News Archives
Sep 16, 2025
How Did the One Big Beautiful Bill Impact EV Charging?
The latest evVG Vision Report provides insight to navigate the evolving EV charging landscape.
Always Available: Using AI as a C-Store Assistant
Retailers can leverage AI assistants to glean business insights and aid in decision-making.
Retail Spending Grew in August
The National Retail Federation reported total retail sales were up 0.5% seasonally adjusted month over month.
From Customer to Known Neighborhood Face
Josie Johnson was a regular customer at 36 Lyn Refuel Station in Minneapolis before she became the store’s manager.
Popeyes Rolls Out Hot Ones Collab Menu
While Subway, Taco Bell and Chipotle bring back former menu items.
Sep 15, 2025
Loop Neighborhood Market Debuts Spam Musubi
The California-based retailer said the snack is available in regular and spicy varieties.
NACS Sends Letter Opposing FDA Proposal on Reduced Nicotine
NACS believes FDA has failed to take into account the effect the proposal will have in fueling the illicit tobacco trade.
How Did Foodservice Commissary Sales Fare in 2024?
Manufacturers still see ample opportunity even as commissary loses some share of foodservice.
Chicken and Mexican QSR Chains See Growth
Research firm Placer.ai found that consumers want ‘more affordable, customizable and protein-forward options.’
What Does the Future of Lottery Look Like?
New integrations with POS systems can provide c-stores a winning ticket to increase lottery sales.
Sep 12, 2025
Weigel’s Loyalty Campaign Sees ‘Record Participation’
The retailer said more than 36,000 new registered users signed up during the campaign.
Vroom Delivery and Instacart Bring Retail Media to C-Stores
Vroom’s retail partners, totaling 3,500 stores, will join Instacart’s Carrot Ads network.
App-Based Coffee Orders Reach Record High
The National Coffee Association also reported drive-thru coffee purchases have increased year over year.
Are You Ready for Sunrise 2027?
It’s time for retailers to prepare for the transition to 2D barcodes.
The Giving Pump Returns at Shell Stations
The charitable pump will be available at nearly 6,500 locations across the country.
Sep 11, 2025
How Successful Has Pumpkin Coffee Been?
Research from Placer.ai found that Utah saw 40% more daily foot traffic in Starbucks on Pumpkin Spice Latte release day.
Improve Operational Efficiency With AI
When retailers invest in the right AI solution early, they can reduce costs through labor optimization.
FDA Completes ‘Largest Seizure Ever’ of Illicit Vapes
The seized products had an estimated retail value of $86.5 million.
Chester’s Chicken Debuts Bone-In Wings
The wings are ‘lightly-breaded’ and available with or without sauce.
EG America Donates Over $500,000 to American Cancer Society
The donation was part of an in-store fundraiser in July.
Sep 10, 2025
RaceTrac’s Purchase of Potbelly Addresses Growing Trends
The acquisition underscores the growth of foodservice and c-stores becoming neighborhood hangouts.
Terrible’s Rolls Out New App Experience
The retailer is focused on bringing the ‘fun and excitement of Las Vegas to the palm of your hand.’
NACS Raises Concerns Over State SNAP Waivers
In a letter to lawmakers, NACS cautions that new state waivers risk reducing access and creating costly compliance challenges for retailers.
Pilot EV Charging Expansion Hits Milestone
The retailer now has sites in almost 40 states.
We Card Celebrates 30 Years
The program is ‘designed to meet the evolving challenges retailers face’ with age-verified purchases.
7-Eleven Launches Game Day Offers and Specials
Deals include discounted beers, BOGO pizzas and more.
Sep 9, 2025
Casey’s Sees Strong Growth in Q1
The retailer reported net income was up 19.5% year over year.
Drive Better Customer Engagement Through AI
Retailers can use AI to predict customer behavior and build connections through personalized recommendations.
FDA to Fast-Track Nicotine Pouch Approval
The pilot program will review four tobacco firms' nicotine pouches.
Circle K Partners With Relay Payments
The partnership will bring ‘digital payment solution to more than 500 truck-accessible Circle K locations.’
NACS Urges Congress to Prohibit Additional SNAP Processing Fees
The letter requests that the bipartisan ‘Ensuring Fee-Free Benefit Transactions (EBT) Act’ be enacted in a multi-year Farm Bill.
Maverik Taps Piston for Cardless Payments Platform
Piston's technology will roll out across the entire Maverik network this month.
Sep 8, 2025
Weigel’s Rolls Out National Trucker Appreciation Deals
The retailer is offering ‘exclusive loyalty-based offers, free perks and bonus rewards.’
White Bison Coffee Launches Iced Brown Sugar Spun Espresso
Meanwhile, Royal Farms brought back its pumpkin spice coffee and cappuccino.
Labor Market Shows Signs of Weakening
August saw fewer jobs created than expected and the unemployment rate rose to 4.3%.
Taco Bell Shifts Focus to Chicken and Drinks
Chicken orders now make up 40% of the QSRs orders, up from 25% last year.
Tips to Combat Frontline Turnover
From concise and fun job descriptions to making expectations clear, here are some ideas.
Sep 5, 2025
7-Eleven Launches Bring Your Own Cup Slurpee Promo
Plus, the retailer is rolling out two new Slurpee flavors.
Coast to Coast: Which Region Sold the Most?
The West is known for high fuel volume, while the Northeast offers expansive foodservice programs.
Onvo Rolls Out Penn State ‘Game Day Ritual’
Plus, the retailer has teamed up with four Pennsylvania athletes through a NIL partnership.
Cumberland Farms’ New Campaign Taps New England-Based Creators
Singer Sammy Adams and content creator Kevin Cooney remixed a hit for the retailer.
Love’s Adds to Texas Footprint
Plus, Buc-ee’s is looking to move into Idaho.
Sep 4, 2025
‘Clerks’ Stars Headline 2025 NACS Show Session
Kevin Smith and Jason Mewes will share their take on the convenience store industry.
How To Prepare for Immigration Enforcement Actions
A recent NACS webinar provided guidance on how to respond if federal immigration officers arrive at your workplace.
Minuteman Food Mart Kicks Off Football Special
Plus, the retailer also recently announced a partnership with Reward Cups.
Candy Brands Focus on Texture
Ferrara launches more freeze-dried candy, while Sour Patch Kids ventures into strips.
Casey’s and NFL Player Launch Breakfast Pizza Campaign
Cooper DeJean helped declare Casey’s the ‘Official Pizza of Noon Kickoffs.’
Circle K Launches Flavortown Menu with Guy Fieri
The new menu features a range of ‘off-the-hook’ options.
Sep 3, 2025
Starbucks Gets In on the Protein Craze
The coffee QSR will add protein cold foam and lattes to its menu later this month.
How To Recognize Human Trafficking
Join NACS for a webinar to learn how to identify potential human trafficking situations.
What’s New at Kwik Trip?
From banana milk to Truck Driver Appreciation offers, here’s the latest.
Wawa Partners With Philadelphia Eagles Running Back
The retailer and Saquon Barkley teamed up to create a new hoagie this football season.
Couche-Tard Reports ‘Improved Performance’
ACT reported earnings after closing the GetGo acquisition earlier this summer.
Sep 2, 2025
Weigel’s Launches Knoxville Hot Chicken
The retailer said the chicken gives guests a ‘uniquely local flavor experience.’
Kraft Heinz to Split Into Two Companies
The split comes ten years after Kraft and Heinz merged in 2015.
Pilot Rolls Out Deals for Driver Appreciation Month
Plus, the retailer is giving the 2025 Road Warrior winner a customized Kenworth semi-truck and $50,000 cash.
EG America Unveils Fall Menu
The retailer is offering deals alongside new options like Dubai Hot Chocolate.
Aug 29, 2025
Wawa to Open Two More Travel Centers
Also, Kwik Trip announced it is entering North Dakota and Sheetz opened its 800th location.
How To Successfully Gamify Loyalty
At PDI Connections Live, retailers discussed how consumers expect rewarding and engaging experiences.
BP Launches Axonet Retail Media Network
The partnership ‘reflects an ongoing investment in digital innovations to deliver premier customer experiences.’
Weigel’s Rolls Out LTO Autumn Reserve Milk
The retailer said the drink is ‘a rich, creamy blend of salted caramel, bourbon and butterscotch.’
NACS Urges DOT to Strengthen Final NEVI Guidance
NACS and its cosigners asked the agency to ensure a consistent charging experience.
Aug 28, 2025
McLane Unveils New Tech Hub
The Austin-based hub will ‘support its technology and AI acceleration strategy.’
Lure Customers in With a Food Experience
Cretors’ self-serve popcorn machine helps draw customers inside the store.
Carolina-Based Retailer Opens 64th Store
Wawa, Love’s and EG America are also working on new locations.
Loyalty and AI: Takeaways from PDI Connections Live
Retailers are enhancing loyalty apps with gamification and new ways to redeem offers.
How to Combat Manager Turnover
While retailers reported lower rates in 2024, turnover remains an evergreen issue in convenience retail.
Aug 27, 2025
Sheetz to Open 800th Location
The retailer is offering two free hot dogs with any purchase at all locations to celebrate.
7-Eleven Launches Pumpkin and Apple Coffee
The Autumn LTO coffees come in bottled form, hot and iced.
Strategies for Leveraging Loyalty and Enhancing Engagement
PDI Connections Live focused on app strategies and other tactics for improving loyalty programs.
Rutter’s Unveils Labor Day ‘Fuel Frenzy’
The deal offers registered Rutter’s Rewards members 20 cents off per gallon.
Sweet and Steady: Candy Remains a Top Category in C-Stores
Retailers and marketers alike express optimism that growth will return.
OnCue Honored for Role in Establishing OnCue NICU
The OnCue NICU at Stillwater Medical Center was supported by OnCue’s $1 million donation.
Aug 26, 2025
Buc-ee’s Teams Up With Texas A&M to Sell Snacks on Campus
Texas A&M said it is the only non-Buc-ee’s location to offer Buc-ee’s food and merchandise.
Foodservice Is More Important Than Ever—And So Is the Right Equipment
Products that are simple to use can help alleviate labor constraints.
U.S. Suspends Issuing Work Visas for Commercial Truck Drivers
The move comes amid a reported commercial truck driver shortage of about 60,000 drivers.
Love’s Launches Private Label Fall Candy
Meanwhile, Mars is rolling out Skittles Gummies Fuego, coated in a tangy chili layer.
Walmart Misses Earnings Target
Walmart’s sales are ‘growing rapidly,’ but increased costs offset these gains.
Parker’s Kitchen Supports Wounded Warrior Project
The retailer recently presented a check for $360,000 to the organization.
Aug 25, 2025
Keurig Dr Pepper to Acquire JDE Peet’s for $18 Billion
KDP plans to ‘combine its coffee business with JDE Peet’s and spin it into a new company.’
EPA Acts on Petitions for Small Refinery Exemptions
NACS welcomes anticipated proposal for reallocating exempted volumes.
Where Are Travelers Headed This Labor Day?
AAA reported that Seattle, Orlando and New York are the three most popular destinations.
QSRs Introduce Seasonal Autumn Beverages
Dutch Bros is leaning into caramel and pumpkin, while Taco Bell unveiled the first Baja Blast innovation in two decades.
Mirabito Donates $75,000 to Folds of Honor
The proceeds from the campaign will remain within the communities that Mirabito serves.
Aug 22, 2025
7-Eleven Launches Labor Day Deals
Snack deals, delivery savings and more are part of this year’s promos.
Why Competitive Compensation is the Key to Employee Retention
Turnover for both full and part-time employees exceeded 100% in 2024.
McDonald’s to Lower Combo Meal Prices
The QSR reportedly told restaurant operators that it would subsidize those who lose money on the discounts.
The Spicy Food Trend is Still Hot
Research firm Datassential found that 95% of restaurant menus now feature spicy food options.
Nittany MinitMart Donates $183,000 to Local Firefighters
The annual campaign ran from March through June and surpassed last year’s record total by almost $7,000.
Aug 21, 2025
Jacksons Acquires 24 C-Stores
The 24 Redwood stores and its Aztec Grill proprietary food offering are in Northern California.
Consumers Seek Diverse and Snackable Options
Menu items that cross meal boundaries can draw customers into your store.
C-Stores Rolls Out Back to School Offers
Minuteman Food Mart is offering teachers a free breakfast biscuit, while Circle K is offering 40 cents off per gallon.
What Categories Were Hot in 2024?
NACS data found key categories continue to shift, with foodservice in growth mode.
QuickChek Unveils Fall Sub Lineup
The retailer is also the Official Sub of the New York Giants for a third season.
Sheetz Named to ‘Companies that Care’ List
Plus, Sheetz For the Kidz raised $1 million during its July in-store giving campaign.
Aug 20, 2025
Wawa’s First Travel Center to Open Later This Month
The location will include six high-speed diesel fuel lanes, free parking for tractor-trailers and more.
Breaking Down the Costs of EV Charging Installations
The right partner can make EV charging accessible and profitable.
Maverik to Sell a Handful of Kum & Go Locations
The retailer is selling select Iowa stores to Mega Saver as it works towards retiring the Kum & Go name.
NACS and Rovertown Team Up for Swipe Fee Reform Advocacy
The partnership has generated over 10,000 letters to Congress through mobile apps.
FDA Denies Marketing for blu E-Cigarette
The product cannot be marketed or distributed in the U.S. subject to the MDO.
More Than Half of Gen Z Indulges in ‘Little Treats’
Little treats are often bought impulsively for a moment of indulgence.
Aug 19, 2025
Do You Know a Successful Latin American C-Store?
Nominations are now open for the NACS Convenience Retailer of the Year Award Latin America.
Reduce Labor Pressure With Grab and Go
Food items that are easy to prepare and require minimal training can help bolster a menu.
Jacksons Launches New NIL Partnerships
And will be the exclusive retailer of Boise State Bronco football collectible trading cards.
Sheetz Partners With Sofar for Another Concert
The partnership is part of the ‘Sheetzertainment’ series.
Rutter’s Brings Back Spam Menu for Fourth Year
The retailer is offering eight different Spam menu items.
Yesway Donates $200,000 to Texas Communities
The Texas retailer said the money will go to those impacted by the July floods.
Aug 18, 2025
Trolli and Mountain Dew Team Up for Product Crossover
The Trolli x Mountain Dew Sour Brite Crawlers gummi candy and Mountain Dew Zero Sugar x Trolli Cherry Lemon are rolling out soon.
Numerator: Consumers Value a Clean Lifestyle
Research found that nearly three-quarters of Americans associate clean living with healthy eating.
A Look Ahead at PDI Connections Live 2025
The event next week in Denver will feature hands-on sessions, networking and industry thought leadership.
Breaking Down Misconceptions About the EV Market
The overall trajectory of EV sales is still ‘up and to the right.’
Rising Beef Prices Continue to Fuel QSR Chicken Wars
Beef-focused chains have said they expect rising cattle costs to take a toll on their profits this year.