are stepping into the marketplace. Cannabidiol…

Convenience store operators can increase their digital gift card business — and stay relevant to the way consumers are purchasing gift products — with merchant branded digital gifts and cards that offer enhanced features. Over the past 15 years, c-stores have utilized gift cards as a way to increase gasoline sales. Over the past five,…

When it comes to beer purchase patterns, one size does not fit all. Convenience store customers may grab a six pack or case to go, but they’re just as likely to reach for a single serving — typically available in 16, 24 or 40 ounces. In fact, there are many reasons why category managers should…

When considering a beer cave, one of the chief considerations is space, but how much space is needed depends on a lot of factors. One design expert shared with CStore Decisions that for a 4,500-square-foot convenience store, retailers would be looking at a standard eight-foot by 16-foot beer cave as the starting point, but other…

Cryptocurrency has been making headlines this year due to volatile swings in stock prices, moves and comments by big-name investors, particularly Elon Musk, and news in July that the Federal Reserve is “exploring the implications of fast-evolving technology for digital payments” and plans to issue a report later this year. Visa reported that more than…

Candy is an essential convenience category and all-around customer favorite. In fact, a massive 80% of consumers reported purchasing non-chocolate candy since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic began, according to the National Confectioners Association (NCA). And the the non-chocolate candy category is expected to reach $12.2 billion in sales by 2024. Here are some…