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
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 Outdated technology, unclear processes, and skipped reviews can quietly erode profit and efficiency.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.
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
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
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
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 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.
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.
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 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.
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
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,
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…
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
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
SNAP retailers are key access points to healthy, nutritious foods for SNAP recipients. USDA announced a $25M investment for SNAP healthy incentives. This will help SNAP retailers provide coupons, promotions, or special discounts on healthy items like fruits and vegetables for SNAP recipients.
Convenience stores have been upping their foodservice game over the last couple of years. In 2021, foodservice sales reached a record high of $43.2 billion in sales, and 20.5% increase from 2020. Convenience stores are evolving to stops for people to fuel not only their cars, but themselves too.
Convenience stores have become popular stops for quick and convenient meals. Foodservice sales increased by 20.5% to $43.2 billion in 2021, yet 6 in 10 shoppers are not happy with the current selection of healthy foods. The post-pandemic world has brought an intense focus on physical health and well-being, as
To kick off a new and exciting year, catch up on goEBT’s top posts of 2022. Find a new business tip, learn something new, or just catch up on goEBT news with the top 5 most viewed posts of 2022…
Independent grocers, c-stores, and other specialty retailers are prime pieces in the puzzle of fighting hunger. These retailers are key community pillars that economically support many in their community, especially people like SNAP recipients.
C-stores, grocers, and specialty retailers should gear up for Christmas. The holiday season is certain to be a busy one. 47% of Americans plan to travel this season, according to travel leisure and consumers plan to spend $832.84 on average for holiday items like food and décor and gifts, according
C-Stores’ fresh/prepared food sales increased 21.3% from 2020, according to NACS 2021 industry report. With this fact in mind, more c-stores may choose to feature prepared foods so it is really important to be educated in food safety so your store can continue to enjoy boosted fresh food sales.
Food deserts are defined by the USDA as “low-income census tracts with a substantial number or share of residents with low levels of access to retail outlets selling healthy and affordable foods.” In food deserts it is extremely difficult for kids, families, and communities to access foods that promote health
Keeping up with changing requirements for proper age verification can be a challenge for retailers. It is difficult to keep regulators, customers and even your employees satisfied. How do you balance between having a strict 100% ID check policy, trusting your employees to make good judgements, and keeping your regular
TruAge is an innovative, universally accepted age-verification system that makes it more accurate to verify an adult customer’s age when purchasing age-restricted products, and at the same time makes identity theft difficult. One-time-use digital tokens are used to share only the most important elements to confirm the purchaser is of legal age, which
Retailers nationwide are preparing to accommodate all things fall this season – from seasonal produce to Halloween candy and more! In honor of the first day of fall, let’s dive in to what inventory trends you should expect to see this fall.
Inflation is another challenge retail stores are having to face this year. Rising costs can hit businesses hard, but there are ways you can work towards minimizing the impact inflation has on your business. Here are 4 ways you can combat inflation at your retail store, according to a blog
Retail store owners of convenience stores, grocery stores, specialty retail and the like can experience big benefits by investing in technology. It has made its way into almost every facet of our lives and has proven to be a necessity. Although technology can have its drawbacks, there is no doubt
Farmers fuel food sustainability by using digital agriculture platforms that improve farming efficiency and optimize the food supply chain. Technology has been optimizing every area of our lives since the digital revolution began, so it only makes sense that this idea made its way into our food system. Here are
Local farmers and the USDA bring fresh local food to schools to enrich the connection communities have with local food producers with the Farm to School grant program. This program was a part of the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act, like the National School Lunch Program, that aims
Age verification is important now more than ever since there are approximately 54,000,000 age-restricted transactions per day. The United States has laws in place that protect minors from age-restricted items, and if your store accidentally makes an age-restricted sale to a minor, then you could possibly face legal trouble. Here
The National School Lunch Program is arguably the most important anti-hunger program for school children in the United States. As we welcome kids back to school for the 2022-2023 school year, let’s learn more about the NSLP and its impact in the United States …
FNS reauthorization might sound like another painful task you want to put off, but the reality is the process is easier than you think! How do you know you need to apply for FNS reauthorization? You will receive a letter in the mail telling you that it is time to
Food insecurity has become a larger and larger issue over the last few years, but the USDA has been working diligently to help lessen the impacts of this issue.
From COVID-19 to conflicts like the Russia-Ukraine war to rising costs from inflation and food supply chain issues, the last two-and-a-half years have not been easy for any of us. COVID-19 has impacted nearly every facet of our lives worldwide, but it has had a particularly strong impact on food
SNAP recipients come from a variety of backgrounds and situations. While we may think we know who uses SNAP, the reality is SNAP recipients are far more diverse than most people realize, and can include your friends, neighbors, family, coworkers, etc. SNAP users are more varied and a lot closer
The USDA has announced a new framework that aims to create a more fair, competitive, and resilient food system. This system builds on the existing work the USDA has been doing since 2021 to address supply chain and structural issues. The last few years have shown issues in our food
SNAP retailer requirements are strict, and keeping track of mistakes can be a complex process. Although SNAP fraud is relatively rare, failure to comply with program rules can result in severe consequences for your business, such as: Temporary or permanent disqualification from the program Monetary penalties and fines Criminal prosecution To help you navigate program rules, we’ve put together a list of common
On Monday, August 16, 2021, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) released a re-evaluation of the Thrifty Food Plan, which is used to calculate Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. As a result of this re-evaluation, the average SNAP benefit–excluding additional funds provided as part of COVID-19 pandemic relief–will increase beginning on October 1, 2021.
50 Years and Counting in the Food Industry goEBT EBT processing merchant Sr. Cliff’s Texas Style Burritos, home of the original Soul Man burrito, has been providing Afro-Mexican fusion food to the Compton community since 1992. However, the story of this community staple actually began in 1969, when founder and
EBT Processor goEBT Adds Credit Processing, Smart Payment Terminals to Service Offering goEBT+ payment terminal application enables EBT, credit processing on one smart device
Amidst Economic Uncertainty, Pandemic, CDE Grows Employee Headcount by 33%, Adds Office in Greater Atlanta Marietta-based payment solutions provider expands presence with new office space, staff
Bluefin and CDE Partner to Provide Secure Payment Services to Essential Businesses Despite COVID-19 Restrictions Companies leverage PCI-validated P2PE to protect business continuity for healthcare
Now more than ever the American people will be turning to local businesses to meet their families’ nutritional needs. With the economic impact of COVID-19 the number of applicants for government assistance has doubled. As part of the U.S. government’s $2T stimulus package, an additional $15.5B has been allocated to
It’s no secret that in today’s world, businesses and consumers are more mobile than ever before. With this evolution there has been increasing demand for more wireless payment devices and solutions. Providing an ideal mobile point of sale experience requires having reliable network connection that doesn’t cost a fortune. CDE
It’s unfortunate to admit but with past legislation, many C-Stores were left on the hook for crimes not caused by themselves. Recent years saw many convenient stores covering for issues caused by processing companies and credit consolidators like Equifax. These issues, mainly data breaches, cost millions of dollars to consumers
As younger generations reach the age of 18 and older, technology will continue to make advancements in the private sector. These tech-savvy individuals will expect the latest, most convenient, and most secure technology in nearly every aspect of their lifestyles as they move through the world. While many companies already
Earlier this year, Hawaii lawmakers proposed a bipartisan bill that would begin to eliminate cigarettes from the entire state over the next several years. This new bill aims to first raise the legal purchasing age for tobacco to 100 years old. That’s right, if approved, this new law would make
Just as electronic payments disrupted retail, B2B payments are revolutionizing money transfers and business management. Here are three trends impacting B2B in 2019. 1. Blockchain: Speed and Accuracy
Think money laundering, and you might picture bags of cash and back alley deals. But that’s not the real picture at all. Money laundering is an increasingly prevalent, dangerous and expensive problem in the US payments industry. Transaction laundering is responsible for a shocking $200 billion in fraud in the
According to the National Association for Shoplifting Prevention, more than $35 million worth of items is stolen from retailers across the U.S. every day. This amount covers theft of all kinds of products from electronics to clothing, and even groceries. This statistic should be scary for any owner of a
You may have heard of the term “loyalty program” and you may even be a member of a few yourself. Even if you understand the benefits of adding a loyalty program to your own store for your customers, it can seem like a very difficult or expensive task to start
The first month of the new year is over and February has tiptoed onto our path. February is famously known for being the month of love. For that very reason, many consumers focus their attention on items that may correspond with that emotion. As a convenience store, sweets like chocolate
A good store owner is always reflecting on how to improve business. There are many ways to modify a retailer’s financial strategy. It does not always have to involve selling more products or services. At times, you need to take a step back and look behind your own doors. The
As the years go on, it is more important than ever to help the environment in any way possible. There are thousands, if not millions, of organizations that dedicate years into building a greener society for everyone. This greener society is to be pro-environment and produce as little waste as possible. With
About every five years, it is the government’s duty to pass a new Farm Bill that molds the foundation for food and agriculture, and other similar matters. Last month, in December, the 2018 Farm Bill was passed by the Senate and House. Soon after the President gave his signature, allowing
Our Merchant Spotlight for the month of January goes to Nabeel Ahmed! This proud goEBT merchant is the owner of S & M Grocery in Griffin, GA.
It’s the beginning of the new year and the future is exciting. 2018, is in the past and done. No matter how hard you wish you can’t reverse time, but you can still take a look at the helpful articles, that have been written, at goEBT. Even though each article is
It’s only been a few days now in 2019 and the year is looking bright. You have finished 2018 and are eager to hit the ground running. The holidays have ended, and it’s time to look forward. Despite the next major holiday being Valentine’s Day, and not nearly as popular
The new year is right around the corner. 2018 has flown by and is almost in the rear-view mirror. Despite the ups and downs of the c-store industry this year, you should still be ready to enter 2019 with a positive outlook for your business and your life.
Customers around the nation suffer the same fate of waking up and being low on energy. Whether it’s sleeping late or not being able to sleep at all, the problem is consistent and not going away.
Our Merchant Spotlight for the month of December goes to Fedie Chani! This proud goEBT partner is the owner of Roosevelt Connect Mart. His establishment is located in the “Windy City” of Chicago, Illinois.
With today’s POS systems, developers are competing for merchant dollars. Whoever can build the most bells and whistles into their tablet system can gain a real edge over the competition. This benefit holds true for merchants as well. By utilizing all the features built into their POS systems, merchants can
With all the headlines about payment innovation, you’d think we would be living in a tech utopia. But the reality is not so glamorous. Here in the US, payment change comes slowly. Our financial ecosystem is so large and complex that any meaningful innovation is just difficult to enact.
One year ago today, The Clearing House debuted RTP, its Real Time Payments system for the US financial market. Supported by all the member banks of The Clearing House, RTP is off to a strong start. It’s estimated that 50% of eligible demand-deposit accounts will be able to receive an
Consumers continue to want a healthier, greener, and more organic lifestyle, so their switching up everything from their cars to the water they drink. Consumers still enjoy the bubbly fizz soda offers, but desire the health benefits of water. That’s why we’ve seen a spike in sales for sparkling water.
For years, we’ve been hearing that checks are dead. It seems that most consumers have ditched their checkbooks (except for the slowpokes in front of you at the grocery store.) So why should retailers consider accepting check payments? These four reasons may encourage you to promote check acceptance to your
UPDATE: This year, Halloween spending is expected to reach $9 billion. This number is second in 14 years only to last year’s record of $9.1 billion. While $6.3 billion is expected to be spent on costumes, decorations, and greeting cards, there is still $2.6 billion dollars left to be spent on
The rise in internet-connected devices brings terrific benefits to retailers: easier inventory management, increased data collection, targeted customer promotions and much more. But this same connectivity can leave retailers vulnerable to data breaches due to hackers and malware. When considering implementing IoT applications in a business setting, retailers need to
In today’s highly personalized and competitive retail world, data is gold. Modern POS systems specialize in collecting data so that merchants can improve business operations and profitability. But there’s another valuable tool that your merchants may overlook: the IoT.
Are we finally getting ready to ditch the plastic card? Are wearables the next big thing? Judging by the buzz in the industry, you might think so. However, form innovation is just not ready to take off in the US.
Although technology has changed shopping to a mostly seamless digital experience for most of us, life is still not as convenient for all consumers. Especially consumers who are primarily low income, unbanked, or underbanked and left without access to online shopping or to debit cards. These also happen to be
Many QSR owners resist bringing mobile apps into their operations. After all, they’ve decided to run a restaurant, not a website. And busy restaurant owners have little time free to hassle with technology. However, by neglecting ecommerce, QSRs are leaving money on the table.
From retail to QSR and every vertical in between, it’s amazing how specialized POS systems have become. As a merchant acquirer, you can find payment products tailored to any type of business. New POS systems may be bursting with features, but bells and whistles are only as good as they
In payment processing, acquiring new merchant accounts is time consuming and costly. And with churn rates running up to 22% every year, it’s a never-ending hassle. But there is one profitable vertical that acquirers have yet to tap: mobile merchants.
There’s no doubt about it. From online grocery orders to pop-up Instagram shops, ecommerce is a fabulous vertical for many consumer goods. So where does that leave retail? Is retail doomed?
Unattended retail is a great way for your retailers to cut labor costs and build efficiency. From grocery self checkout to payment kiosks, unattended retail is growing in popularity every year. But it’s important to realize that unattended retail comes with some unique fraud risks. Be aware of these risks
Customers stop at convenience stores to get a variety of things: gas, food, coffee, soda, tobacco products, but have you ever thought about what products make your c-store so valuable? People don’t go to convenience stores to shop around like they would at a grocery store. They go in looking
From local independent retailers to global hospitality brands, the point of sale industry is highly diverse. As a payment service provider, you need to know where your customers are headed, so that you can help them meet their current and emerging needs. Let’s look at 3 top business verticals and
If your clients handle payments for large-scale events such as concerts, sporting events, tradeshows and conventions, you know that POS needs are complex. From ticketing to merchandise sales and inventory management, your merchants need the right POS provisioning to manage a successful event. Let’s consider 3 critical POS needs unique
We’ve written posts before about the importance of making sure that your store is ready to serve the specific customers in your area. To do this, you should not only understand the interests of your customers, but also the challenges to seeing success at your store’s location. While you can
Technology is constantly evolving and consumers’ shopping behaviors are changing with it. The advances in technology have made people want things even quicker, appreciate environmentally friendly options more, and above all demand more convenience. For businesses, that means evolving retail models in an attempt to keep up with the quickly
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