News Archives
Feb 20, 2026
Kwik Trip Launches Fueling Fandom Sweepstakes
Plus, the retailer has opened four new stores in Iowa so far in 2026.
Twice Daily Honored at Local Hospital
The Twice Daily Café located in a Nashville hospital ‘honors the retailer’s commitment to pediatric healthcare.’
Dunkin’ Hosts Quirky Merch Giveaways
Plus, Starbucks said Valentine’s Day 2026 was the ‘highest single day of cake pop sales in Starbucks history.’
Supreme Court Strikes Down Trump Tariffs
The 6-3 decision centers on the tariffs Trump imposed under an emergency powers law.
Job Growth Was Overstated in 2025, but 2026 Has Strong Start
2025 had the biggest benchmark revision since 2009 in percentage terms, but January shows promise for 2026.
Snack Brands Focus on Portions and Convenience
The Uncrustables portfolio becomes fridge friendly; while Jack Link’s emphasizes value.
Feb 19, 2026
7-Eleven Goes Bananas With New Slurpee Flavor
The Brr-Nana Slurpee will be available all year.
Keurig Dr Pepper Launches Dirty Soda-Inspired Drinks
Dr Pepper Creamy Coconut is one of 35 new drink varieties the company introduced.
Walmart’s Grocery Section Draws in Shoppers
The retailer attributed sales growth to grocery as price conscious consumers gravitate towards the brand.
Half of Gen Alpha Visits a QSR Weekly
New research from Datassential found that Gen Alpha also already has ‘strong brand preferences.’
Feb 18, 2026
Ridi Stores Buys McIntosh Energy, Enters Indiana
The Ohio-based company acquired four convenience stores and a standalone fleet fueling site from McIntosh Energy Co.
TA Express Adds to Nevada Footprint
Plus, Love’s and Sheetz open new stores.
NACS Day on the Hill: Advocacy Is Telling Your Story
A first-time attendee shares her experience advocating for the convenience industry on Capitol Hill.
Molson Coors Expands Topo Chico Margarita Line
Plus, Surfside unveiled new flavors, and Nutrl is the official hard seltzer sponsor of the FIFA World Cup.
Wills Group Distributed $1.2 Million in Grants in 2025
Plus, Wawa, Love’s and more also gave back to local communities.
Feb 17, 2026
Wawa Rolls Out $5 Chicken Sandwiches
The deal applies to all crispy and roasted chicken sandwiches through March 22.
Citizens Financial to Acquire Matrix Capital Markets Group
Matrix will operate as a division of Citizens JMP Securities upon closing.
Tips for a Winning Bakery Program
Some strategies include baking-in-house, commissary and third-party programs.
Weigel’s Supports Local Veteran With Service Dog
The retailer is a long-term supporter of Smoky Mountain Service Dogs.
Feb 16, 2026
The Fight to Keep Hemp-Derived THC in C-Stores Continues
The stakes are high ahead of a looming THC ban, and industry engagement is critical to save the category.
EPA Rescinds Greenhouse Gas Emission Standards
Automakers will no longer be subject to strict tailpipe rules that functioned as EV mandate.
Foodservice Starts With Food Safety
Join your peers April 13-14 in Schaumburg, Illinois, for the 2026 NACS Food Safety Forum.
PMI Debuts IQOS Gold in Pop-Up Markets
The limited-edition heated tobacco device launches as the smoke-free nicotine category continues to gain market share.
Feb 13, 2026
Love’s Opens First New Store of 2026
Plus, Mirabito, Minuteman Food Mart, Pilot and more also recently opened new locations.
McDonald’s Value Strategy Push Pays Off
Lower prices and promotions are starting to draw lower-income consumers back to the QSR.
Weigel’s Curates New Audio Programming On In-Store Radio
The company partnered with My InStore Radio to enhance its retail media strategy.
Butterfinger Brings Breakfast Flavors Into Its Lineup
Meanwhile, Tic Tac and Dr Pepper partnered for an LTO treat.
NACS Foundation Launches ‘Convenience Has Heart’ Campaign
The campaign was unveiled at the NACS Leadership Forum in Miami; the Foundation presented checks to two local nonprofits.
Feb 12, 2026
Couche-Tard Outlines Foodservice Growth Plan
The company will also add 750 stores to its network over the next five years.
House Blocks Tariffs on Canada in Breakthrough Vote
The resolution may not become law but signals a shift in Washington, D.C.
Sheetz Raises Over $2 Million for Kids in 2025
Plus, Toot'n Totum announces the winner of its Spirit Pump Program.
Kraft Heinz Pauses Breakup
New CEO Steve Cahillane unveils plan to return the business to profitable growth.
Building Momentum: NACS Foundation’s Record Year of Impact
From the inaugural First Responder of the Year Award to saving over 120,000 pounds of food, the NACS Foundation had a successful 2025.
Feb 11, 2026
Court Rules in Favor of Illinois Ban on Swipe Fees on Taxes and Tips
NACS continues to push to reform swipe fees at the state and federal level.
7-Eleven Restaurants Launch $5 Chicken Deals
The brand also introduced a ‘tangy’ new lemon pepper chicken glaze.
Rutter’s Rolls Out Grilled Cheese Menu
The menu features eight various options, one of which was created by a Rutter’s team member.
Coca-Cola to Focus on Product Innovation in 2026
The company said it is focused on providing a range of products at different prices and sizes.
InStore.ai to Deploy Across SAASOA Network
The partnership brings AI-driven voice insights to 5,200+ c-stores.
Against All Obstacles, This C-Store Found Success
Skeptics saw no possibility of c-store success in a small town, but Mikey Stutes’ store is now a community staple.
Feb 10, 2026
Sunoco Acquires 56 C-Stores
The company purchased North Carolina-based Jernigan Oil Company.
How to Make the Most of Advocacy During an Election Year
Make your voice heard at the NACS Day on the Hill March 17-18 in Washington, D.C.
The C-Store Industry Celebrates First Responders
On 24/7 Day in July, celebrate your hometown heroes with gestures small and large.
QSRs Launch More Valentine’s Menu Items
Dutch Bros released new pink-colored drinks; Krispy Kreme and Chick-fil-A focus on heart-shaped items.
Valentine’s Day Procrastination: Day of Delivery Trends
Instacart and DoorDash reveal the top purchases made on February 14, 2025.
Feb 9, 2026
NACS Industry Update Tour Offers Exclusive Market Deep Dive
The 2026 series will feature NACS President and CEO Frank Gleeson.
Cenex Unveils New Brand Campaign
The multi-channel campaign features ‘Ruby,’ who ‘embodies the optimistic spirit of Cenex.’
Setting Employees Up for Success
Meet a Stinker Stores employee who strives to put his people first.
NRF: Affluent Households Continue to Propel Economy
A ‘K-shaped’ economy offers opportunities and challenges for retailers.
RBI Brand QSRs See Mixed Traffic Results
Tim Hortons saw decreased foot traffic year over year while Burger King reported a slight increase.
Feb 6, 2026
RaceTrac to ‘Transform and Enhance’ Loyalty App
The retailer tapped Capillary Technologies to deliver ‘more personalized experiences’ for its guests.
Arko Opens Second NTI Store With New Food Concept
Plus, Sheetz has 14 new locations planned for Michigan; 7-Eleven opens a new airport store.
How To Expand Your Community Impact With NACS 24/7 Day
A recent NACS webinar discussed what’s new for 2026 and how participating retailers can strengthen community connections.
Snack Brands Launch Super Bowl Campaigns
Pringles and Ritz Crackers both have ads airing during Sunday’s big game.
Chipotle Reports Strong Fourth Quarter
The growth was driven by new locations, however, same-store sales declined.
Feb 5, 2026
Love’s Maps Out 2026 Growth Plans
The company will roll out a new loyalty program, remodel 35 stores, add 100 EV chargers and enhance its foodservice offering.
3 Hidden Costs of Idle Cash
Cash sitting in a safe could be eating into retail profits.
Murphy USA Opened 29 New Locations Last Quarter
The retailer said it also has 18 locations currently under construction.
As C-Store Foodservice Grows, So Does Food Safety
The industry has a shared responsibility to deliver safe food to our customers and protect public health.
Hershey Expands Jolly Rancher Gummies Lineup
The brand is launching new ‘swicy’ Jolly Rancher Heat Wave Gummies and a fruity Easter assortment.
Taco Bell Sees Sustained Visit Increases
Research firm Placer.ai reported that year-over-year monthly visits and same-store visits grew in Q4 2025.
Feb 4, 2026
NACS Raises Concern Over 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit
NACS urges Congress to support simpler biofuel policies and bring back the Biodiesel Tax Credit.
Is Cash Management Interrupting Your Business?
Your cash management process could be one of your biggest operational inefficiencies.
RaceTrac Rolls Out New Hot Honey Breakfast LTO
The Hot Honey Chicken and Waffle sandwich is a twist on a popular menu item.
Sprint Mart Introduces Professional Driver Loyalty Program
The program ‘offers a personalized loyalty card with perks that benefit drivers directly.’
PepsiCo Focuses on Value With New Price Reductions
The company promises to lower prices by up to 15%.
Feb 3, 2026
Arko Completes Initial Public Offering of Arko Petroleum Subsidiary
The retailer said total net proceeds from the offering were approximately $183.2 million.
Linda Toth Named Executive Director of Conexxus
Toth will succeed Gray Taylor beginning April 1.
Spinx Switches to AI POS System
Tote.ai will provide the retailer with point-of-sale, self-service kiosks and foodservice technology across all its locations.
7-Eleven Launches Valentine’s Day Deals
From delivery deals to chocolate discounts, the retailer is celebrating the season of love.
Onvo Kicks Off Fundraiser for NATSO Foundation
The retailer is encouraging store participation by running a friendly competition between locations.
VenHub Debuts on Nasdaq Global Market
The company will ring the Nasdaq opening bell on February 4 to celebrate.
Feb 2, 2026
TravelCenters of America Expands Anti-Trafficking Training
TA said the initiative ‘focuses on education and awareness at sites in high traffic areas of the country.’
Mountain Dew Launches New Permanent Flavor
Plus, Bud Light and Michelob Ultra will be airing star-studded commercials during the Super Bowl.
NRF: Valentine’s Day Spending Expected to Reach Record High
Candy remains the most popular Valentine’s Day gift.
SNAP Restrictions Raise Implementation Questions
USDA’s previously released guidance does not clarify the definition of ‘candy’ or ‘soda.’
Jan 30, 2026
7-Eleven Serves Up Game Day Deals For the Super Bowl
The retailer is also offering discounts for National Pizza Day.
Campbell Oil Acquires Smith Oil Company
The company said the acquisition strengthens its presence in southeastern North Carolina.
Key Metrics for a C-Store Employee Retention Strategy
Companies with lower turnover typically invest more in wages and benefits.
Datassential: Hot Honey is More Than a Flavor Trend
The flavor has become ‘less niche’ and instead ‘signals a structural shift in how Americans want flavor.’
WSJ: Companies Cut Jobs, Reversing Pandemic Hiring Boom
Large companies like Amazon and UPS continue to cut thousands of jobs.
7-Eleven Raised Over $14 Million for Children’s Hospitals
Plus, Rutter's made $1.75 million in charitable contributions in 2025; Wesco donated more than $320,000 to local food pantries.
Jan 29, 2026
How 7-Eleven Empowers Store Teams With AI
The convenience retailer invested in a solution to help employees make faster and more informed decisions.
DoorDash: Here’s What Fans Will Order for the Super Bowl
The company said that over 639,000 wing orders were placed last year.
Candy Brands Make a Sports Marketing Play
Hershey is releasing chocolate medals; Ferrara’s Nerds will have a Big Game commercial.
Starbucks Leans Into Tropical Coconut and Ube-Flavored Drinks
Plus, Dunkin’ and Stewart’s Shops have released Valentine’s Day-themed drinks.
Pilot Launches Annual Heart Month Campaign
For the first time, guests can donate directly in app when placing a mobile order.
Jan 28, 2026
Rutter’s Launches Spam Dog
The new menu item is part of the retailer’s partnership with Hormel Food Corporation.
Pilot Partners With Tesla for Semi Truck Charger Network
The retailer has plans to open the first chargers in summer 2026.
7-Eleven Showcases ‘Brands With Heart’
The retailer named 26 emerging brands that will be invited to launch in-store tests.
Starbucks Reports Record Sales to Close Out 2025
The QSR’s revenue increased 6% to $9.9 billion, a ‘bigger jump than analysts had forecast.’
Jan 27, 2026
Wawa Continues Pennsylvania Expansion Plan
Plus, Sheetz, ExtraMile and others recently celebrated grand openings.
Stinker Stores Launches Revamped Loyalty Program
The retailer said the upgraded program introduces targeted click-to-activate offers.
BP Rolls Out CPG Digital Coupon Program
Consumers can discover, clip and redeem digital offers on the Earnify app.
Learn From Experts at NACS Convenience Summit Asia
Early bird registration pricing for the Shanghai, China, event closes this Saturday, January 31.
NYT: Consumers Seek Out THC Beverages for Dry January
The THC beverage market is expected to reach ‘around $4 billion by 2028.’
Convenience Industry Teams Up to Fight Human Trafficking
NACS and BP to help raise awareness before the Big Game.
Amazon to Close Amazon Fresh and Amazon Go Locations
Some locations will be converted into a Whole Foods Market; Amazon also announced it is laying off 16,000 workers.
Jan 26, 2026
Weigel’s Introduces Trivia Feature in Its App
The retailer’s history and its NIL partnerships both are spotlighted in the questions.
Bill to Regulate Hemp-Derived Products Introduced in Congress
The bipartisan legislation would set a regulatory framework for intoxicating hemp beverages and CBD products.
2026 Sees Slight Decrease in C-Store Count
The 2026 NACS/NIQ TDLinx official store count reported 151,975 c-stores in U.S.
RaceTrac Offers Free Drinks to Responders During Snowstorm
Plus, the retailer designated a pump at all stores as a priority fuel lane responders.
Federal Judge Rules NEVI was Unlawfully Suspended
The ruling ‘bars the Transportation Department from taking away the states’ funds.’
Jan 23, 2026
Yesway Unveils ‘The Big Fill Sweepstakes’
One grand prize winner will win free fuel for a year.
ExtraMile Launches Alcohol Cashback Program
Consumers at over 1,100 stores will get digital cashback through its partnership with Swiftly.
How You Can Honor Everyday Heroes On 24/7 Day
Join NACS for a webinar on January 27 to learn more about the annual event.
Numerator: 46% of Dry January Participants Return to Drinking Alcohol
Research explored consumers’ motivations for cutting out alcohol, including health and finances.
Consumer Spending, Economy Grew in Q3 2025
But consumer prices also grew, and many Americans are dissatisfied with the economy.