This summer, the NACS Government Relations team is strengthening connections between convenience retailers and members of Congress through the NACS In Store program. This initiative provides legislators with a firsthand look at how the convenience and fuel retailing industry serves their local communities.

During NACS In Store events, members of Congress hear directly from retailers and store employees about the issues that affect their business. The visit also allows for engagement with local community members who rely on the essential services the retail industry provides.

In addition to meeting with constituents, members of Congress can fully dive into convenience store operations, tour the store and see what a day in the life at a c-store looks like—many often work behind the counter for part of the visit. These hands-on experiences help legislators understand how decisions in Washington, D.C. impact the businesses and individuals they represent back home.

Recently, Ralphie's Minnoco in Clear Lake, Minnesota, hosted House Majority Whip Tom Emmer (MN-06). While staff provided the Congressman with a tour of the store, store owner Brian Brehmer shared his concerns around rising credit card swipe fees (his second highest operating cost) with the Congressman.

Congressman Jeff Crank (CO-05) stopped by a Maverik store in Colorado Springs, Colorado. The Congressman received an exclusive tour of the kitchen, where he was able to shadow the store team and even got behind the counter to make a burrito—getting a true feel for daily operations.

During another visit at a Wawa store in Wilmington, Delaware, Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester engaged with store management, associates and customers, gaining valuable firsthand insights into how the industry is supporting and serving the local community.

The NACS In Store program is a powerful way to showcase the essential role our industry plays in our communities. If you’re interested in hosting a NACS In Store, reach out to Esmeralda Orozco at eorozco@convenience.org.