The holiday season is the busiest stretch of the year for most small businesses. Lines are longer, seasonal staff are still learning the ropes, and everyone behind the counter is focused on keeping things moving. Unfortunately, fraudsters know this too. The same rush that drives your best sales weeks also creates the perfect cover for in-store payment fraud.
Walk behind the counter of almost any independent c-store, bodega, or small grocer and you will likely find the same setup: a dial-up EBT box wedged next to a separate credit card terminal, both fighting for the same six inches of counter space. It works, technically. But “it works” is a low bar when that same setup is quietly costing you time, accuracy, and money every single day.
Running a bodega, a corner grocery, a liquor store, or a smoke shop means wearing a dozen hats at once. You’re the cashier, the inventory manager, and the compliance officer, all before lunch. Most point-of-sale systems weren’t built with that reality in mind. They’re either too basic to help you grow or too expensive and complex for a small storefront to justify.
Farmers markets do not come with a fixed checkout counter, a wired terminal, or a reliable outlet nearby. Vendors set up under a tent, break down at the end of the day, and do it all again at the next market across town. That kind of setup calls for payment equipment built for mobility, not a system borrowed from a storefront. It also means thinking through how to accept SNAP benefits, since a growing number of farmers market shoppers pay with an EBT card alongside cash and cards.
Salons, spas, and medical or wellness practices run on appointments, not just walk-in sales. Checkout must keep up with that rhythm, whether it happens at a stylist’s chair, an esthetician’s treatment room, or a front desk juggling a full book of patients. A basic card reader can process a payment, but it cannot manage bookings, track retail inventory, or give owners a real-time view of how the business is performing.
For multi-location restaurant operators, accepting EBT can open the door to significant new revenue and customer access—when implemented with the right safeguards in place. One Wendy’s franchise group in California, Cotti Foods, learned this firsthand after early fraud incidents with a previous provider revealed the risks of inadequate safeguards. After transitioning to goEBT, the organization saw immediate improvements in fraud protection, operational efficiency, and overall confidence. Their experience offers a valuable lesson for franchise groups looking to scale EBT acceptance the right way.
Most merchants set up EBT processing, check the box, and move on. Getting authorized, selecting a terminal, and training staff is already a lot of work. Once it is done, most store owners never go back to look at what they are paying in EBT processing fees month to month. That is where processors quietly profit. EBT processing fees are often buried inside a broader statement, making them easy to overlook, even when the charges are higher than they should be. With SNAP participation at record levels and more transactions running through EBT than ever, the cost of overpaying adds up faster than most merchants realize.
Butcher shop EBT acceptance is one of the most overlooked revenue opportunities in specialty retail. Tens of millions of Americans rely on SNAP benefits and are actively looking for quality local meat, yet most independent butcher shops and meat markets still do not accept EBT. The barrier is rarely eligibility; most shops already carry the inventory needed to qualify for SNAP authorization. What has held many back is the lack of a payment system built for how a butcher counter operates. CHEXIT POS by CDE changes that. It is an all-in-one platform purpose-built to handle butcher shop EBT, scale-integrated pricing, dual pricing, and split-tender checkout at the counter. This guide covers everything you need to get authorized and get the most out of every transaction.
Millions of Medicare Advantage members carry supplemental spend card which includes Health Benefits that can only be spent at stores participating in the S3 network. These are Medicare Advantage members with pre-funded monthly or quarterly allowances for eligible food and OTC health products, and they actively use the Healthy Benefits+ app to find participating stores before they shop. If your store is not in the network, you are invisible to that customer base entirely. Learning how to accept Health Benefit is one of the most straightforward ways to open your store to a large, recurring customer segment that is already looking for places to spend.
If your store is not yet authorized to accept SNAP EBT, you are missing a payment type that nearly 1 in 8 Americans relies on for food purchases. The good news is that SNAP retailer authorization is a free, online process administered directly by the USDA Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), and most stores that sell food can qualify. This guide walks store owners and operators through every step, from eligibility requirements to what happens after authorization is granted.
Alliance increases the number of retail locations accepting S3 Health Benefits payments, making it easier for members to find where they can use benefits for eligible food and OTC purchases MARIETTA, Ga., Apr. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — CDE Solutions, a leading provider of end-to-end payment solutions, today announced a strategic
Retailers who accept both EBT and credit or debit cards are operating across two distinct payment systems simultaneously. Each has its own fee structure, compliance requirements, and risk exposure. Understanding how both work at the processing level helps retailers manage costs, avoid violations, and build a checkout experience that works for every customer.
Convenience store trends in 2026 are redefining what it means to compete in a rapidly evolving retail landscape. No longer limited to fuel and snacks, today’s C-stores are becoming technology-driven, experience-focused destinations. From all-in-one POS systems to expanded payment options like EBT and OTC Benefits, operators are embracing new strategies to increase revenue, streamline operations, and meet rising customer expectations.
For years, many small businesses relied on standalone credit card terminals to accept payments. These devices perform one primary function: processing transactions. While that approach works for basic payment acceptance, modern businesses increasingly need more tools to manage inventory, track sales, and understand customer behavior.
As EBT chip cards roll out nationwide, merchants are on the front line of preventing fraud and avoiding costly chargebacks or benefit-theft disputes. The USDA confirms that EBT fraud—especially card skimming—is rising, and chip cards are a critical modernization step because they are far harder to copy or clone than
Payment processing fees may seem like a small cost per transaction, but over time they can significantly impact a small business’s profit margins. In 2026, as card usage continues to dominate in-store and online purchases, merchants are feeling increasing pressure from interchange fees, assessment fees, and processor markups. Understanding how these costs affect your bottom line, and how strategies like dual pricing can help, is essential for maintaining profitability.
As payment technology becomes more sophisticated, so do the methods criminals use to exploit it. One tactic that continues to surface across the country is payment card skimming. Recently, skimming devices—known as “skimmers”—have been detected in some regions, prompting a reminder for businesses to stay aware of how their payment
The best POS system does more than process transactions, it serves as the operational backbone of a modern retail business. In 2026, small stores need technology that supports faster checkouts, real-time inventory tracking, flexible payment options, and data-driven insights. Choosing the right POS system helps eliminate inefficiencies while positioning for sustainable growth.
Empowering Communities Through Accessible Meals Golden Arch Enterprises, Inc., which operates several McDonald’s restaurants in California, is setting a new standard for community engagement. Owned and operated by Harris Liu, many of the McDonald’s locations are in economically challenged neighborhoods in Sacramento, where access to affordable meals is critical.
New SNAP restrictions from the USDA Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) are now in effect, introducing important policy changes that redefine how retailers must apply purchase limitations—particularly for items like candy, sugary drinks, and other state‑regulated products. If your store accepts SNAP, these updates may require adjustments to your POS
Many of the biggest challenges small retailers face today aren’t caused by market conditions alone, but by retail mistakes that go unnoticed in daily operations. Outdated technology, unclear processes, and skipped reviews can quietly erode profit and efficiency. As 2026 introduces new expectations around payments and compliance, addressing these retail mistakes proactively help businesses stay resilient and
POS Integration is essential for businesses that want to offer smooth, reliable payment experiences for every customer–and CHEXIT can help. By connecting payment processing, menu data, reporting tools, and compliance requirements into one system, integrated POS solutions help restaurants reduce errors, speed up transactions, and operate more efficiently.
Accepting EBT through the Restaurant Meal Programs opens the door for businesses to serve more customers while supporting essential community needs. As more individuals rely on SNAP benefits for groceries and everyday essentials, retailers who offer EBT gain a competitive advantage and build stronger customer trust. With the right tools and
If you run a meat market, bakery, deli, or produce stand, you know how important reliable retail weighing scales are. A certified legal-for-trade scale keeps you compliant with legal standards, prevents costly errors, and ensures customers are charged fairly. Best of all, using an accredited scale builds trust – when
Customer loyalty doesn’t happen by accident, it’s built through consistency, connection, and care. In an age where shoppers have endless options, the most successful retailers are the ones who make every visit feel personal. With the right tools and a focus on customer loyalty, small businesses can transform casual shoppers
Today’s shoppers expect to pay their way, whether that’s with cash, credit or debit card, digital wallets, or SNAP/EBT. Retailers with modern smart POS systems can give their customers payment flexibility and more. In today’s retail environment, offering payment options isn’t just convenient; it’s good business. It helps attract more
Starting your EBT Retailer Application is more than just paperwork, it’s a strategic move to expand your customer reach and strengthen your store’s community impact. By becoming SNAP-authorized, your business can better serve families who rely on EBT benefits while increasing sales on everyday essentials. The process is simpler than
A reliable point of sale system is the backbone of successful retail operations. Beyond processing payments, today’s POS technology helps store owners stay ahead of inventory challenges, uncover sales trends, and make smarter business decisions. With automation and real-time tracking, retailers can reduce errors, boost efficiency, and keep shelves stocked
Retail store management goes far beyond inventory and staffing; it’s also about making checkout effortless. When customers can’t pay how they want, sales are lost, and loyalty erodes. By investing in modern retail store management solutions, retailers can accept every payment type, simplify operations, and deliver the seamless experience today’s
Upgrading to a modern POS system can significantly improve these aspects and enhance overall store performance. POS system performance can make or break your retail operations. When it’s outdated, slow, or limited in features, it hurts efficiency and customer satisfaction. Recognizing the 7 signs it’s time to upgrade your POS
Understanding how to apply for a Restaurant Meal Program (RMP) can feel overwhelming, but the benefits make it worth the effort. The RMP allows eligible restaurants to accept EBT for hot meals, creating new opportunities to serve your communities. With the right steps, your restaurant can join and make a
Learning how to increase sales in a retail store operations is the key to long-term success. With shoppers returning to physical store, in the past couple of years, the opportunity to grow is bigger than ever. By focusing on customer loyalty, smart inventory planning, omnichannel strategies, and modern POS tools,
Opening an independent grocery store is a great opportunity to meet rising demand for locally-based staple food items. However, knowing how to open a grocery store requires more than just passion. From planning and licensing to financing and technology, this guide covers the essential steps every new owner needs to
Choosing the best payment processor for your small business is more important than ever. Today’s shoppers expect fast, secure, and flexible payment options, ranging from credit cards to mobile e-wallets. Selecting the best processor ensures you can meet these expectations while improving your cash flow, boosting efficiency, and supporting your
A retail inventory system is a technology-driven solution that helps businesses manage stock levels, monitor product movement, and analyze sales data. It streamlines tasks like demand forecasting, tracking sales, and reordering products at the right time. Many modern systems combine POS and inventory management into one platform — an efficient,
What is Demand forecasting? Demand forecasting helps small retailers predict what customers will buy and when. By using data, you can avoid stockouts, reduce waste, and prepare for seasonal trends. Learn how forecasting tools can optimize your inventory and boost your store’s success.
In today’s competitive grocery landscape, small and mid-sized stores must find creative ways to stay profitable without raising prices. One of the most effective strategies is to boost margins with value-added services—enhancements that improve the customer experience and drive loyalty. From smarter POS systems to personalized rewards programs and curbside
Navigating the EBT/SNAP Approval Journey | How to Accept EBT Payments
C-store trends 2025 reflect a rapidly evolving retail landscape where convenience stores are becoming more than quick stops — they’re transforming into full-service community hubs. From elevated customer experiences to seamless tech and expanded food offerings, these convenience store industry trends show how the sector is adapting to consumer expectations.
A steady flow of customers doesn’t just boost revenue – it builds brand awareness, strengthens customer loyalty, and creates a sense of community.
Why Your Store Should Switch to a Dual Pricing Program, How Dual Pricing Programs Save Your Store Money
Discover the news about SNAP EBT chip card technology, how skimming has become a serious problem, and new security-compliant EBT chip cards are essential to combat it.
The concept of “food as medicine” is revolutionizing the role of grocers in promoting public health. With a focus on healthy choices and increased access, grocers are becoming key partners in their customers’ wellness journeys.
The holiday season, with its flurry of shoppers and ringing cash registers, can be a retail high. But what follows often feels like a steep drop – the post-holiday slump. As a store owner, you might find this period challenging, but it’s also an opportunity to get creative and keep
The FNS Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) is an initiative that is making a significant impact in the fight against hunger. This program, operated by individual states, enables SNAP recipients to use their benefits at various restaurants, including quick-service ones, to purchase prepared meals. This initiative is not just about providing
Adapting to the needs of your customers is key to driving sales and enhancing the shopping experience. One way to open your doors to a new population and enhance the customer experience for SNAP recipients is by accepting EBT payments. Once you are set up to accept EBT payments, advertising
Discover 24 key convenience store industry trends for 2024 in this free guide from goEBT!
In today’s retail environment, where inflation and economic uncertainty are at the forefront of consumers’ minds, store owners must navigate the delicate balance between quality and affordability. As customers become more price-sensitive, understanding their needs and adjusting business strategies accordingly is essential.
Convenience stores have been known for their selection of snacks and drinks, but recently they are becoming a destination for travelers to stop for meals. With convenience being a key trend and the “grab-and-go” lifestyle becoming increasingly popular, c-stores are elevating their foodservice offerings. Here are some ways c-stores are
With time being the new currency, convenience stores are becoming hubs for quick shopping, food, and more, redefining the retail landscape. The latest census data from NACS highlights another year where the number of convenience stores increased across the United States. In a market that is growing more saturated, store
The grocery industry is expected to transform in 2024, driven by evolving consumer behaviors and technological advancements. For store owners, staying ahead of these trends is not only beneficial, but important for success this year. Learn the pivotal trends that grocery store owners should watch and adapt to in 2024
The USDA’s new Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) program provides retailers a unique opportunity to tap into a significant market segment and add to their revenue streams. The USDA initiative, aimed at closing the summer hunger gap for children, is not just a stride towards national nutrition and health; it’s
To kick off a new and exciting year, catch up on goEBT’s top posts of 2023. Find a new business tip, learn something new, or just catch up on goEBT news with the top 5 most viewed posts of 2023…
During the holiday season, convenience store and grocery owners are presented with a golden opportunity to capitalize on the significant increase in travel. According to AAA, a staggering 115.2 million Americans are expected to travel this holiday season, marking the second highest year-end travel forecast since 2000. This increase in
In recent years, nearly every industry has faced challenges like increasing inflation and reduced consumer buying power. Supermarkets and grocers, despite being community staples, are not immune to these evolving economic landscapes. However, in the face of these challenges, grocers have shown remarkable adaptability and innovation, seeking new growth avenues
As we head into this holiday season, a significant shift in the retail landscape is emerging, one that requires a strategic response from retailers. Recent reports, including a detailed analysis from the Wall Street Journal, highlight a trend of cooling inflation, presenting both challenges and opportunities for retailers.
The holiday season is a crucial time for store owners. It’s not just about festive decorations and playing holiday music; it’s about understanding customer needs, stocking the right products, and creating an environment that enhances the shopping experience. Here are a few quick tips as we head into the holiday
In recent years, convenience stores have transformed from being mere pit stops for a quick snack or fuel refill to becoming essential neighborhood hubs. These small, unassuming stores are now playing a pivotal role in fostering a sense of community and convenience that goes beyond their primary function. Let’s explore
The USDA recently announced an increase in SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits, set to take effect on October 1st. This boost in assistance is aimed at providing relief to millions of Americans struggling to put food on the table.
Hispanic Heritage Month, celebrated from September 15th to October 15th, is a significant time to honor the rich cultural contributions of Hispanic and Latinx communities in the United States. Stores like yours play an integral role in our communities and it’s essential to recognize and celebrate this cultural diversity in
The holiday season is a crucial time for retailers of all kinds. Whether you run a grocery store, a convenience store (c-store), or a specialty retail shop, planning your inventory for holidays like Christmas and Thanksgiving is essential to meet customer demand, maximize profits, and ensure a smooth shopping experience.
If you’re a business owner looking to increase your customer base and boost sales, accepting EBT payments is a smart move. Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) is a government program that provides assistance to low-income individuals and families, making it an essential part of many households’ financial resources. By accepting EBT
Ensuring food safety in convenience stores is key for store owners operating a foodservice option. We understand the importance of a clean and safe shopping environment, especially when it comes to food. We’ve gathered valuable insights from a recent article by NACS (National Association of Convenience Stores) to provide you
Welcome, fellow store owners, to a revitalizing journey into transforming your healthy food offerings. Are you ready to boost your business by nourishing your customers? Let’s dive into three data-backed strategies that will energize your store and delight your health-conscious clientele.
As a grocer or convenience store owner, you know the importance of connecting with your local community to boost sales and foster customer loyalty. However, marketing efforts can be costly, especially for small businesses with limited budgets. But fear not! Here are six low-cost and highly effective ways to market
With fuel retail being a competitive industry, understanding customer behavior is crucial for staying ahead of the game. Selling fuel is not just about offering a product; it’s about creating a positive experience for customers and meeting their needs, even when they might be in a bad mood. Learn more
In the face of declining grocery sales, grocers must rise to the challenge and seek innovative ways to enhance revenue streams. The June 2023 Retail Census Bureau report has shed light on the need for adaptation and transformation in the grocery industry. In this blog post, we explore potential solutions
The global economy is a complex web of interconnected systems, and one of the most crucial links in this intricate network is the supply chain. The supply chain is responsible for ensuring the smooth flow of goods and services from manufacturers to consumers worldwide. However, in recent times, the supply
The landscape of grocery retail in the United States has been evolving rapidly, driven by changing consumer preferences, technological advancements, and shifting market dynamics. According to a recent report published by Supermarket News, the US grocery retail industry is poised for steady growth, with a projected annual increase of 6%.
The grocery industry is a vital part of our everyday lives, and its continuous evolution impacts consumers, retailers, and suppliers alike. In the 90th annual report released by Progressive Grocer, a leading industry publication, a significant focus was placed on the PG-100—the top 100 grocery retailers in the United States.
In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift in consumer behavior and expectations. Customers are no longer solely focused on the products or services a company offers; they also want to align themselves with brands that share their values and actively contribute to social issues. This growing trend highlights
Store owners may not realize the impact litter has on customer perception and the environment. While factors such as quality products, excellent customer service, and competitive pricing are widely recognized as crucial elements, one aspect that is often overlooked is the store itself. The presence of litter can significantly influence
Convenience stores, groceries, and bodegas are known for snack stops. Whether your store attracts road trip snackers or city dwellers looking for a late-night snack from your bodega or grocery store, snacking is a key category for business. Even more so the last couple of years with consumer snacking being
Foodservice for convenience stores grew in 2022 and brought in more profit for business owners. In order to keep up with changing customer needs, it is important to make changes to your menu every once in a while. Food trends are constantly changing, so be sure to ask your customers
The 4th of July brings convenience stores more road trip customers, grocers more customers looking for supplies for their cookout, and other specialty retailers more people looking for 4th of July themed goods. According to a recent report from the Vacationer, 219 million American adults say they intend to travel
SNAP customers shop can use their EBT cards to purchase healthy food items from convenience stores, grocery stores, quick service restaurants (in states that operate an RMP), bodegas, and other specialty retailers. What you may not know is SNAP customers can bring in a new revenue stream to your business.
Retailers need to know the importance of building customer loyalty for their business. Even convenience store owners, grocers, pharmacies, and other specialty retailers experience the benefits loyal customers bring. Returning customers spend 67% more than new customers, according to business.com. Winning these customers can also increase awareness for your store,
Sodas fountains can be essential if your business is trying to grow its dispensed beverage category. With 67% of operators noted an increase in fountain drink sales last year, owners should take a look at their soda fountain and see how they can make it even better. When you invest
NACS (National Association of Convenience Stores) predicts 37.1 million Americans will go on a road trip for Memorial Day, up 6% from last year. With more travelers on the road, convenience stores, grocery stores, and other specialty retailers should expect increased foot traffic during the holiday weekend.
Grocers, c-store owners, and other retailers have experienced a challenging labor market recently. COVID-19 impacted the labor market in many ways. Store owners are experiencing a shortage of employees, higher turnover rates, and difficulty hiring. 3 ways store owners can help alleviate these challenges are…
Shopper demographics are shifting, and store owners need to learn about the generations that are going to influence their business. Convenience Store News’ 2023 consumer study revealed that Millennials and Gen Z are “increasingly shaping the convenience store proposition.” A few key generational insights include…
Convenience store foodservice has been a big trend so far this year. From boosting overall in-store sales to bringing in more customers, foodservice has brought many benefits to store owners. While foodservice is a great, high-margin addition to business it can also be competitive. Here are 4 ways to get
Convenience store foodservice sales have boosted in-store sales to $302.8 billion, a 9% increase from the previous year, according to NACS State of the Industry Summit. The report also noted, in-store sales accounted for 33.4% of industry sales, with total sales being $906.1 billion. 5 reasons for this increase according
Grocery stores, convenience stores, and bodegas are often frequented by in-store shoppers over an online environment, even with more consumers shopping online in other categories. A recent Grocery Store Dive article broke down in-store shopping statistics by generation and found that…
Store owners need to know their customers. Customer behavior provides insight that allows business owners to make changes to improve their customers’ experiences. A recent NACS report dives into convenience customer behavior and identifies these 3 shopper types…
The average convenience store customer spends under 4 minutes in the store. It is important for store owners to know the average customer and pay attention to key trends so they can optimize their store to best serve their business and their customers. Explorer research recently conducted a study that
Since convenience store packaged beverage sales grew by over 12% in 2022, it is important for store owners to keep up with key trends for 2023 to continue sales growth this year. A recent Convenience Store News article noted the key trends for retailers to pay attention to this year
Convenience stores are known to be quick stops for fuel and a snack. Post-pandemic, more consumers are focused on their health than ever before. With this trend, convenience stores must adjust their inventory to include healthier options customers want. Here are 10 healthy snacks c-store owners must add to their
Convenience store coffee sales took a hit during the pandemic but have been back on the rise since 2021. Coffee cravers are back to fueling up with their daily caffeine dose at c-stores. With more people returning to the office, stopping at the local c-store for coffee is back to
Accepting EBT at your store has many benefits for your business. A recent Supermarket News article cited “SNAP households represent 24% of U.S. consumer goods spend.” Opening your doors to this new market can increase your revenue and your store’s foot traffic.
The requirements to accept EBT payments in your store can be confusing for owners. Seeing if you qualify to be a SNAP retailer, the application process, and even the reauthorization process for existing retailers can be time-consuming and difficult for busy store owners. Make the process a little easier with
Learn how to accept EBT payments at your restaurant. SNAP recipients can use their EBT cards to purchase hot/prepared meals from restaurants with the Restaurant Meals Program through Food and Nutrition Services (FNS). This program is a great initiative from FNS that increases access to nutritionally balanced, prepared meals. Here
Restroom cleanliness, layout, and overall design have a bigger impact on c-store and grocer customers than you may realize. An unclean restroom can lead to increased customer complaints, less return customers, decreased in-store purchases and other challenges. On the flip side, having a clean restroom can help encourage customer loyalty,
Bakery items can often get lost in convenience stores, grocery stores, and bodegas. This could lead to food loss due to not selling your fresh baked bread, bagels, and more as well as lost sales. Here are 4 ways to make your baked goods stand out, attract more sales, and
Quick-service restaurants, grocers, convenience stores, and other specialty retailers are expected to focus on sustainability and food traceability this year. Consumers now care more about their food, where it’s from, and how it is made, and more according to C-Store News. Here are 3 things to know to keep up
Marketing your QSR may be easier than you think. Taking advantage of simple marketing tactics can be helpful for all kinds of retailers, but here are some tips for how to market your QSR to increase foot traffic…
Shoplifting is a big problem for a variety of retailers, but especially for retailers like grocery stores and convenience stores that have products with lower margins. According to FBI crime data, there were 548K shoplifting cases in 2021. Additionally, the Annual Retail Theft Survey reported that retailers lose $15-$20B annually
Stay powered up with goEBT! Get the latest news, trends, and tips to grow your business – delivered right to your inbox.