The Road Ahead: Little treat culture is here, and it’s c-stores’ game to win

Consumer desire for small ways to make their days brighter offers a prime upselling opportunity even in trying times, writes Frank Beard.

By Frank Beard • April 1, 2026

3 Big Numbers: Boozy trends for c-stores’ Q2

A distributor survey sheds light on some summer optimism, which beer companies should get more shelf space and how likely retailers are to get help from producers.

By Jessica Loder • March 27, 2026

Rutter’s builds on reputation as a third place with NCAA title game watch parties

The retailer will host the event at its 1747 Bar and Lounge locations as it seeks to establish itself as a meet-up spot for customers.

By Jessica Loder • March 26, 2026

How c-stores are capitalizing on Americans’ caffeine obsession

Convenience stores are uniquely set up to meet consumers’ increasing appetite for the stimulant, from deeper beverage selections to snacks and energy shots, experts say.

By Christine Blank • March 23, 2026

An ‘everyday choice’: Celsius surges as energy drinks become ‘mainstream’

CEO John Fieldly said more consumers are turning to the beverages as a companion to meals, an alcohol alternative and even when taking GLP-1s.

By Christopher Doering • March 23, 2026

Coffee, cold brew sales slip as lattes, energy drinks surge

Drip coffee and cold brew orders fell in 2025 as energy drinks exploded and premium, handcrafted coffees saw a modest rise.

By Aneurin Canham-Clyne • March 16, 2026

Global foods - A growth opportunity for convenience

There is a developing trend in grocery retail that translates well into convenience. Global foods, when offered strategically, are a clear cut winner.

By IDDBA • March 16, 2026

Energy drinks are fueling Casey’s in-store sales

Grocery and general merchandise same-store sales grew 4% in Q3, sparked by strong sales in the category, which surged 14%, President and CEO Darren Rebelez said.

By Brett Dworski • March 12, 2026

3 Big Numbers: Sunoco steps up its c-store focus

The largest independent fuel distributor in North America is also making a daring move up the ranks of convenience retailers.

By Jessica Loder • March 6, 2026

Tri Star launches private label snack line

“Daily Favorites,” which includes chips, jerky and candy bars, will be available in Twice Daily, White Bison Coffee, Sudden Service and Little General stores.

By Jessica Loder • March 6, 2026

QuikTrip to open at least 80 c-stores in 2026

The Oklahoma-based retailer recently opened its 1,200th store and has grown its footprint by more than 20% in roughly three years.

By Jessica Loder • Feb. 26, 2026

How c-stores are buying into this year’s top flavor trends

Weigel’s, Love’s and 7-Eleven are among the retailers playing with various new takes on a “sweet and-” trend that’s expanding beyond the world of hot honey.

By Christine Blank • Feb. 23, 2026

NRA: Restaurant, foodservice to surpass $1.5 trillion in sales

While challenges related to the economy and food and labor costs will persist, the National Restaurant Association said operators are cautiously optimistic.

By Julie Littman • Feb. 19, 2026

Recapping the major moves reshaping 7-Eleven

The world’s largest convenience retailer has seen significant changes in its leadership and made strides in store development as it navigates choppy economic waters.

By Jessica Loder • Feb. 17, 2026

3 Big Numbers: What’s on tap for tobacco?

Most nicotine categories continue to shrink, but retailers have some optimism for the year ahead, especially around smokeless products.

By Jessica Loder • Feb. 6, 2026

PepsiCo cutting prices on Doritos and other snacks by up to 15%

The Cheetos maker said the reductions will “improve competitiveness” and boost purchase frequency among cash-strapped consumers.

By Christopher Doering • Feb. 4, 2026

Everyone’s talking about bitcoin ATM scams. This operator built the kill switch.

The Bitcoin ATM industry is under fire due to operators prioritizing profit over protection. America Bitcoin ATM built a real-time kill switch.

By Chris McAlary, Founder, America Bitcoin ATM • Feb. 2, 2026

What’s ahead for c-stores in 2026?

See what trends, categories and operators are due for a big year as we look ahead at the next 11 months.

By Jessica Loder • Jan. 30, 2026

Parker’s Rewards shifts to points-based system

The updated offering also lets customers use their phone number instead of a loyalty card, among other updates.

By Jessica Loder • Jan. 27, 2026

Do cannabis products still have a future in convenience stores?

Demand is still growing as some retailers test the category, but recent legislation could mean it’s just too risky for many operators.

By Michael Brady • Jan. 26, 2026

ExtraMile joins growing list of c-store retailers debuting alcohol rebates

Value offers have become increasingly common in convenience stores in recent years as operators large and small have seen their profits dip.

By Brett Dworski • Jan. 23, 2026

Drink up: Restaurants will spend more on beverage innovation in 2026

Mocktails, energy drinks and premium caffeine options are set to sweep through menus this year. 

By Aneurin Canham-Clyne • Jan. 23, 2026

Buc-ee’s next stop? Nebraska.

The supersized c-store chain is looking to build its first location in the state as it continues its growth across the continental U.S.

By Jessica Loder • Jan. 22, 2026

Parker’s becomes the latest c-store to up its beverage game

A new location in Georgia is the first to offer the retailer’s made-to-order beverage program, and marks the debut of its larger PK2 store prototype. 

By Jessica Loder • Jan. 20, 2026

Circle K franchisee ups cannabinoid focus with new THC drink partnership

Despite an uncertain regulatory environment around the beverages, DFW Oil & Energy has now added Varin to its product lineup in Texas.

By Jessica Loder • Jan. 15, 2026