Thinking About Mobile Tech For Your C-Store??
By 2018 there will be more mobile devices than people on the planet. This means that mobile is one of the easiest ways to communicate and build relationships with your customers. A mobile application for your store will allow you to engage with them in their preferred method of communication, and explore a whole new way […]
Merchant Snapshot: Little Giant, Big Dreams
Ravi Patel is the owner of Little Giant convenience store in Calhoun, Georgia. For the last six years, Patel has strived to make his business better than his competition by going above and beyond in the areas of customer service and convenience.
Candy Craze: Understanding Current Trends
Candy dollar sales are predicted to grow 1.8 percent in 2017. Take advantage of this growth by learning the current trends that customers will want to buy from your c-store.
Zero in on Beverage Sales
While gasoline purchases are the number one reason why shoppers go to convenience stores, food and beverages follow close behind at number two. Consumers of all ages are drawn to the ease of grabbing a quick drink whether it’s on their way to work or before they get back on the road for a road […]
Optimize Your Space for More Summer Profits
During the Summer months, customers will be pouring into c-stores in search for their favorite products. As your store begins to gain heavier foot traffic, prepare for the increase in customers by optimizing your store’s space. Many store owners find that their store is lacking organization or structure that can be hindering their customer’s overall experience. Learn how […]
School’s Almost Out: Time to Add New Products
C-store sales often get a summertime boost due to thirsty out-of-school kids. Take advantage of the 4.5% increase in sales by choosing items specifically for warmer months. Picking the right products and learning how to market towards children can make a huge splash in your Summer profits.
Grocery Delivery: Should You Worry?
Studies say that most people spend 53 hours a year at the grocery store. However, as technology has evolved and the consumer demand for more convenience has grown, more consumers are turning toward grocery delivery options. In fact, as of 2015 a quarter of global respondents were already ordering groceries online and having them delivered […]
A Growing C-Store Industry
Large companies are on the hunt to acquire c-stores. Just in 2017, there have been hundreds of stores acquired pushing new competitors into the c-store market. As companies compete for growth it is important to know the latest company acquisitions, the pros and cons of selling your store, and what the outlook is for the […]
Who Are the Most Frequent C-store Shoppers?
The convenience store is a staple in almost every neighborhood. Although these neighborhoods and the people who live in them are all different, some studies have shown that trends do exist across the convenience industry and the customers that frequent stores across the country. While your “regular” customers may frequent your c-store simply because they’re […]
Is Your Store Summer Ready?
Seasonality is more important than you may think to your store’s success. It’s June now and you can surely count on your customers to start coming into your store for those summertime essentials. Sure, your regular customers will likely still visit to pick up their typical items, but many will likely start to change or […]
Is Your Checkout Counter Helping or Hurting Your Sales?
The checkout counter is the last chance to get customers to purchase additional items and leaves a lasting impression in customers’ minds. Making sure your counter has a tempting “selling zone” that draws in impulse shoppers to increase your profits. Understanding what is working and how you can improve can make all the difference. If […]
The Risk of Operating Out of Fear
Owning and operating your very own business comes with a lot of responsibility, which for some people, can mean a lot of worry. While it can be easy to get caught up in the anxiety of failing or making mistakes, operating your c-store in a constant state of fear could be the reason your business […]
The Top 7 Reasons Consumers Choose Another Store
There are over 155,000 c-stores in the Unites States alone. Competition is on every owner’s mind. Whether it is a new business opening down the street or a rival store that you’ve been competing with for years, understanding how customers think and why they might choose another store over you is the first step improving your c-store.
How is Your Health Inspector Relationship?
In today’s regulatory environment, health inspectors are evaluating retailers on the efforts they are making to keep their consumers safe rather than what might already be wrong. Inspections are no longer only intended to check for obvious potential dangers, but also to examine the procedures and standards in an individual business. As inspectors are becoming […]
C-Store Category Data is Your Friend
Keeping the right products in your store is about more than simply finding the ones you get a great deal on, the ones other stores are carrying, or even the ones customers have bought before. Deciding what products you should stock in your store, and how, should rely on a careful strategy. This strategy is […]
How Out-of-Stock Products Are Affecting Profits
Out of stock can sometimes mean out of business, according to Jim Callahan of Convenience Store Decisions. Many owners have not been paying attention to the effects that out-of-stock products can have on a c-store. It is important to understand how this is happening and how it can cause you to lose major profits if […]
Essential Tips for C-Store Owners: Customer Service, Cleanliness, and Stocked Shelves
We really can’t say this enough: Owning and operating a convenience store is a tough job. When you are a single store owner with very little help, this job is even harder. Not only do many c-store owners independently own and operate their store, they are often actually doing the day to day work inside […]
Strategic Pricing for Maximum Profit
One of the most important aspects of owning a c-store is deciding product pricing to make the most profit. Learning to develop your pricing strategies, knowing what to avoid, and understanding the importance of knowing your competition’s prices helps you be informed and make the best pricing decisions. The following information will give you a foundation […]
How the C-Store Is Becoming the Neighborhood Hub
When someone says “convenient store” or “c-store” some people think of a very small store, often connected to a gas station, filled with snacks and beverages. Many people frequent c-stores for their junk food fixes or grab-and-go meals. However, many business owners are redefining the c-store by making the most of their space and location […]
Effective Customer Communication Tips for Convenience Store Owners
A large part of being successful within the convenience industry is being able to provide great customer service. One way many owners fall short is by not understanding how much communication with your customers can affect this service. It is important to learn the common errors that occur and how you can easily improve communication […]
Making Sure Your C-Store is Secure
In the ‘80s, ‘90s and early 2000s, the FBI took great strides in educating and protecting c-store chains from crime. In recent years, many new ‘Mom and Pop’ single owner stores have emerged into the c-store industry. Without the proper knowledge and resources, these stores have become vulnerable to crime, especially those choosing to operate 24 hours […]
Stocking Your C-Store: Distributors vs. Wholesale Stores
One of the toughest, yet most important, responsibilities that comes with being the owner and operator of a convenience store is keeping your store stocked with all of the products your customers want and need. This task is especially difficult when you’re a single store owner with nowhere near the same resources as the large […]
Preparation: The Only Defense Against Disasters
Know Your Location’s Risks
Top 5 Most Confusing C-Store Concepts
Running a c-store is becoming increasingly complex. Combine together new trends with changing technology and new competitors, and you’ll find that running a c-store can seem overwhelming. Here are the top five most confusing c-store concepts explained so you can understand what is going on with the convenience industry today.
SNAP Through the Years
Today, there are roughly 44.2 million Americans receiving food stamp benefits, including children. With an average of $125 in benefits being issued to each individual in the program, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a critical part of the federal aid available to low income Americans. Over the years, the program has evolved a […]
The Modern C-Store: Redefining Convenience, Health, and Indulgence
C-store’s are evolving quickly as a younger generation of owners are coming in and changing the way we view convenience. The “modern convenience concept” includes an array of new techniques that appeal to both older and younger customers. Below are some of typical “modern” c-store components to help you understand what is different about these new […]
The Top C-Store Chains That Started Small
7-Eleven
Don’t Mess with Uncle Sam: C-Store Tax Guide
Tax Season is well underway, and while most of us would probably like to think about taxes as little as possible, it’s important that both you and your store are ready. Between filing your own business’ tax returns and your consumers filing theirs, there is plenty to consider between now and April 18th.
The C-Store Matters On Valentine’s Day Too
54.8% of consumers celebrate Valentine’s Day. Every February customers spend money on candy, flowers, and other holiday related products. With total spending expected to reach $18.2 billion, it is important to make sure your store is stocked and ready for Valentine’s Day.
Tobacco and Alcohol: What Should You Carry?
Trying to decide what you should sell in your store can be stressful. Cigarettes and alcohol sales have been a major factor in c-store sales over the last several years. Now with recent changes in government regulations make sure you are aware of what is happening and how it can affect your c-store this coming […]
Tax Time is Approaching, Prepare Your Store
It’s 2017 and W-2s have been printed and mailed. While you’re planning for you own tax obligations, be aware that many consumers are filing their own taxes and likely receiving a refund. According to IRS data, “8 out of 10 US taxpayers will get a refund averaging just under $3,000”1. Often, these lump sums become […]
Top Convenience Store Events to Boost Your Business in 2017
Throughout the year there are many different events that are specifically intended to benefit the convenience store industry. From food and drink expos, to discussions about new government regulations, there is an event that every c-store owner can benefit from. Look through the list we compiled below to see which events you will want to keep […]
Top Products You Must Stock for the Super Bowl
To prepare for the Super Bowl, U.S. consumers spend $14.3 billion every year, with 79% of people purchasing only food items[i]. No matter where your c-store is, you will undoubtedly be catering to customers who are coming to stock up on all the most popular game day essentials. This means that you need to make […]
Top 6 Apps and Software to Help Build Your C-Store Business
In the past year, numerous apps and different types of software have been developed to help owners take their business to a new level of efficiency. As a hard working c-store owner, you need every piece of technology to save time, money, and keep your business running smoothly. Take a look at our top picks […]
Innovation Matters: Products That You Should Be Considering
The winners of the largest consumer-voted award for product innovation in 2016 have now been announced[i]. Take a look at the innovative products that actually sold last year, new items being introduced this year and those predicted to do well in 2017.
Fight Fraud at the Pump
Mastercard and Visa have moved the liability shift for EMV at the fuel pump from October 2017 to October 2020. So what can you do to fight fraud and protect your customers now without EMV technology? The first step in fighting fraud outside of your c-store is understanding how fuel pump fraud occurs and the […]
C-Store Legislation Outlook for 2017
2016 was a successful year for the convenience retail and gas station industry. Now 2017 is here, and soon, a new President will be inaugurated. Most citizens are expecting change, but many are not sure what kind and to what extent. For many business owners, whether small or large, new legislation on the horizon is […]
Social Influencers: The Most Sought-After Consumers of Our Time
One of the number one customer generators is “word-of-mouth” referrals. As the way that people communicate with one another continues to evolve, we find ourselves a long way away from the days of a true face-to-face recommendation. Now your business’ continued success is depending on the conversations of the internet, social media in particular. With […]
Prepaid Cards: Revolving Income
The prepaid cards industry is often overlooked and underestimated by c-store owners. With over $76.7 billion loaded collectively just in 2014, now is the time to consider selling a product to the 10 million Americans without a checking account may be looking for in your store[i].
First Impressions Are Everything
With 58% of business leaders expecting definite convenience industry growth in 2017[i], it is crucial that owners continue to uphold and enhance their c-store image. This will help you retain old customers, attract new ones, and boost sales in 2017.
Take A Look: Some C-Store Designs You Should Consider
In 2015, 12% of all c-stores underwent renovations[i] ̶ because re-inventing your store’s design is one of the best ways to draw in new customers. Throughout the year sales can rise and drop, so it is very important to make sure you are continually trying to make your store the best that it can be. One way to […]
Improving Your C-Store and Striving for Success
“With gas prices down, many major gasoline retailers are finding new and improved ways to make the traditional refueling experience more efficient and enjoyable for consumers.”[i] In an industry with heavy competition, it is important to stay informed about what other store owners are doing differently. Consider making some of these changes to help your […]
Is Your C-Store Efficient and Up-To-Date?
“Convenience stores don’t just serve communities — they invest in them. With this large investment, they have a stake in the community’s success and seek to enhance it”[i]. As a c-store owner, there is constant pressure to have a business that is up-to-date. This can cost you a lot of time and money. Luckily, there […]
Technology Trends for 2017
Sixty-four percent of c-store owners have labeled new store concepts as a strategic priority for 2017[i]. With innovation around every corner owners are striving to balance an improved shopping experience with expanded offerings. Some of these offerings could include innovative ideas like remote-controlled POS systems, digital fuel sign software, or interactive fuel pumps. With current […]
Connect With Customers: In-Store Wi-Fi
94% of people cite Wi-Fi as the most important amenity a business can provide[i]. Providing internet access for your customers is an easy upgrade to make that will not only transform your c-store, but also give you an edge against competitors. Set yourself up for success in the new year by bringing in this highly […]
Winter Trends: Boosting Your C-Store Sales with Seasonal Products
Along with the cold weather comes the need for new seasonal products. Whether it’s a holiday snack trend or a beverage to keep them warm, customers are wanting new and different products to satisfy their winter cravings.
Transferring the Family-Owned C-store
Preparation is the biggest factor when transferring your store to a family member. After spending countless hours to improve your business and maximize your income, the last thing you want is a lengthy and stressful transfer once you are ready to pass on your store. With your future in mind, the following information will help […]
Family Owned and Operated: Prepare for Continued Success
80 to 90 percent of all businesses are family-owned, -run, or –managed, and 63.1% of all c-stores in the U.S. are owned and operated by just one person[i]. We understand how hard it is to run your own convenience store. After working 60+ hours per week, long term success and transferring your business may not always be the first […]
Credit Card Fraud in C-Stores
In 2014, 31.8 million US consumers had their credit cards used in fraudulent transactions – three times more than in 2013. Now more than ever convenience and small grocery store owners are at risk for fraudulent activity at their business. This makes fraud protection important for store owners to practice. Although it can seem confusing, […]
Produce Isn’t Impossible: Fresh and Healthy in Convenience
In 2013, fresh produce sales in the United States reached an estimated $43 billion1. As consumers continue to seek out healthier meal options, this number continues to rise. Unfortunately, while convenience stores make up 33.9% of all retail locations in the U.S., they account for less than 1% of the fresh produce sales1. However, today’s […]
Maximize the Convenience in Your C-store
Store owners in the convenience store industry obviously rely on convenience to succeed. However, some fail to realize that in today’s retail landscape, convenience is a priority of every business. Most retailers are making changes to the standard retail store to improve the customer experience. Today, the fight to keep a retail business thriving is […]
Putting Your Business Needs in the Right Hands
As a convenience or grocery store owner, you likely rely on a number of other companies and vendors to keep your business running. With an accountant, product distributor, insurance provider, and credit card processor at minimum you already have several different third parties playing a role in your business’ success. While it is easier to […]
Find Good Employees… and KEEP Them
Convenience stores often experience a very high turnover rate and are usually severely understaffed. Store owners have a hard time finding and keeping reliable and dedicated employees, especially in small single-location businesses. Of course, there are common human resources struggles in the hiring process and the fact that many people simply avoid working in retail […]
What to Look for in Your Ideal C-store Employee
We’ve spoken with a lot of our goEBT merchants via surveys and focus groups in an attempt to learn as much about the convenience and small grocery industry, and their unique businesses in particular. We know that for the store owners and operators of these small stores, life is filled with the challenges and pressure […]
Seasons Change, Your Store Should Too
Seasonality is not only an opportunity to capitalize on different variations of products, but a chance to remind your customers that you’re paying attention to what they need and want. A changing season is a great time to shift your store strategy and keep traffic and sales booming throughout the year. As the temperature begins […]
A Quick 2016 Trend Update
We always keep our eyes and ears open for what’s next and what’s important in the convenience and small grocery store industry. We also enjoy sharing this information with the store owners and operators that need it. Of course, what may be most helpful to you and your business might be different from what is important to […]
Maximizing In-Store Sales: Strategies for Gas Station Owners
Pay-at-the-pump technology was a game changer for the gas station and convenience store industry. Because of this advancement, today’s average fuel consumer only has to spend about five minutes filling their tank and paying at the pump, and never has to wait in a line or walk into a building. While this technology has enhanced […]
Healthy Customers, Healthy Profits
For decades, store owners in the convenience and small grocery store industry have been primarily focused on meeting the needs of the customer on-the-go. In years past, this customer has sought out the usual bag of chips, candy bars, bottled soda, or even quick-serve hot foods like hot dogs or pizza. Over time, the convenience […]
School’s In! Is Your Store Ready?
As the year passes by, seasons and holidays continue to pass and the habits of consumers continue to evolve. Convenience stores have a unique advantage when it comes to optimizing for the various times of year and altering their store and strategy as needed. As the place where many consumers stop in a hurry or […]
Are Your Customers Loyal or Just Close?
Are your customers pulled to be loyal to your store beyond physical convenience? One problem goEBT customers have described is the difficulty of gaining new loyal customers, besides the ones that live nearby. One goEBT customer said, “Most of my customers are people who live within 100 feet of my store, the rest only come […]
Investing In Signage To Boost Profits
In your typical C-Store or small grocery store, every item on every shelf has an image and writing on it and the same goes for everything on your walls and windows. With all that visual “white noise” consumers report noticing virtually no signage in a typical c-store or small grocery (1). So if customers report […]
Mobile Payments in the Convenience and Small Grocery Store
You’ve probably found that the way in which people shop, including the way they pay, has evolved a great deal over the last decade. Likewise, it’s no secret that mobile devices have changed the way we do almost everything in our lives. You can order food on your phone, change the TV channel with your […]
Daypart Sales and Your Convenience Store
One key factor in maximizing your sales is paying close attention to the trends in your sales as the day goes on. In the c-store industry, the different times of the day have long been referred to as “dayparts” and they have been the cornerstone upon which many stores have built their sales and marketing […]
Boost Sales and Build Loyalty with Store Events
As an entrepreneur, your goal is to see your business thrive and of course to make more money. One of the key ways to boost sales, is to increase foot traffic inside your store. When you increase the visits to your store, you also have the opportunity to increase the number of customers who are […]
Keep Satisfying Your Customers’ Cravings!
As the year 2016 has continued on, we’ve seen a number of changes to the convenience and grocery industry. From the use of the new “chip card” technology to the growing popularity of grab-and-go meals and foodservice, the convenience store as we knew it before is pretty different. One thing that has remained and probably […]
Easy Ways to Enhance Your Convenience or Grocery Store
As a small store owner, it can often seem like you’re in a deadlock when wanting to add to your store and build your business. Obstacles often present themselves in a number of ways. We’ve heard from merchants that site property limitations, small budgets, legal hurdles, security concerns, and even staffing struggles as some of […]
Understanding Millennials: The Key to Growing Your Business
In the past few years, millennials, their habits, and their influence on the world have become hot topics. The term “millennial” has become a way for the earlier generations to stereotype their younger counterparts and almost an ongoing joke about the behaviors of 20-somethings today. Although the prevalent narcissism and entitlement in the millennial generation, […]
Creating the Ideal C-Store Experience
If you’re the owner of a grocery or convenience store, having loyal customers is probably a priority of yours. If not, it should be. When you have customers that value your business and actually prefer to spend their money at your store, your overall success is much more likely. The more loyal customers you have, […]
Maximizing Your Business Card Processing Costs: A Comprehensive Guide
Hardworking entrepreneurs rely on the vendors they use for various services, including payment processing, to provide the quality service they need to continue building a successful business. In today’s world, businesses rely heavily on electronic payments to process their daily transactions and make money. When you are the owner and operator of a small business, […]
ATMs: A Great Store Addition
Even as electronic payment processing continues to evolve with the use of cards, and now even contactless payments, cash transactions are still very important. As cash continues to be a need for consumers, ATMs remain an important piece of technology as well. Businesses can benefit a great deal from having an ATM inside their own […]
How Accepting SNAP Benefits Builds Business
Food Stamps are provided by the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP (a program provided by the USDA), to help people in need purchase groceries for their household. Many people only view SNAP as a way to provide help to members of the community in need, but business owners do not often realize that SNAP […]