Holiday In-Store Payment Fraud: How Small Merchants Can Protect Every Sale This Season
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.
One Terminal, No Clutter: The Case for a Single Terminal for EBT and Credit Cards
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.
Meet CHEXIT AI POS: The Smart, Affordable Way to Run Your Bodega
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.
Health Benefit Cards: A Retailer’s Guide to Getting Started
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.
SNAP Retailer Authorization: How to Apply to Accept EBT at Your Store
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.
EBT and Credit Card Payments: Fees, Compliance, and What Retailers Need to Know
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: What’s Driving Growth Today
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.
All-In-One POS System vs Standalone Terminal: Which Is Best for Your Business?
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.
How Payment Processing Fees Affect Small Business Profit Margins
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.
The Best POS System for Small Stores in 2026
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.
New SNAP Restrictions: Keys to Success in 2026
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 system, staff training, and overall […]
Avoid These Common Retail Mistakes in 2026 That Cost Small Retailers Time and Money
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 prepared for growth.
One Platform, Many Ways to Win: POS Integration for Busy Retailers
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.
Retail Weighing Scales 101: Everything You Need to Know If You Sell by Weight
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 people know they’re getting what […]
Winning Customer Loyalty in a Crowded Retail Market
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 into devoted regulars who keep coming back.
How a Smart POS System Can Help Your Business Accept SNAP/EBT and More
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 customers, encourages repeat visits, streamlines […]
EBT Retailer Application: Discover Your Instant SNAP Eligibility!
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 many think, and the payoff […]
A Point of Sale System and Inventory Tracking That Actually Works
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 with what customers want most.
Retail Store Management Solutions That Help You Accept Every Payment Type
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 shoppers expect.
7 Signs It’s Time to Upgrade to a Modern POS System
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 system ensures you stay ahead […]
How to Increase Sales in a Retail Store: 10 Proven Strategies
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, retailers can strengthen customer relationships […]
How to Open a Grocery Store: A Step-by-Step Guide
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 open a grocery store successfully.
How to Choose the Best Payment Processor for Your Small Business
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 store’s growth.
Why Every Retailer Needs a Retail Inventory Management System
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, all-in-one solution ideal for small […]
C-Store Trends 2025
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.
How to Advertise Your Store Accepts EBT: The Importance of POP
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 your store’s EBT acceptance effectively […]
24 C-Store Trends for 2024
Discover 24 key convenience store industry trends for 2024 in this free guide from goEBT!
Understanding the Price-Conscious Customer
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.
Elevating Foodservice: How C-Stores Are Attracting Customers with Quality Meals
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 improving foodservice to attract customers […]
Convenience Store Count Continues to Rise
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 owners need to understand these […]
How Store Owners Can Take Advantage of the Holiday Travel Surge
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 travelers, many of whom will […]
Adapting to Cooling Inflation: Strategies for Retailers This Holiday Season
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.
Maximizing Holiday Sales: A Guide for Store Owners
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 season…
How Convenience Stores are Becoming the New Neighborhood Hub
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 how convenience stores are evolving […]
Recapping NACS 2023: Innovations, Insights, and Networking Highlights
SNAP Benefits Are Increasing on 10/1 – How You Can Maximize Revenue through EBT Acceptance
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.
How to Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month in Your Store
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 your store. Let’s explore creative […]
Strategic Inventory Planning: When Retailers Should Order Holiday Inventory
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. We know it is only […]
How to Accept EBT Payments at My Business: A Comprehensive Guide
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 payments, you can tap into […]
Ensuring Food Safety in Convenience Stores: Best Practices for a Healthy 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 with the best practices to […]
Revitalize Your Store’s Healthy Food Offering: 3 Data-Driven Strategies
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.
Boost Your Store’s Success: 6 Low-Cost Marketing Tips for Grocers & C-Stores
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 your store to your community […]
Boosting Fuel Sales: The Psychology of Selling to Customers in a Bad Mood
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 about the psychology of selling […]
How Inflation Impacts the Supply Chain
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 chain has faced unprecedented challenges […]
Supporting Social Issues: 5 Ways It Draws More Customers
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 the importance of supporting social […]
The Impact of Litter on Customer Perception: Keeping Your Business Clean + Customer-Friendly
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 how customers perceive your store, […]
Why the Snack Category is King
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 on the rise.
Refresh Your Store’s Foodservice Menu
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 what they’d like to see […]
What Retailers Can Expect This Fourth of July
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 this summer, with an increased […]
Where Do SNAP Customers Shop?
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.
4 Ways to Build Customer Loyalty
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, ultimately generating more foot traffic. […]
Are Soda Fountains Profitable or a Hassle?
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 your time into getting creative […]
C-Stores + Grocers: Preparing for the Memorial Day Rush
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.
3 Ways Retailers Can Combat a Challenging Labor Market
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…
Generational Differences That Impact Shopping Behavior
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…
What Makes Customers Choose C-store Foodservice?
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 customers to choose your store […]
Foodservice Fueling In-store Convenience Sales
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 to NACS, are…
Do You Know Your Customers?
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…
Convenience is Key for Consumers
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 found 6 key facts about […]
Convenience Store Beverages That Will Be Hot Sellers in 2023
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 to ensure their beverage sales […]
Healthy Snacks Your Convenience Store Needs to Stock
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 shelves, according to Men’s Journal…
Coffee Cravings Boost Sales in C-Stores: 3 Tips for Store Owners
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 being a part of the […]
Maximize Your Revenue: Benefits of Accepting EBT at Your Store
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.
Requirements to Accept EBT Payments in Your Store
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 this quick, easy overview of […]
How Your Store’s Restroom Can Impact Business
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, in-store purchases, and even play […]
How to Make Your Baked Goods Inventory Stand Out
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 generally improve your bakery inventory…
Shoplifting Prevention Tips for Your Store
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 to shoplifters, up 26.6% from […]
How EV Charging may Impact the Future of C-stores
C-store Dive summarized a recent Convenience Leaders Vision Group roundtable discussion in which the future of fuel was a hot topic. With federal funding increasing for electric vehicles and sales tripling in 2022, c-store owners are facing new challenges and looking for new ways to address this trend.
C-Stores Shift Focus to Foodservice in 2023
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.
Marketing My Store: Your Guide to Branded Merchandise
Grocers, convenience stores, and other specialty retailers could benefit from selling branded merchandise in-store. Selling branded merchandise can increase brand awareness, bring in new customers, improve customer loyalty, and boost sales.
C-Store Trends: Enhancing Healthy Food Offerings for Consumer Satisfaction
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 70% of Americans are more […]
Enhancing the C-Store Shopping Experience: A Guide for Store Owners
C-stores experienced a 6.2% growth in in-store sales in 2022, a record high according to c-store news’ state of the industry report. This means that store owners should take a look at their in-store shopping experience and ensure that everything is running smoothly.
3 Ways Business Owners Can Overcome a Post-Holidays Sales Slump
For c-store owners, grocers, and other specialty retailer the holidays usually bring in more customers, more sales, and an overall busier store. November and December are often notably busy times of year. C-store owners see an increase in travel which means more people stopping in for fuel or a quick snack and grocers have a […]
4 Ways to Market Your Business to Your Community
Being an independent retailer can come with challenges. It may be more difficult to market your business in your community and stand out against the competition, luckily there are a few easy and inexpensive ways to familiarize local customers with your business.
High Sales with Low Profits, How to Maximize Revenue in Your Store
If your store is experiencing high sales and low profits, you may need to re-evaluate your profit margins. Profit margin measures a retailer’s profit after subtracting cost from how much you sell the item for, if this number is positive then you are making money. As a business owner, you always want to maximize your […]
3 Ways Independent Retailers Can Support SNAP Customers
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.
4 Ways C-stores, Grocers, Specialty Retailers Gear Up for Christmas
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 to NACS.
Become a SNAP Retailer and Fight Hunger this Holiday Season
SNAP retailers are always a vital resource for SNAP recipients, but they are especially important during the holiday season. More than 34 million people, including 9 million children, are food insecure during the United States, according to the USDA. With the holiday season revolving largely around gathering with friends and family to enjoy a meal, […]
USDA’s 3 Thanksgiving Food Safety Tips
USDA’s recent blog shares a few food safety musts that will ensure everyone practices proper food safety this Thanksgiving. Here are 3 important food safety tips to remember according to the USDA…
The Future of C-Store Retail
The c-store retail environment has been seemingly ever-changing over the past few years. A big question many convenience store owners may have is, what does the future of c-store retail really look like?
Grocers, Bodegas, and C-Stores Benefit from More People Cooking
Grocers, c-stores, bodegas, and specialty retailers can benefit from more people cooking at home due to inflation. While consumers are quick to cut back in other areas, food is always going to be a necessity.
C-Store Trends: Importance of Fresh Foods
C-store owners should recognize the importance of having a stable inventory of fresh foods. Convenience has become a non-negotiable expectation for consumers. People want one-stop-shops that are quick, easy, and affordable. Since c-stores are no longer the only business catering to this need, retailers should focus on going beyond convenience and incorporating high quality foodservice […]
SNAP Retailer Tips: Seasonal Produce and SNAP-Ed
SNAP retailers can benefit from knowing what produce is in season. SNAP-Ed emphasizes the added benefits of buying seasonal produce and provides this resource for what produce is in season now.
Support SNAP Customers this Thanksgiving in 3 Simple Ways
Retailers already know how busy the holiday season can become, but with that comes challenges. The holidays can be expensive for Americans, which is a challenge for anyone but especially for SNAP recipients.
3 Ways Retailers Can Prepare for the Holiday Rush
Retailers, it’s already that time of year again! Time to start preparing your retail space and inventory for the upcoming holidays. With Christmas and Thanksgiving being the top 2 most celebrated holidays in the United States, there is no doubt that this time of year makes retailers a lot busier. Along with the joyful holiday […]
C-Store Trends: 5 Food Safety Tips
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 and How You Can Increase Access to Foods
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 and strength. There are many […]
Get Your Store Ready for Halloween Festivities!
Retailers should prepare their stores for Halloween! Whether it’s making sure you’re stocked up on plenty of candy or getting your Halloween themed displays prepped and ready to go, the holiday is quickly approaching so make sure your store is ready to go for the festivities!
Solving the Age-Verification Puzzle: 4 Ways to Ensure Compliance
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 customers happy? Here are 4 […]
TruAge Age Verification Solution: A New Way to ID
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 also protects the user’s privacy. Since […]
5 Ways to Make a Difference During Hunger Action Month
Hunger Action Month happens each year during the month of September and is designed for people to come together to join the fight against hunger. Today marks the first day of September, making today a great time to learn about how you can make a difference. Here are 5 ways to get involved during Hunger […]
4 Ways Retailers Can Prepare for Labor Day Weekend Rush
Retailers, especially grocers and c-stores, can experience a major rush during this holiday weekend as people prepare for cookouts and road trips.
Data Security’s Importance for Retail Stores
Data security is a critical part of any retail store. Convenience store and grocery store computers and POS can hold a variety of personal data–from customer data to employee data and even store owner data–so it is important to make sure that information is kept safe from a data breach.
5 Age-Verification Sales Tips Your Staff Should Learn
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 are 5 things your staff […]
5 Ways Store Owners Can Prepare for an Active Shooter Event
Active shooter situations are increasing. What can grocery store and convenience store owners do to prepare for these terrifying situations? It is no secret that active shooter cases have been on the rise over the last several years, and with the recent grocery store shootings in Colorado, Florida and New York, grocers need to be […]
Don’t make these SNAP retailer mistakes…
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 types of fraud and errors that […]
Building an Eco-Friendly Business by Charging for Bags
Being environmentally friendly is nothing new, and in most markets, it is becoming more important from a business perspective that you attempt to protect the planet. There are a million ways to reduce energy use, recycle or use recycled goods, and eliminate environmentally harmful products from circulation. In today’s blog, we are going to discuss […]
Merchant Snapshot: Knicker Knacker Market
While we have numerous customers scattered across the country with unique qualities, this month’s Merchant Spotlight provides a wide range of products and services for their customers that many others can not match. Knicker Knacker Market and Grocery Store has built a business for anyone that may come walking through their doors, which is why […]
Have You Heard of the NACS In Store Initiative
A large part of gaining favoritism among legislation is bringing these officials to your level as a store owner and showing them how valuable your business is. In recent years, the value that C-stores provide to their community was lost in the eyes of legislators. Laws did not exist to protect the C-store industry from […]
NACS is Working to Protect the Convenience Industry in Data Breaches
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 and business owners when they […]