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.
Farmers Market Payments Made Easy: A Guide for Vendors
Farmers markets do not come with a fixed checkout counter, a wired terminal, or a reliable outlet nearby. Vendors set up under a tent, break down at the end of the day, and do it all again at the next market across town. That kind of setup calls for payment equipment built for mobility, not a system borrowed from a storefront. It also means thinking through how to accept SNAP benefits, since a growing number of farmers market shoppers pay with an EBT card alongside cash and cards.
The Best Clover POS Systems for Salons, Spas, and Practices
Salons, spas, and medical or wellness practices run on appointments, not just walk-in sales. Checkout must keep up with that rhythm, whether it happens at a stylist’s chair, an esthetician’s treatment room, or a front desk juggling a full book of patients. A basic card reader can process a payment, but it cannot manage bookings, track retail inventory, or give owners a real-time view of how the business is performing.
Accepting EBT at Your Butcher Shop: The Complete Guide to SNAP Authorization and Payments
Butcher shop EBT acceptance is one of the most overlooked revenue opportunities in specialty retail. Tens of millions of Americans rely on SNAP benefits and are actively looking for quality local meat, yet most independent butcher shops and meat markets still do not accept EBT. The barrier is rarely eligibility; most shops already carry the inventory needed to qualify for SNAP authorization. What has held many back is the lack of a payment system built for how a butcher counter operates. CHEXIT POS by CDE changes that. It is an all-in-one platform purpose-built to handle butcher shop EBT, scale-integrated pricing, dual pricing, and split-tender checkout at the counter. This guide covers everything you need to get authorized and get the most out of every transaction.
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.
Boosting Communities Through Restaurant Meal Programs and EBT Acceptance
Accepting EBT through the Restaurant Meal Programs opens the door for businesses to serve more customers while supporting essential community needs. As more individuals rely on SNAP benefits for groceries and everyday essentials, retailers who offer EBT gain a competitive advantage and build stronger customer trust. With the right tools and support, adding EBT to your […]
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 Apply for a Restaurant Meal Program
Understanding how to apply for a Restaurant Meal Program (RMP) can feel overwhelming, but the benefits make it worth the effort. The RMP allows eligible restaurants to accept EBT for hot meals, creating new opportunities to serve your communities. With the right steps, your restaurant can join and make a lasting effort.
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.
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 […]
What Is Demand Forecasting? How Small Retailers Can Predict and Prepare for Demand
What is Demand forecasting? Demand forecasting helps small retailers predict what customers will buy and when. By using data, you can avoid stockouts, reduce waste, and prepare for seasonal trends. Learn how forecasting tools can optimize your inventory and boost your store’s success.
Boost Margins with Value-Added Services: Smart Strategies for Grocery Retailers
Skimming has become a serious problem, and new security-compliant EBT chip cards are essential to combat it.
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 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 […]
How Grocers Are Innovating in the Face of Challenges
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 within the constraints of tight […]
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.
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 […]
Strengthening Grocery Revenue: Strategies to Thrive in Challenging Times
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 that can help grocers increase […]
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 […]
The Promising Growth of U.S. Grocery Retail
The landscape of grocery retail in the United States has been evolving rapidly, driven by changing consumer preferences, technological advancements, and shifting market dynamics. According to a recent report published by Supermarket News, the US grocery retail industry is poised for steady growth, with a projected annual increase of 6%. Learn the key findings of […]
Grocery Store Outlook: Summarizing Progressive Grocer’s Industry Report
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. The report sheds light on […]
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. […]
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 Customers Prefer the In-Store Experience?
Grocery stores, convenience stores, and bodegas are often frequented by in-store shoppers over an online environment, even with more consumers shopping online in other categories. A recent Grocery Store Dive article broke down in-store shopping statistics by generation and found that…
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…
3 Ways QSRs, Grocers, and C-stores Can Focus on Sustainability
Quick-service restaurants, grocers, convenience stores, and other specialty retailers are expected to focus on sustainability and food traceability this year. Consumers now care more about their food, where it’s from, and how it is made, and more according to C-Store News. Here are 3 things to know to keep up with this trend in your […]
How to Market Your QSR to Increase Foot Traffic
Marketing your QSR may be easier than you think. Taking advantage of simple marketing tactics can be helpful for all kinds of retailers, but here are some tips for how to market your QSR to increase foot traffic…
Shoplifting 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.
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 […]
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!
Retail Trends for C-Stores and Grocers This Fall
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.
5 Ways Retailers Can Avoid Inventory Shortages
Retailers are facing supply chain issues that can lead to food inventory shortages. Amidst many other issues like rising costs and labor shortages, low inventory is the last thing retailers want to deal with. Thankfully, there are ways to prevent this, according to Marketman…
Combat Inflation at Your Retail Store in 4 Ways
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 from American Express.
5 Benefits of Technology for Retail Stores: A Game-Changer for Business Success
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 that it has made our […]
5 Ways to Combat Labor Shortage in Retail: A Guide for Store Owners
Labor shortage is just one of the many impacts the pandemic has had on our economy. In 2021, 47 million workers resigned from their jobs to find more flexible workplaces. The pandemic seemed to make more workers realize they value work-life balance above all else, and they won’t settle for less than what they want. […]
Ultimate Guide: Applying to Accept SNAP as a Retailer
Are you a store owner looking for a quick snapshot of the retailer application for SNAP? Our free EBT resources are exactly what you need if you are interested in applying to accept SNAP! Before you get started on the application take our SNAP retailer quiz to see if you qualify.
SNAP Recipients | Know Your SNAP Customers
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 to home than you think, […]
SNAP benefits increased by over 25 percent in USDA’s Thrifty Food Plan
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.
The Importance of Maintaining Great Business Credit
According to the Small Business Administration, the second leading cause of business failure is insufficient or delayed financial support. In many cases, this is brought about by a poor business credit score. If you are unaware, a business’ credit score is similar to a personal credit score. A person’s credit can be improved by paying loans […]
How the new Families First Coronavirus Response Act can support the health of your business
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 the SNAP/EBT government benefits program.
Sales are High but Profits are Low, What Should You Do?
Issues with high sales and low profits usually relate back to your store’s product margins. Margins refer to the amount you spend on a good versus how much you sell it for. Simply put, when you subtract your cost of a good from the amount that you sold it for, the remaining amount is the margin. […]
What Does “Omnichannel” Mean and How It Is Impacting Retail?
As a business, it is crucial to have a plan for how you reach your audience and how immersive you make the experience. People generally think in a way of promoting their business on individual channels i.e. Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and many others. With each of these multi-channeled approaches, it is very hard to attract […]
Should You Accept Bitcoin in Your Small Business?
If you watch or read the news fairly regularly, you’ve probably heard talk of something called “Bitcoin”. Bitcoin is a cryptocurrency, which allows for payments between two parties without the need for a third party or banking institution to complete a transfer of funds. This means that digital exchanges carry no hidden fees from institutions […]
Should You Be Worried About Amazon-Go C-Stores?
Amazon continues its “new” venture by implementing one of its C-Stores in the city of Chicago. The store is beginning to gain traction and becoming a huge hit with people living in a city. Now for the business owners located in Chicago, it may be best to innovate your location or look for places outside […]
Small Business Challenge: Payroll and Vendor Payments
Nearly 1/3 of small businesses struggle to pay vendors, bank loans, and their staff. The issue is usually not a result of low sales, rather, an issue in payment processing. For some businesses, it takes up to a month for banks to process each payment. With some payment processing solutions, banks will charge YOU, the […]
Keys to Succeeding in Every Geography Type:
One of the most important parts of starting or owning a business is making sure there is a market for your products. Depending on your business type, where you decide to set up shop can make or break your business before it even starts. Since many of you have already planted your roots than this can […]
Take Care of Your Community, and They’ll Take Care of You
Customer loyalty is not just built in your store. There is no doubt that having a good relationship with your customers is important, but showing you care for the community outside of your business is vital. Being active in the community where your business is located can make a world of a difference when it comes […]
Preparing Your Business For The Summer Rush
The first day of Summer is on the horizon, but what have you done to get ready for increased sales? Depending on where you are located summer can either be great for business or not at all. No matter which side you may fall on, you need to be prepared to keep your business profitable or […]
October 2020 is Coming Up, Prepare Your Business For New Mandates.
Payment Securities are at the forefront of business needs. Banks are constantly updating and improving their technologies to keep their customers safe and reduce liability. EMV chips were mandated in the U.S. nearly 4-years ago for in-store purchases. Businesses had to adapt to this “new” form of payment or accept full-responsibility if a customer’s information […]
Why It Might Be Smart For You to Incorporate Your Business
TravelCenters (TA) of America has begun to incorporate their rest locations and restaurants in 43 states on May 23rd. After a meeting between board members, the company elected to go public and liquidate what it had in assets into stocks to be openly traded on the market. Now, you may be wondering what this has […]
Top Growing C-Store Chains in 2019
The old saying goes, “If something isn’t broken then don’t fix it”. For some of these big C-store chains, it would seem that they figured out the proper way to grow a business and haven’t looked back. So, what should you do as a start-up or a relatively new C-store? Well, copy it. These businesses […]
Credit Card Fraud and Scams, Can you still be effected in 2019?
Nearly 221 billion dollars are lost each year due to credit card fraud and scams around the world. Financial institutions take steps to prevent these incidents from happening, yet, some scammers seem to slip through the cracks. Here are some tips to protect your business from credit card scams.
Top 5 Must-Read Blogs for Small Business Owners
If you have been reading our goEBT blog articles, you know that we try our hardest to feature information that covers all the most important topics for small business owners, especially those in the food retail space and those that accept SNAP EBT benefits. While we’re always keeping our eyes and ears out for what […]
Ready to Grow? 5 Things to Consider
Many small business owners hope to continue expanding their business to make more money. While growing your business and opening additional locations may seem like an easy way to increase profits, taking on the responsibility of yet another business location is nothing to take lightly. If you’re considering this major step for your business, there […]
Technology Focus: Payment Processing & Transactions
As a follow up to our last article about the importance of keeping up with the latest and greatest technology in your business, we’d like to use this article to talk about payment technology specifically. Because payments are the only way that your business will be able to make money, it is extremely important that […]
Why Technology is a MUST for Your Small Business
Because owning and operating a small business usually means trying to learn and do most things on your own, many store owners in the convenience and grocery industry try to keep the number of new things they try low. However, this has proven to be a bad strategy when store owners are trying to keep […]
The Cannabis Discussion: 5 Things You Need to Know
You may have heard about the exciting opportunities being created by the legalization of marijuana and marijuana products throughout the country. You may have also heard about the unique opportunities for success that many c-store owners are eager to take advantage of. However, as you are considering venturing into the world of marijuana product sales, […]
How the C-Store Owner Can Compete with Online Retailers
We’ve all heard it before, “everything is going online”. For store owners running business that relies on a physical store-front, this retail evolution can seem scary. While the online world still can’t compete with the convenience that c-stores and local groceries provide, it’s still important for store owners to keep up with the ecommerce trend. […]
Fighting Shoplifting in Your C-Store
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 business and should be enough […]