How c-stores are built to ride out (most) inflation

While Goldman Sachs’ analysts are bullish on the outlook for c-stores in 2023, they are concerned that higher interest rates and economic pressures will continue to impact fuel and in-store spending. 

By Christine Blank • July 17, 2023

Wisconsin c-store operator offers slew of product freebies under new loyalty program

Weiler’s Convenience Stores features more than a dozen different offers where shoppers can get free coffee, pizza and other products after buying five or 10 of the same item.

By Jessica Loder • July 14, 2023

Inflation could impact summer GM sales at c-stores

If consumer spending stays low through the next few months, unique and seasonal product mixes and promotions will be key to driving the category, experts say.

By Christine Blank • July 11, 2023

C-stores should brace for inflation pressure through 2023

Trips have trended down along with basket sizes, but experts say c-stores should continue to focus on bundling items and promoting core categories like alcohol and snacks.

By Christine Blank • July 5, 2023

Monster Beverage set to buy Bang Energy for up to $362M

A previously scheduled auction for the bankrupt energy drink maker has been canceled, a court document showed. The purchase still needs regulatory approval.

By Christopher Doering • June 29, 2023

Kum & Go boosts points, flexibility with new loyalty program and app

The refreshed program doubles points earned and offers more ways to use them — a strategy that promises a “huge upside,” according to one loyalty expert.

By Jessica Loder • June 29, 2023

Independent c-stores seeing packaged beverage unit sales drop

While sales are holding steady for c-stores, inflation may start driving shoppers to other sectors for their beverages, experts say.

By Jessica Loder • June 26, 2023

Coca-Cola’s BodyArmor enters rapid hydration with first major product launch in 2 years

The launch of BodyArmor Flash I.V. comes as the Atlanta-based beverage giant has struggled to integrate the energy drink after taking full control of it for $5.6 billion in 2021. 

By Christopher Doering • June 21, 2023

Chips, bottled water spark Casey’s ‘phenomenal’ private label performance

The retailer’s proprietary brands saw a 31% year-over-year sales increase last quarter, CEO Darren Rebelez said during the company’s Q4 earnings call.

By Brett Dworski • June 14, 2023

What’s behind the boom in alcohol delivery?

A new study by DoorDash notes that 54% of consumers said online delivery is their preferred way to purchase alcohol, while 69% said they order it online at least monthly.

By Brett Dworski • May 31, 2023

Inflation is moderating but consumers remain very price sensitive, Circana says

While consumer confidence has grown, almost 80% polled by the firm say they plan to buy more value brands in the next six months.

By Jessica Loder • May 30, 2023

Protein cheese puffs? Sweets & Snacks Expo highlights power-packed snacks

While jerky and nutrition bars were all over the show floor, it was cheesy, salty and crunchy options that grabbed the spotlight.

By Brett Dworski • May 30, 2023

Inflation boosting revenue for small retailers amid traffic declines, study shows

Weekly in-store revenue in Q1 increased 2.6% year over year, while the average weekly foot traffic dropped by the same percentage, according to Skupos.

By Jessica Loder • May 25, 2023

Why 2 major c-stores are getting pressured by investors

The conglomerate structure that Parkland and Seven & i have built can be a prime target for firms to try and break up, according to one expert.

By Jessica Loder • May 23, 2023

Circle K scales private label wine brands chainwide

The rollout includes its value-priced Sunshine Bliss label, now available at 3,000 stores, and a premium line that’s available at 900 locations.

By Jessica Loder • May 19, 2023

Yesway hitting the gas on hemp and CBD products

The retailer is bringing a new hemp-infused beverage to more than 325 stores in its network, continuing its ongoing interest in the category.

By Brett Dworski • May 10, 2023

Ice cream sales are driving traffic, but inflation could hamper growth

With summer on the horizon, customers are buying less ice cream at c-stores due to tightening budgets. But the category still has the ability to grow baskets. 

By Christine Blank • May 3, 2023

Yatco leans into healthier, locally sourced snacking

The 18-store retailer has partnered with wholesale outlet Mable to bring plant-based, gluten-free products to its shelves.

By Brett Dworski • April 28, 2023

Loop Neighborhood Market launches EV charging program

The retailer will deploy the Boost Chargers from FreeWire Technologies at its existing stores, beginning with its recently updated location in Fremont, California.

By Brett Dworski • April 17, 2023

C-stores see all-day boost in snacking, Circana data shows

Growing interest in healthier eating is offering convenience retailers avenues for growth.

By Jessica Loder • April 14, 2023

C-store retailers reveal costs and surprises of EV charging

Convenience and fuel operators also discussed the type of maintenance these stations require, lessons learned, challenges tackled and more.

By Brett Dworski • April 12, 2023

Couche-Tard’s Florida dispensary deal awaits regulatory approval

While the U.S. government reviews marijuana’s status as a schedule 1 drug, regulations have the Rise Express plans under a microscope. 

By Jessica Loder • April 11, 2023

Nonalcoholic drinks are booming. Here’s how c-stores can capitalize.

While sales don’t yet warrant a large amount of shelf space, retailers should prepare to cater to the growing consumer base seeking alcohol-free refreshments.

By Christine Blank • April 10, 2023

Walmart to install EV chargers at thousands of stores by 2030

The big-box retailer already has around 1,300 chargers at 280 of its sites but plans to further leverage its vast store network. 

By Jessica Loder • April 7, 2023

PepsiCo broadens reach of Doritos brand with jerky launch

The debut accelerates the company’s plan to bring its chips into other categories, including pretzels and crackers, as a way to expand its snacking dominance and the market recognition of its items.

By Christopher Doering • April 7, 2023