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Hey there, convenience store owner/operators! As we look back on Tuesday, the industry was buzzing with innovation, strategic shifts, and global trends that demand our attention. Staying on top of these developments isn’t just about being informed; it’s about proactively positioning your business for success in an ever-evolving market.

1. AI: Your New Partner in Waste Reduction and Profit Growth

We’ve all felt the pinch of food waste and inefficient inventory. The good news? Fast-food chains are showing us a powerful path forward by leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI) to tackle these very issues, and the lessons are directly applicable to our convenience stores. AI, through predictive analytics, is revolutionizing inventory management by accurately forecasting demand. This means fewer stockouts (lost sales!) and less over-ordering (less spoilage and waste!).

Beyond just inventory, AI can automate tasks like ingredient ordering and even help with location-specific forecasts, considering factors like local traffic and events. Imagine knowing precisely how many breakfast burritos to prepare based on the weather forecast and a local event! This level of accuracy protects our tight profit margins, turning small gains into significant revenue increases. While some might worry about workforce cuts, the consensus is that AI primarily supports operations, making our teams more efficient rather than replacing them.

Why it matters to C-Store Owner/Operators: Food waste is a major drain on profitability, and inefficient inventory management leads to both lost sales and unnecessary costs. AI offers a powerful solution to optimize these critical areas, directly impacting your bottom line and sustainability efforts.

What You Should Be Doing:

• Research AI-powered inventory management systems: Look into solutions designed for retail or food service that offer demand forecasting and automated replenishment.
• Start small with a pilot program: Identify a specific category prone to waste (like fresh food or dispensed beverages) and test an AI solution there.
• Educate your team: Help your staff understand how AI can support their roles, making them more efficient and reducing manual tasks.
• Focus on data collection: Ensure your POS and inventory systems are capturing accurate data, as this is the fuel for any effective AI system.

More Information: Food Chain Magazine.

2. Couche-Tard’s Relentless Expansion and Foodservice Focus

Alimentation Couche-Tard, the powerhouse behind Circle K, isn’t slowing down. They’re actively expanding their physical footprint, with plans to open 41 new stores in the coming quarters. But it’s not just about more locations; a significant part of their strategy involves broadening their food offerings. This comes alongside their ongoing efforts to acquire 7-Eleven, indicating a dual approach of both organic growth and strategic acquisitions.

The recent closure of their $1.6 billion acquisition of GetGo Café + Markets further underscores their commitment to foodservice. GetGo is known for its strong food program, and Couche-Tard’s leadership has openly touted its foodservice capabilities as a key driver for the acquisition. This move signals a clear belief that prepared food and fresh offerings are central to the future of convenience.

Why it matters to C-Store Owner/Operators: The industry’s giants are heavily investing in foodservice and expansion. This isn’t just about competition; it’s a clear signal of where the market is heading. If you’re not evolving your food program, you risk being left behind.

What You Should Be Doing:

• Evaluate and enhance your foodservice program: Look at your current offerings. Are they fresh, appealing, and meeting customer demand? Consider expanding into made-to-order options, healthier choices, or local specialties.
• Invest in quality equipment: Good food requires good equipment. Ensure your kitchen and display units are up to par.
• Train your staff on food preparation and handling: Quality and consistency are key to building a reputation for great food.
• Study successful foodservice models: Look at what chains like Couche-Tard/Circle K and others are doing well in foodservice and adapt best practices to your operation.

More information: CoStar.

3. Yesway’s Shifting Sands: A Cautionary Tale and Opportunity

Yesway’s journey over the past few years offers a valuable case study in the complexities of rapid growth and market volatility. After an aggressive expansion, including the acquisition of Allsup’s, and plans for an IPO, the company has faced significant challenges. They’ve experienced stunted growth, executive departures, and are even selling off 30 stores in key markets. This suggests financial pressures and a shift from aggressive expansion to a more consolidated strategy.

While Yesway’s initial growth was impressive, their recent struggles highlight the importance of sustainable growth and adapting to market realities. This doesn’t mean growth isn’t important, but it emphasizes the need for a solid foundation, careful planning, and resilience.

Why it matters to C-Store Owner/Operators: Yesway’s situation is a stark reminder that even large chains face headwinds. It underscores the importance of a well-thought-out growth strategy, financial prudence, and the ability to pivot when market conditions change. For smaller operators, this could also present opportunities as larger players adjust their portfolios.

What You Should Be Doing:

• Review your growth strategy: Is it sustainable? Are you overextending? Ensure your expansion plans are backed by solid financial projections and market analysis.
• Focus on operational efficiency: In challenging times, lean operations are crucial. Look for areas to reduce costs and improve efficiency without compromising customer experience.
• Monitor market trends closely: Be agile and ready to adapt your strategy based on economic shifts, consumer behavior, and competitive landscape changes.
• Consider strategic acquisitions or divestitures: Keep an eye out for opportunities to acquire well-performing local stores or to divest underperforming assets if it aligns with your long-term goals.

More Information: CStore Dive.

4. The Power of Mentorship: Nurturing Talent for Tomorrow

Mentorship is more than just advice; it’s a transformative relationship where experienced professionals guide less experienced individuals, fostering personal and professional growth. In the fast-paced retail environment, mentorship is crucial for knowledge sharing, improving job performance, developing leadership skills, and retaining top talent. It’s a long-term investment that builds sustainable cultures and makes your workforce future-ready.

Mentoring can lead to improved employee performance, increased job satisfaction, faster onboarding for new hires, better communication, and ultimately, enhanced customer experience. It’s a mutually beneficial relationship, as mentors also refine their leadership skills and expand their networks. With emerging trends like virtual mentoring and data-driven matching, implementing a program is more accessible than ever.

Why it matters to C-Store Owner/Operators: In an industry with high turnover and a constant need for skilled staff, mentorship can be a game-changer for employee retention, development, and overall operational excellence. Nurturing your team directly impacts customer service and your store’s success.

What You Should Be Doing:

• Consider implementing a mentorship program: Even informal mentorship can make a big difference. Pair experienced employees with newer ones or those looking to grow.
• Encourage knowledge sharing: Create an environment where employees feel comfortable sharing their expertise and learning from each other.
• Invest in leadership development: Mentorship is a key component of building a strong leadership pipeline within your organization.
• Highlight the benefits: Communicate to your team how mentorship can help them grow professionally and personally.

More Information: CSP Daily News.

5. Global Convenience: Resilience and Evolving Consumer Needs

The global convenience sector demonstrated strong resilience in Q1 2025, with most countries reporting year-over-year value sales growth. Latin America led the charge, while European retailers boosted performance through targeted promotions. This global snapshot reinforces the enduring importance of our industry.

Key consumer preferences emerging globally include a growing demand for wellness, convenience, and affordable indulgence. In the U.S., frozen food, frozen beverages, and wine were top growth categories. Retailers are adapting by expanding alcohol sales (where legal) and capitalizing on niche categories. The overarching message is clear: the convenience sector is adaptable and crucial for meeting evolving consumer needs. Consumers are increasingly seeking immediate gratification and convenience, with a “bring-it-to-me” mindset, driving demand for e-commerce and food delivery.

Why it matters to C-Store Owner/Operators: Understanding global trends helps us anticipate local shifts. The emphasis on wellness, convenience, and specific product categories provides a roadmap for optimizing your product mix and services. The “bring-it-to-me” mindset is a clear signal to explore or enhance delivery options.

What You Should Be Doing:

• Analyze your product mix: Are you stocking enough wellness-focused items, frozen foods, and popular beverages?
• Explore delivery partnerships: If you don’t already, consider partnering with third-party delivery services to meet the “bring-it-to-me” consumer demand.
• Focus on affordable indulgence: In economically uncertain times, consumers still seek small treats. Ensure you have a good selection of these items.
• Stay agile and informed: Continuously monitor consumer trends and be prepared to adapt your offerings and services to meet changing demands.

More Information: Global Convenience.

The Bottom Line

The convenience store industry is dynamic, challenging, and full of opportunity. By staying informed about trends in AI, understanding the strategic moves of major players like Couche-Tard and Yesway, embracing the power of mentorship, and keeping a pulse on global consumer preferences, you’re not just reacting to change—you’re shaping your future.

Remember, every piece of news, every trend, and every challenge is an opportunity to learn, adapt, and innovate. Keep your eyes open, your strategies flexible, and your focus on serving your customers better than anyone else. Here’s to a successful July and beyond!