Dive Brief:
- Family Express has unveiled a new store prototype that features a “contemporary flair” and aims to appeal to younger consumers, according to a recent company announcement.
- The convenience retailer’s new store model will have a “major focus on foodservice,” with food transactions taking place separate from the regular checkout counter. Like the rest of Family Express’ stores, it will feature indoor and outdoor seating along with a car and a pet wash, and will utilize mobile wallet technology.
- Alongside the launch of its new store model, Family Express has also outlined plans to open over 20 new-to-industry convenience stores within its network.
Dive Insight:
Family Express’ new store model marks a notable departure from its current format, which features a “classical, colonial look,” the company said in its announcement.
The retailer did not clarify how many of its new-to-industry locations will feature the new store prototype, if any — only that the updated look will help transition the convenience retailer into the future as the company prepares for its expansion.
“Our company has been debt-free for a number of years, even though our past capex has been uncharacteristically aggressive,” Gus Olympidis, president and CEO of Family Express, said in the announcement. “We feel empowered by our lack of leverage and our liquidity, as our channel is navigating through an ever-increasing interest rate environment.”
New store designs are one of the hottest trends in the c-store space today. Retailers such as Casey’s General Stores, RaceTrac, QuikTrip, Wawa and Spinx have all revealed plans to experiment with new formats, many of which are food-focused inside and dedicate some forecourt space for electric vehicle charging stations.
Founded in 1975, Valparaiso, Indiana-based Family Express operates 81 convenience stores throughout northwest and north central Indiana. Its new builds will all be serviced by its central distribution facility in Valparaiso, according to the announcement.
