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It’s always fascinating to see how the convenience store landscape is evolving. Today, I’m sharing five news items that caught my eye on March 20, 2025. From tech innovations to shifting consumer habits, there’s a lot happening. Let’s dive in!

1. C-StoreTEC Expands Vision for Technology Innovation
   • C-StoreTEC announced its 2025 event, scheduled for October 27-29 in Plano, Texas, focusing on driving innovation in the $860 billion convenience store industry. The event will introduce five committees addressing key areas like digital marketing, merchandising, foodservice automation, digitized stores, and workforce development.
2. Consumer Spending Shifts Impact C-Store Sales
   • U.S. convenience store sales volume dropped by 4.3% for the year ending February 23, 2025, as consumers tightened spending on items like chips and cigarettes due to economic pressures. This trend highlights ongoing challenges for retailers adapting to changing consumer behaviors.
3. QSRs Continue to Expand Menu Sizes
   • Quick-service restaurants have grown their menus by 20% over the last 20 years, according to a recent Datassential analysis. This trend impacts convenience stores as they compete in the foodservice sector.
4. EBT Goes EMV: Transition to SNAP Chip Cards
   • Convenience stores are preparing for the rapid transition of Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) payments for SNAP from magstripe to chip cards. Retailers are urged to update their POS systems to accept these new chip-enabled cards.
5. Walmart Expands Fuel and Convenience Station Network
   • Walmart announced plans to have 450 fuel and convenience stations by the end of 2025, indicating increased competition for traditional convenience stores.

And that’s a wrap on today’s quick news update! It’s clear that the convenience store industry is facing some interesting challenges and opportunities. Whether it’s embracing new technologies or adapting to changing consumer needs, it’s all about staying ahead of the game. I hope you found these updates helpful. Stay tuned for more insights, and thanks for reading!

Sources:

• https://www.cspdailynews.com/technologyservices/c-storetec-expands-its-vision-2025-driving-technology-innovation
• https://www.pymnts.com/economy/2025/consumer-snack-caution-leaves-convenience-stores-in-a-lurch/
• https://www.convenience.org/Media/Daily/2025/March/19/4-QSRs-Continue-to-Increase-Menu-Sizes_Research
• https://www.convenience.org/Media/Daily/2025/March/19/5-Navigating-the-Migration-to-EBT-Chip-Cards_Tech
• https://www.pymnts.com/walmart/2025/walmart-to-have-450-fuel-and-convenience-stations-by-end-of-2025/