THE MODERN NICOTINE BALANCING ACT
Regulatory navigation, increasing innovation, price sensitivity and changing consumer behavior are testing merchandising decisions at the backbar.
the CSD Group
www.cstoredecisions.com
EDITORIAL
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EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD
Nate Brazier, CEO
Stinker Stores • Boise, Idaho
Robert Buhler, President and CEO
Open Pantry Food Marts • Pleasant Prairie, Wis.
Herb Hargraves, Chief Operating Officer
Sprint Mart • Ridgeland, Miss.
Bill Kent, Chairman and CEO
The Kent Cos. Inc. • Midland, Texas
Nick Triantafellou, Director of Marketing & Merchandising
Weigel’s Inc. • Knoxville, Tenn.
Dyson Williams, Vice President
Dandy Mini Marts. • Sayre, Pa.
NATIONAL ADVISORY GROUP (NAG) BOARD (RETAILERS)
Greg Ehrlich, (Board Chairman) President
Beck Suppliers Inc. • Fremont, Ohio
Joy Almekies, Senior Director of Food Services
Global Partners • Waltham, Mass.
Jeff Carpenter, Director of Education and Training
Cliff’s Local Market • Marcy, N.Y.
Richard Cashion, Chief Operating Officer
Curby’s Express Market • Lubbock, Texas
Ryan Faville, Director of Purchasing
Stewart’s Shops Corp. • Saratoga Springs, N.Y.
Cole Fountain, Senior Director of Merchandising
Gate Petroleum Co. • Jacksonville, Fla.
Kalen Frese, Director of Merchandising
Warrenton Oil Inc. • Warrenton, Mo.
Joe Hamza, Chief Operating Officer
Nouria Energy Corp. • Worcester, Mass.
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Beth Hoffer, Vice President
Weigel’s • Powell, Tenn.
David Land II, Director of Marketing
The Kent Cos. Inc. • Midland, Texas
Brent Mouton, President and CEO
Hit-N-Run Food Stores • Lafayette, La.
Lenny Smith, Vice President
Crosby’s • Lockport, N.Y.
Dyson Williams, Vice President
Dandy Mini Marts • Sayre, Pa.
Hussein Yatim, Vice President
YATCO • Marlborough, Mass.
Vernon Young, President and CEO
Young Oil Co. • Piedmont, Ala.
Supplier Members
Kyle May, Director External Relations
Reynolds Marketing Services Co. • Winston-Salem, N.C.
Todd Verhoven, Vice President of Sales
Hunt Brothers Pizza • Nashville, Tenn.
Steve Yawn, Director of Sales
McLane Company Inc. • Temple, Texas
CStore Decisions is a three-time winner of the Neal Award, the American Business Press’ highest
Of Backbars & Rescue Pups
IN JANUARY, my husband and I adopted a new rescue dog. Our two-year-old English bulldog Veronica Gazpacho (aka “Vonnie”) was in major need of a playmate. We didn’t have the bandwidth for a new puppy, so we stopped by our local rescue to “just look” at some adult dogs, as if either of us is the type of person that can “just look” at a rescue dog without immediately bringing it home.
We were introduced to a sweet, three-year-old AmericanEnglish bulldog mix with a white coat and gray spots over her eyes, who immediately crawled into my husband’s lap and staked her claim. She was advertised as the dog who “fits so easily into your life you won’t even know she’s there.” She and our dog got along great. What could go wrong? We named her Vinchenza Cannoli (aka “Vinnie”) and brought her home.
From the moment Vinnie’s tail waggled over our threshold, she shapeshifted into a tiny tyrant on four paws. First, we discovered the extreme separation anxiety and food anxiety tantrums, then the unsafe fixation on our cats, and then the growling at house guests — the list went on. Oh, and she’s still not potty trained. Saner humans would have driven her right back where she came from. We, meanwhile, now have a trainer and dog behaviorist on speed dial.
It occurred to me as I was working on this issue of CStore Decisions that handling a difficult rescue dog has some similarities to managing the tobacco backbar in 2026.
BACKBARS & BARKERS
Just like a rescue pup arrives with a range of bad habits formed in previous environments, the tobacco backbar at a c-store has often been shaped by years of responding to consumer preferences, changing brand availability, pricing pressure and regulatory shifts. In some cases, there might be out-of-stocks, products that just don’t move or even illegal items that need to be removed. The only way forward is to start with where you are and evaluate where you want to go in the new environment we are in today.
In either case, just when you think you have it all figured out, something changes, whether that’s a surprise behavior from the rescue pup or a new macro trend hitting the tobacco backbar, such as local legislation or economic changes that shift customer preferences, and suddenly things are off balance.
With dogs and tobacco backbars, small wins matter. In your case, that might be a cleaner SKU rationalization, better segmentation between premium and value brands or reduced outof-stocks. In my case, Vinnie can now look at me for a treat after seeing our cats instead of flying across the room to eat them. But skip routines with a rescue dog and chaos returns immediately. The same happens behind the counter. One neglected reset becomes two, or temporary product overflow becomes permanent clutter that can cause confusion for customers.
Overcorrecting a rescue pup can increase fear while under correcting fails to fix issues. In the same way, if you react too aggressively to changes in demand or don’t adjust enough, you risk losing tobacco customers.
There is also the reality that progress is rarely linear. A rescue dog may improve in one area while regressing in another. Vinnie, for example, is doing better with her food tantrums this week but is having trouble settling down at night. The backbar behaves similarly. One segment stabilizes while another becomes volatile due to fluctuating purchase behavior or evolving compliance requirements.
Our trainer keeps using scary phrases when talking about Vinnie like “lifelong management” instead of “easy fix.” And the tobacco backbar in 2026 is the same. Tobacco is more regulated than ever, with local, state and federal legislation continuing to threaten ongoing changes. It’s also more sensitive to external pressures, such as rising cigarette prices and state excise taxes at a time when customers are more squeezed than ever, illicit vapes are flooding the market and new segments are beginning to trend. Stability in both situations is something you must recreate repeatedly, not something you arrive at one time.
As you work to find the equilibrium on your tobacco backbar, CStore Decisions’ June tobacco issue is here to help you stay up to date on the trends shaping the category. As we move ahead in 2026, I wish us both luck, me with my new rescue pup and you with your tobacco backbar.
QUICKBITES
CONFIDENCE AND COMMERCE
As consumers consider a potential recession and post-COVID finances, consumer shopping is seeing global influences and digital growth.
CONTROL OF CATEGORY
Customers want more control over and confidence in what they buy for some centerstore categories, such as candy, beauty and healthcare products, according to 84.51°.
Source: 84.51°, Consumer Digest Issue 3: 2026, April 2026
ECONOMIC UNCERTAINTY
Eighty-four percent of the general population is somewhat or very concerned about a recession in the U.S. in the near future.
Source: CivicScience, “Growing Recession Fears Are Pushing Americans to Shop Online and Rethink Self-Care Spending,” April 2026
POST-PANDEMIC FINANCES
Respondents were asked, “Would you say you’re financially better or worse off than before the COVID-19 pandemic?” In 2026 so far, the divide is split almost equally among those doing better, worse and the same.
Source: CivicScience, “3 Things to Know: America’s Post-Pandemic Financial Recovery Is Now Split, Third-Party Delivery App Returns, and Critical Viewing Habits,” May 2026
FROM EAST TO WEST
According to NielsenIQ, Eastern-led commerce innovation is meeting Western retail media monetization. In the U.S., social commerce and quick commerce are outpacing traditional e-commerce growth.
• Retail media reached $184 billion in global spend in 2025, with more than 270 networks worldwide
• The Asia-Pacific region accounts for nearly 55% of global e-commerce, driven by integrated platforms that unify content, commerce, payments, logistics and artificial intelligence — models increasingly influencing Western markets.
• In Western markets, discovery-led commerce is accelerating, with nearly one-third of consumers purchasing after discovering products on social platforms.
LOYALTY GROWTH
Loyalty programs are shifting from passive to active, found e-commerce customer loyalty and engagement platform LoyaltyLion, with consumers using them to manage spending. Younger consumers, particularly, are checking their points, rewards and ways to save.
• 91% say loyalty programs influence repeat purchase.
• Consumers log in 10.84 times a month on average.
• 15% engage daily with loyalty programs.
• 58% log in at least weekly, rising to 80% of 16–24-year-olds.
Source: LoyaltyLion, “91% of shoppers say loyalty programs drive them to shop as US consumers become ‘loyalty lovers,’" May 2026
Source: NielsenIQ, “The Commerce Revolution: Where East Meets West,” April 2026
THE AR T OF MERCHANDISINGTM
TH E A R T OF MERCHA N DISIN GT M
Merchandising is more than fito ut and fixtures It’s the art of creating an attractive, well-organized retail presentation. As with any artistic composition, a wide variety of tools may be used to create your masterpiece. In retail Visual Merchandising, a gondola, pegboard, slatwall or shelf is your blank canvas When combined with tools such as d i splay h o o ks, label a n d s i gn hol d ers , bar merchandisers, tray systems, and merchandising accessories, there are endless ways to effectively display all kinds of products and inspire your target audience to make a purchase As one of the world’s top retail fixture manufacturers, Trion offers a generous supply of over 25,000 components and over 50 years of experience using them to execute precise planogram solutions, store designs and retail displays. Call us to turn your vision into an inspirational retail masterpiece.
DISPlAY AND SCAN HOOKS
lAbEl HOlDER SYSTEMS
DIVIDER AND PUSHER SYSTEMS
bAR MERCHANDISING SYSTEMS
COOlER MERCHANDISING SYSTEMS
THE ART OF MERCHANDISIN
THE ART OF MERCHANDISING
THE ART OF MERCHANDISIN
THE ART OF MERCHANDISIN
Create Your Own Merchandising Masterpiece with Trion Fixtures
Merchandising Masterpiece with Trion Fixtures
THE ART OF MERCHANDISIN G ®
Create Your Own Merchandising Masterpiece with Trion Fixtures
See More, Sell More WonderBar® Trays
Cold Front Forecast Air F low Baffle
Grab Pouches by the Scruff Pouch Hook
Grab Pouches by the Scruff Pouch Hook
Grab Pouches by the Scruff pouch Hook™
Food for Thought Z ip Track ® Merchandiser
The forecast is a cold cooler front when you use Trion’s Air Flow Baffle in coolers. Product temperature can be difficult to maintain at the front of a cooler. This Air Flow Baffle ensures that cold air is forced forward to keep items at their ideal temperature. Use as part of your cooler outfitting strategy, along with WonderBar ® Bar Merchandisers and hooks, EWTTM Expandable Wire Tray System, and cooler capable Clear Scan® label holders.
Trion delivers your merchandising solutions on a platter actually, more of a tray. WonderBar® Trays solve the problem of how to stock, display, and sell an unlimited variety of products, including hardware, soft goods, coffee, dry goods, pet treats, and more. Adjust the tray from 51⁄2 " to 8 " wide, creating customized widths that accommodate boxes, bags, pillow packs, gusseted bags, bottles, clam shells, blister packs, and various tub shapes. Depths range from 13 " to 24 ", and trays feature integrated label holders. You’ll sell more when customers can see more! After the sale, simply lift out the tray for convenient rear restocking.
Trion delivers your merchandising solutions on a platter actually, more of a tray. WonderBar® Trays solve the problem of how to stock, display, and sell an unlimited variety of products, including hardware, soft goods, coffee, dry goods, pet treats, and more. Adjust the tray from 51⁄2 " to 8 " wide, creating customized widths that accommodate boxes, bags, pillow packs, gusseted bags, bottles, clam shells, blister packs, and various tub shapes. Depths range from 13 " to 24 ", and trays feature integrated label holders. You’ll sell more when customers can see more! After the sale, simply lift out the tray for convenient rear restocking.
Grab Pouches by the Scruff Pouch Hook
Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
Trion delivers your merchandising solutions on a platter actually, more of a tray. WonderBar® Trays solve the problem of how to stock, display, and sell an unlimited variety of products, including hardware, soft goods, coffee, dry goods, pet treats, and more. Adjust the tray from 51⁄2 " to 8 " wide, creating customized widths that accommodate boxes, bags, pillow packs, gusseted bags, bottles, clam shells, blister packs, and various tub shapes. Depths range from 13 " to 24 ", and trays feature integrated label holders. You’ll sell more when customers can see more! After the sale, simply lift out the tray for convenient rear restocking.
Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
It’s not just for coolers or beverages. Use ZIP Track® in grocery to arrange and organize peanut butter & jelly, salad dressings, condiments, and more. The most versatile system of its kind on the market and in the supermarket. Easy to install, ZIP Track® components clip on a front rail allowing lanes to adjust quickly, even when full or to add additional facings. Use actual product to set lane width from 2" up to 3 3/4" Slide product front-to-back to “ZIP” each track together. Custom spring tensions and lane depths are available to fit any and all shelf and product needs. The sturdy plastic is durable, with an extended merchandising life.
What’s better than a pouch hook that automatically positions products for purchasing? A pouch hook that allows for easy restocking and is compatible with existing bar merchandising systems, that’s what! Need more reasons? They are available in 4 lengths to accommodate varied depths; feature a rear-loading design; include flip-front label holder, and tool-free installation on gondola, on pegboard, and in coolers. Of course, standard pouch hooks are available in case you are not a believer in gravity feed or gravity itself.
Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
Containers Well Contained
Cooler Capable AMT®
Cross Sell Adjacencies Dual Lane Trays
Cross Sell Adjacencies
Cross Sell Adjacencies Dual Lane Trays
Dual Lane Trays
What’s better than a pouch hook that automatically positions products for purchasing? A pouch hook that allows for easy restocking and is compatible with existing bar merchandising systems, that’s what! Need more reasons? They are available in 4 lengths to accommodate varied depths; feature a rear-loading design; include flip-front label holder, and tool-free installation on gondola, on pegboard, and in coolers. Of course, standard pouch hooks are available in case you are not a believer in gravity feed or gravity itself.
What’s better than a pouch hook that automatically positions products for purchasing? A pouch hook that allows for restocking and is compatible with existing bar merchandising systems, that’s what! Need more reasons? They are available in 4 lengths to accommodate varied depths; feature a rear-loading design; include flip-front label holder, and tool-free installation on gondola, on pegboard, and in coolers. Of course, standard pouch hooks are available in case you are not a believer in gravity feed or gravity itself.
If you think the WonderBar EWT is great, wait till you meet its big brother! Oversized just like some of your products, this weightlifter stays strong on both metal and open wire shelves and bar. One-piece installation means you can drop this bad boy right into place, adjust as needed, and watch the revenue increase. The EWT takes over from there, automatically feeding product to the front and billboarding merchandise for maximum visibility. Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
What’s better than a pouch hook that automatically positions products for purchasing? A pouch hook that allows for easy restocking and is compatible with existing bar merchandising systems, that’s what! Need more reasons? They are available in 4 lengths to accommodate varied depths; feature a rear-loading design; include flip-front label holder, and tool-free installation on gondola, on pegboard, and in coolers. Of course, standard pouch hooks are available in case you are not a believer in gravity feed or gravity itself.
Call 800-444-4665 |
Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
Trays
A Clear Solution Dividers & Pushers
A Clear Solution Dividers & Pushers
A Clear Solution Dividers & Pushers
After one item is removed from our auto-feed, adjustable dual lane trays, the next product moves right into position. Each lane can be individually adjusted to a range of widths to maximize cross-sell opportunities. In addition, you can choose the push strength for either lightweight or heavy items. Dual Lane Trays give you the ability to customize displays to suit your inventory offerings.
After one item is removed from our auto-feed, adjustable dual lane trays, the next product moves right into position. Each lane can be individually adjusted to a range of widths to maximize cross-sell opportunities. In addition, you can choose the push strength for either lightweight or heavy items. Dual Lane Trays give you the ability to customize displays to suit your inventory offerings.
After one item is removed from our auto-feed, adjustable dual lane trays, the next product moves right into position. Each lane can be individually adjusted to a range of widths to maximize cross-sell opportunities. In addition, you can choose the push strength for either lightweight or heavy items. Dual Lane Trays give you the ability to customize displays to suit your inventory offerings.
Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
Neatly and effectively display cooler and freezer items, including yogurt, dips, puddings, ice cream, single-serve foods, and more. Our small Adjustable Merchandising Tray (AMT) fits a range of 4- to 6-ounce cups; the medium AMT organizes mid-range offerings; and the large AMT gives ice cream lovers pause to browse and choose a pint of their favorite flavor (hmmm why not get both Cherry Vanilla and Rocky Road?). This manual-feed tray ensures that products remain faced and accessible. Time to re-stock? Just lift out and refill. Add Clear Scan® Label Holder, and you’re finished! Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
Let’s be clear. These are the best systems to display colorful items that draw the customers’ eyes... and their dollars. Sturdy enough for busy retail environments, these dividers let products promote themselves keeping packaging visible. Trion pushers keep items forwarded and faced for best visibility. Deploy Trion’s acrylic options for items including cosmetics, vitamins and supplements, crafts, party supplies, and more.
Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
Trion delivers your merchandising solutions on a platter actually, more of a tray. WonderBar® Trays solve the problem of how to stock, display, and sell an unlimited variety of products, including hardware, soft goods, coffee, dry goods, pet treats, and more. Adjust the tray from 51⁄2 " to 8 " wide, creating customized widths that accommodate boxes, bags, pillow packs, gusseted bags, bottles, clam shells, blister packs, and various tub shapes. Depths range from 13 " to 24 ", and trays feature integrated label holders. You’ll sell more when customers can see more! After the sale, simply lift out the tray for convenient rear restocking. Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
WonderBar® Displays are the versatile heroes of the Trion product family, coming to the rescue when you need muscle and good looks to merchandise items of all sizes. These Bar Hooks can lift heavy loads in their capable arms. Display or Scan, Saddle Mount or Plug in, there are Trion WonderBar Hooks for every need.
Let’s be clear. These are the best systems to display colorful items that draw the customers’ eyes... and their dollars. Sturdy enough for busy retail environments, these dividers let products promote themselves keeping packaging visible. Trion pushers keep items forwarded and faced for best visibility. Deploy Trion’s acrylic options for items including cosmetics, vitamins and supplements, crafts, party supplies, and more.
Let’s be clear. These are the best systems to display colorful items that draw the customers’ eyes... and their dollars. Sturdy enough for busy retail environments, these dividers let products promote themselves keeping packaging visible. Trion pushers keep items forwarded and faced for best visibility. Deploy Trion’s acrylic options for items including cosmetics, vitamins and supplements, crafts, party supplies, and more.
THE ART OF MERCHANDISING
THE ART OF MERCHANDISIN
Introducing ZIP Track® Merchandising System for Beverage & Storewide
For Grab-and-Go Beverage Sales
Zip Track® Beverage System
The forecast is a cold cooler front when you use Trion’s Air Flow Baffle in coolers. Product temperature can be difficult to maintain at the front of a cooler. This Air Flow Baffle ensures that cold air is forced forward to keep items at their ideal temperature. Use as part of your cooler outfitting strategy, along with WonderBar ® Bar Merchandisers and hooks, EWTTM Expandable Wire Tray System, and cooler capable Clear Scan® label holders.
Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
Merchandise all size drinks from mini Red Bull® cans to oversized Gatorade® bottles. ZIP Track® is the most versatile and cost-effective Grab-and-Go system available on the market. Use actual product to set lane width from 2" to 3 3/4 " . Reset lane width on set-up in less than 30 seconds. Shelf-based and coolerready, this anchored system billboards product for easy selection and fast sale. ZIP Track® forwards and faces product at all times. Quickly add lanes with this easy to install and adjust system. ZIP Track® offers a wide range of adjustability for this ever-evolving beverage category and changing package designs.
For Storewide and Grocery Sales
Zip Track® Merchandiser
It’s not just for coolers or beverages. Use ZIP Track® in multiple categories to showcase many different types of product. This is the most versatile system, of its kind available on the market. Manufactured from durable, modern plastics, it provides extended merchandising life. ZIP Track® offers a wide range of adjustability. Custom spring tensions and lane depths are available to fit any and all shelf and product needs.
dips, puddings, ice cream, single-serve foods, and more. Our small Adjustable Merchandising Tray (AMT) fits a range of 4- to 6-ounce cups; the medium AMT organizes mid-range offerings; and the large AMT gives ice cream lovers pause to browse and choose a pint of their favorite flavor (hmmm why not get both Cherry Vanilla and Rocky Road?). This manual-feed tray ensures that products remain faced and accessible. Time to re-stock? Just lift out and refill. Add Clear Scan® Label Holder, and you’re finished! Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
Clip It! Installs in an Instant Zip Track® Components
WonderBar EWT Large
If you think the WonderBar EWT is great, wait till you meet its big brother! Oversized just like some of your products, this weightlifter stays strong on both metal and open wire shelves and bar. One-piece installation means you can drop this bad boy right into place, adjust as needed, and watch the revenue increase. The EWT takes over from there, automatically feeding product to the front and billboarding merchandise for maximum visibility. Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
ZIP Track ® components clip on the front rail allowing easy adjustment. Lanes can slide on the rail even when full or to add additional facings.
Zip It! Setting Width is a Breeze Zip Track® Easy install
Use actual product to set lane width from 2 " up to 3 3/4 ". Slide product front-to-back, along the lane, to “ZIP” each track together in final position.
Super Hooks!
Fill It! With a Wide Range of Products Zip Track® Sells it All
WonderBar Displays are the versatile heroes of the Trion product family, coming to the rescue when you need muscle and good looks to merchandise items of all sizes. These Bar Hooks can lift heavy loads in their capable arms. Display or Scan, Saddle Mount or Plug in, there are Trion WonderBar Hooks for every need.
Fill it with product. ZIP Track® maintains its width accurately for the entire depth of facing without the need for a rear anchor system.
faced. Feature items of different widths via asymmetric lane configurations. Cross merchandise a variety of products with ease. Trays install without tools and lift out for quick restocking or product rotation. Full line includes standard and oversize trays, and display, scan and pusher hooks. Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
OF MERCHANDISIN G ®
THE ART OF MERCHANDISING
THE ART OF MERCHANDISIN
Create Your Own Merchandising Masterpiece with Trion Fixtures
Create
1 ⁄4 . Each lane features a separate pusher paddle to keep products forwarded and faced. Feature items of different widths via asymmetric lane configurations. Cross merchandise a variety of products with ease. Trays install without tools and lift out for quick restocking or product rotation. Full line includes standard and oversize trays, and display, scan and pusher hooks. Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
Merchandising Masterpiece with Trion Fixtures
the display space and create unique presentations of similar or related items. This cross-selling approach makes shopping easier for the customer and more profitable for you. Select from a range of other Trion outfitting to maximize selling space from the base deck to the top shelf and beyond. Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
THE ART OF MERCHANDISIN G ®
This cross-selling approach makes shopping easier for the customer and more profitable for you. Select from a range of other Trion outfitting to maximize selling space from the base deck to the top shelf and beyond. Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
Create Your Own Merchandising Masterpiece with Trion Fixtures
An Open and Shut Case Flip-Scan® Hooks
Over 450 Profiles Clear Scan® Label Holders
Cold Front Forecast Air F low Baffle
Over 450 Profiles Clear Scan® Label Holders
Exciting Cross Sells Mini Dual Lane Trays
Oversize? No Problem! WonderBar® EWTTM Large
An Open and Shut Case Flip-Scan® Hooks
For Easy Selection and Fast Sales Z ip Track ® Merchandiser
The forecast is a cold cooler front when you use Trion’s Air Flow Baffle in coolers. Product temperature can be difficult to maintain at the front of a cooler. This Air Flow Baffle ensures that cold air is forced forward to keep items at their ideal temperature. Use as part of your cooler outfitting strategy, along with WonderBar ® Bar Merchandisers and hooks, EWTTM Expandable Wire Tray System, and cooler capable Clear Scan® label holders.
Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
This mini tray leads to maximum revenue, because it allows complimentary items to be featured together. Dual lanes adjust to fit narrow merchandise sizes as small as 1 3⁄4 ". Each lane features a separate pusher paddle to keep products forwarded and faced. Feature items of different widths via asymmetric lane configurations. Cross merchandise a variety of products with ease. Trays install without tools and lift out for quick restocking or product rotation. Full line includes standard and oversize trays, and display, scan and pusher hooks. Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
Storewide solutions for any labeling need. Available in a variety of profiles (shapes), these bright, clear label holders are easily positioned in all standard C-channel configurations, as well as displays incorporating metal, glass, wood, wire baskets, wire shelving, wire fencing, and scanning hooks. Plain paper labels drop in behind a clear flexible PVC front, allowing labels to be changed quickly and inexpensively without messy adhesive backing. Adhesive label holders and strips also available if that is your need. Save time, increase visibility, and boost sales with this storewide labeling system. Cooler capable, color, and built-in promo Clip label holders and strips available. Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
Storewide solutions for any labeling need. Available in a variety of profiles (shapes), these bright, clear label holders are easily positioned in all standard C-channel configurations, as well as displays incorporating metal, glass, wood, wire baskets, wire shelving, wire fencing, and scanning hooks. Plain paper labels drop in behind a clear flexible PVC front, allowing labels to be changed quickly and inexpensively without messy adhesive backing. Adhesive label holders and strips also available if that is your need. Save time, increase visibility, and boost sales with this storewide labeling system. Cooler capable, color, and built-in promo Clip label holders and strips available. Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
If you think the WonderBar EWT is great, wait till you meet its big brother! Oversized just like some of your products, this weightlifter stays strong on both metal and open wire shelves and bar. One-piece installation means you can drop this bad boy right into place, adjust as needed, and watch the revenue increase. The EWT takes over from there, automatically feeding product to the front and billboarding merchandise for maximum visibility. Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
Use ZIP Track® in multiple categories to showcase many different types of product. It's not just for coolers or beverages. This is the most versatile system of its kind on the market. Easy to install, ZIP Track® components clip on a front rail allowing lanes to adjust quickly, even when full or to add additional facings. Use actual product to set lane width from 2" up to 3 3/4 " . Slide product front-to-back to “ZIP” each track together. Custom spring tensions and lane depths are available to fit any and all shelf and product needs. The sturdy plastic is durable, with an extended merchandising life.
Super Hooks!
WonderBar® Hooks
Over 450 Profiles Clear Scan® Label Holders
Containers Well Contained Cooler Capable AMT®
Neatly and effectively display cooler and freezer items, including yogurt, dips, puddings, ice cream, single-serve foods, and more. Our small Adjustable Merchandising Tray (AMT) fits a range of 4- to 6-ounce cups; the medium AMT organizes mid-range offerings; and the large AMT gives ice cream lovers pause to browse and choose a pint of their favorite flavor (hmmm why not get both Cherry Vanilla and Rocky Road?). This manual-feed tray ensures that products remain faced and accessible. Time to re-stock? Just lift out and refill. Add Clear Scan® Label Holder, and you’re finished! Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
WonderBar® Displays are the versatile heroes of the Trion product family, coming to the rescue when you need muscle and good looks to merchandise items of all sizes. These Bar Hooks can lift heavy loads in their capable arms. Display or Scan, Saddle Mount or Plug in, there are Trion WonderBar Hooks for every need.
Storewide solutions for any labeling need. Available in a variety of profiles (shapes), these bright, clear label holders are easily positioned in all standard C-channel configurations, as well as displays incorporating metal, glass, wood, wire baskets, wire shelving, wire fencing, and scanning hooks. Plain paper labels drop in behind a clear flexible PVC front, allowing labels to be changed quickly and inexpensively without messy adhesive backing. Adhesive label holders and strips also available if that is your need. Save time, increase visibility, and boost sales with this storewide labeling system. Cooler capable, color, and built-in promo Clip label holders and strips available. Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
Oversize? No Problem! WonderBar® EWTTM Large
For the Bulky Stuff Base Deck Fencing
If you think the WonderBar EWT is great, wait till you meet its big brother! Oversized just like some of your products, this weightlifter stays strong on both metal and open wire shelves and bar. One-piece installation means you can drop this bad boy right into place, adjust as needed, and watch the revenue increase. The EWT takes over from there, automatically feeding product to the front and billboarding merchandise for maximum visibility. Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
Flip-Scan® hooks are an open and shut case for ease of use. The articulated label holder lifts up and out of the way for easy product access, then falls back to vertical for viewing product and price info. Our unique label holder flexes open so plain paper labels can be inserted effortlessly. Available with short label holders or full length label strips and constructed of long-life materials, these durable, attractive scan hooks can outfit all display surfaces, including pegboard, slatwall, grid, crossbar, and corrugated. Fully compatible with the Clear Scan® Label Holder System for C-channel, shelf edge, wire basket, and refrigerated areas storewide.
This bottom is tops for displaying heavy, bulky, or hard-to-fit items. Display them attractively and neatly using front fencing and dividers to customize the display space and create unique presentations of similar or related items. This cross-selling approach makes shopping easier for the customer and more profitable for you. Select from a range of other Trion outfitting to maximize selling space from the base deck to the top shelf and beyond. Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
Flip-Scan® hooks are an open and shut case for ease of use. The articulated label holder lifts up and out of the way for easy product access, then falls back to vertical for viewing product and price info. Our unique label holder flexes open so plain paper labels can be inserted effortlessly. Available with short label holders or full length label strips and constructed of long-life materials, these durable, attractive scan hooks can outfit all display surfaces, including pegboard, slatwall, grid, crossbar, and corrugated. Fully compatible with the Clear Scan® Label Holder System for C-channel, shelf edge, wire basket, and refrigerated areas storewide.
Exciting Cross Sells Mini Dual Lane Trays
Flip-Scan Hooks
WonderBar® Displays are the versatile heroes of the Trion product family, coming to the rescue when you need muscle and good looks to merchandise items of all sizes. These Bar Hooks can lift heavy loads in their capable arms. Display or Scan, Saddle Mount or Plug in, there are Trion WonderBar Hooks for every need.
This mini tray leads to maximum revenue, because it allows complimentary items to be featured together. Dual lanes adjust to fit narrow merchandise sizes as small as 1 3⁄4 ". Each lane features a separate pusher paddle to keep products forwarded and faced. Feature items of different widths via asymmetric lane configurations. Cross merchandise a variety of products with ease. Trays install without tools and lift out for quick restocking or product rotation. Full line includes standard and oversize trays, and display, scan and pusher hooks.
Flip-Scan® hooks are an open and shut case for ease of use. The articulated label holder lifts up and out of the way for easy product access, then falls back to vertical for viewing product and price info. Our unique label holder flexes open so plain paper labels can be inserted effortlessly. Available with short label holders or full length label strips and constructed of long-life materials, these durable, attractive scan hooks can outfit all display surfaces, including pegboard, slatwall, grid, crossbar, and corrugated. Fully compatible with the Clear Scan® Label Holder System for C-channel, shelf edge, wire basket, and refrigerated areas storewide.
©2019 Trion Industries, Inc.
©2019 Trion Industries, Inc.
THE ART OF MERCHANDISIN G
MERCHANDISIN G ®
THE ART OF MERCHANDISING
THE ART OF MERCHANDISIN
THE ART OF MERCHANDISIN G
THE ART OF
THE ART OF MERCHANDISIN
Create Your Own Merchandising Masterpiece with Trion Fixtures
Create Your Own Merchandising Masterpiece with Trion Fixtures
Cold Front Forecast Air F low Baffle
WonderBar®
Cold Front Forecast Air F low Baffle
Cold Front Forecast Air F low Baffle
Oversize? No Problem!
Cold Front Forecast Air F low Baffle
The forecast is a cold cooler front when you use Trion’s Air Flow Baffle in coolers. Product temperature can be difficult to maintain at the front of a cooler. This Air Flow Baffle ensures that cold air is forced forward to keep items at their ideal temperature. Use as part of your cooler outfitting strategy, along with WonderBar ® Bar Merchandisers and hooks, EWTTM Expandable Wire Tray System, and cooler capable Clear Scan® label holders.
EWTTM Large
Oversize? No Problem! WonderBar® EWTTM Large
Cold Front Forecast Air F low Baffle
Oversize? No Problem!
Oversize? No Problem! WonderBar® EWTTM Large
Oversize? No Problem! WonderBar® EWTTM Large
The forecast is a cold cooler front when you use Trion’s Air Flow Baffle in coolers. Product temperature can be difficult to maintain at the front of a cooler. This Air Flow Baffle ensures that cold air is forced forward to keep items at their ideal temperature. Use as part of your cooler outfitting strategy, along with WonderBar ® Bar Merchandisers and hooks, EWTTM Expandable Wire Tray System, and cooler capable Clear Scan® label holders.
The forecast is a cold cooler front when you use Trion’s Air Flow Baffle in coolers. Product temperature can be difficult to maintain at the front of a cooler. This Air Flow Baffle ensures that cold air is forced forward to keep items at their ideal temperature. Use as part of your cooler outfitting strategy, along with WonderBar ® Bar Merchandisers and hooks, EWTTM Expandable Wire Tray System, and cooler capable Clear Scan® label holders.
The forecast is a cold cooler front when you use Trion’s Air Flow Baffle in coolers. Product temperature can be difficult to maintain at the front of a cooler. This Air Flow Baffle ensures that cold air is forced forward to keep items at their ideal temperature. Use as part of your cooler outfitting strategy, along with WonderBar ® Bar Merchandisers and hooks, EWTTM Expandable Wire Tray System, and cooler capable Clear Scan® label holders.
Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
If you think the WonderBar EWT is great, wait till you meet its big brother! Oversized just like some of your products, this weightlifter stays strong on both metal and open wire shelves and bar. One-piece installation means you can drop this bad boy right into place, adjust as needed, and watch the revenue increase. The EWT takes over from there, automatically feeding product to the front and billboarding merchandise for maximum visibility. Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
WonderBar Hooks
Containers Well Contained
Cooler Capable AMT®
Containers Well Contained
Containers Well Contained Cooler Capable AMT®
Cooler Capable AMT®
Cooler Capable AMT®
WonderBar® Displays are the versatile heroes of the Trion product family, coming to the rescue when you need muscle and good looks to merchandise items of all sizes. These Bar Hooks can lift heavy loads in their capable arms. Display or Scan, Saddle Mount or Plug in, there are Trion WonderBar Hooks for every need.
Neatly and effectively display cooler and freezer items, including yogurt, dips, puddings, ice cream, single-serve foods, and more. Our small Adjustable Merchandising Tray (AMT) fits a range of 4- to 6-ounce cups; the medium AMT organizes mid-range offerings; and the large AMT gives ice cream lovers pause to browse and choose a pint of their favorite flavor (hmmm why not get both Cherry Vanilla and Rocky Road?). This manual-feed tray ensures that products remain faced and accessible. Time to re-stock? Just lift out and refill. Add Clear Scan® Label Holder, and you’re finished!
WonderBar® EWTTM Large
The forecast is a cold cooler front when you use Trion’s Air Flow Baffle in coolers. Product temperature can be difficult to maintain at the front of a cooler. This Air Flow Baffle ensures that cold air is forced forward to keep items at their ideal temperature. Use as part of your cooler outfitting strategy, along with WonderBar ® Bar Merchandisers and hooks, EWTTM Expandable Wire Tray System, and cooler capable Clear Scan® label holders.
Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
If you think the WonderBar EWT is great, wait till you meet its big brother! Oversized just like some of your products, this weightlifter stays strong on both metal and open wire shelves and bar. One-piece installation means you can drop this bad boy right into place, adjust as needed, and watch the revenue increase. The EWT takes over from there, automatically feeding product to the front and billboarding merchandise for maximum visibility. Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
If you think the WonderBar EWT is great, wait till you meet its big brother! Oversized just like some of your products, this weightlifter stays strong on both metal and open wire shelves and bar. One-piece installation means you can drop this bad boy right into place, adjust as needed, and watch the revenue increase. The EWT takes over from there, automatically feeding product to the front and billboarding merchandise for maximum visibility. Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
If you think the WonderBar EWT is great, wait till you meet its big brother! Oversized just like some of your products, this weightlifter stays strong on both metal and open wire shelves and bar. One-piece installation means you can drop this bad boy right into place, adjust as needed, and watch the revenue increase. The EWT takes over from there, automatically feeding product to the front and billboarding merchandise for maximum visibility. Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
If you think the WonderBar EWT is great, wait till you meet its big brother! Oversized just like some of your products, this weightlifter stays strong on both metal and open wire shelves and bar. One-piece installation means you can drop this bad boy right into place, adjust as needed, and watch the revenue increase. The EWT takes over from there, automatically feeding product to the front and billboarding merchandise for maximum visibility. Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com Super Hooks!
Super Hooks!
Super Hooks! WonderBar® Hooks
Super Hooks! WonderBar® Hooks
WonderBar® Hooks
Containers Well Contained Cooler Capable AMT®
Neatly and effectively display cooler and freezer items, including yogurt, dips, puddings, ice cream, single-serve foods, and more. Our small Adjustable Merchandising Tray (AMT) fits a range of 4- to 6-ounce cups; the medium AMT organizes mid-range offerings; and the large AMT gives ice cream lovers pause to browse and choose a pint of their favorite flavor (hmmm why not get both Cherry Vanilla and Rocky Road?). This manual-feed tray ensures that products remain faced and accessible. Time to re-stock? Just lift out and refill. Add Clear Scan® Label Holder, and you’re finished! Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
Neatly and effectively display cooler and freezer items, including yogurt, dips, puddings, ice cream, single-serve foods, and more. Our small Adjustable Merchandising Tray (AMT) fits a range of 4- to 6-ounce cups; the medium AMT organizes mid-range offerings; and the large AMT gives ice cream lovers pause to browse and choose a pint of their favorite flavor (hmmm why not get both Cherry Vanilla and Rocky Road?). This manual-feed tray ensures that products remain faced and accessible. Time to re-stock? Just lift out and refill. Add Clear Scan® Label Holder, and you’re finished! Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
Neatly and effectively display cooler and freezer items, including yogurt, dips, puddings, ice cream, single-serve foods, and more. Our small Adjustable Merchandising Tray (AMT) fits a range of 4- to 6-ounce cups; the medium AMT organizes mid-range offerings; and the large AMT gives ice cream lovers pause to browse and choose a pint of their favorite flavor (hmmm why not get both Cherry Vanilla and Rocky Road?). This manual-feed tray ensures that products remain faced and accessible. Time to re-stock? Just lift out and refill. Add Clear Scan® Label Holder, and you’re finished! Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
WonderBar® Displays are the versatile heroes of the Trion product family, coming to the rescue when you need muscle and good looks to merchandise items of all sizes. These Bar Hooks can lift heavy loads in their capable arms. Display or Scan, Saddle Mount or Plug in, there are Trion WonderBar Hooks for every need.
WonderBar® Displays are the versatile heroes of the Trion product family, coming to the rescue when you need muscle and good looks to merchandise items of all sizes. These Bar Hooks can lift heavy loads in their capable arms. Display or Scan, Saddle Mount or Plug in, there are Trion WonderBar Hooks for every need.
WonderBar® Displays are the versatile heroes of the Trion product family, coming to the rescue when you need muscle and good looks to merchandise items of all sizes. These Bar Hooks can lift heavy loads in their capable arms. Display or Scan, Saddle Mount or Plug in, there are Trion WonderBar Hooks for every need.
WonderBar® Displays are the versatile heroes of the Trion product family, coming to the rescue when you need muscle and good looks to merchandise items of all sizes. These Bar Hooks can lift heavy loads in their capable arms. Display or Scan, Saddle Mount or Plug in, there are Trion WonderBar Hooks for every need.
WonderBar® Displays are the versatile heroes of the Trion product family, coming to the rescue when you need muscle and good looks to merchandise items of all sizes. These Bar Hooks can lift heavy loads in their capable arms. Display or Scan, Saddle Mount or Plug in, there are Trion WonderBar Hooks for every need.
Neatly and effectively display cooler and freezer items, including yogurt, dips, puddings, ice cream, single-serve foods, and more. Our small Adjustable Merchandising Tray (AMT) fits a range of 4- to 6-ounce cups; the medium AMT organizes mid-range offerings; and the large AMT gives ice cream lovers pause to browse and choose a pint of their favorite flavor (hmmm why not get both Cherry Vanilla and Rocky Road?). This manual-feed tray ensures that products remain faced and accessible. Time to re-stock? Just lift out and refill. Add Clear Scan® Label Holder, and you’re finished! Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
THE ART OF MERCHANDISIN
THE ART OF MERCHANDISING ®
THE ART OF MERCHANDISIN
THE ART OF MERCHANDISIN G
Create Your Own Merchandising Masterpiece with Trion Fixtures
Create Your Own Merchandising Masterpiece with Trion Fixtures
THE ART OF MERCHANDISIN G ®
THE ART OF MERCHANDISIN G
Create Your Own Merchandising Masterpiece with Trion Fixtures
Create Your Own Merchandising Masterpiece with Trion Fixtures
The Problem Solver Endless Baskets
The Problem Solver Endless Baskets
Cold Front Forecast Air F low Baffle
When Visibility is Your Goal Clear Acrylic Dividers
When Visibility is Your Goal Clear Acrylic Dividers
The Problem Solver Endless Baskets
The Problem Solver Endless Baskets
The number of products you can effectively, attractively merchandise in these baskets is, well, endless, as is the length and uses. Mount level or in gravity-feed mode from pegboard or slatwall, or place on shelves or table tops. Pair the baskets with hang tags, efficiently displaying both products and prices. Customize your baskets with handy dividers to create exactly the compartmentalization you need.
Z ip Track ® Merchandiser
When Visibility is Your Goal Clear Acrylic Dividers
The number of products you can effectively, attractively merchandise in these baskets is, well, endless, as is the length and uses. Mount level or in gravity-feed mode from pegboard or slatwall, or place on shelves or table tops. Pair the baskets with hang tags, efficiently displaying both products and prices. Customize your baskets with handy dividers to create exactly the compartmentalization you need.
The forecast is a cold cooler front when you use Trion’s Air Flow Baffle in coolers. Product temperature can be difficult to maintain at the front of a cooler. This Air Flow Baffle ensures that cold air is forced forward to keep items at their ideal temperature. Use as part of your cooler outfitting strategy, along with WonderBar ® Bar Merchandisers and hooks, EWTTM Expandable Wire Tray System, and cooler capable Clear Scan® label holders.
When Visibility is Your Goal Clear Acrylic Dividers
Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
The number of products you can effectively, attractively merchandise in these baskets is, well, endless, as is the length and uses. Mount level or in gravity-feed mode from pegboard or slatwall, or place on shelves or table tops. Pair the baskets with hang tags, efficiently displaying both products and prices. Customize your baskets with handy dividers to create exactly the compartmentalization you need.
The way to profits is clear when customers can spot and browse neatly displayed, upscale merchandise. Adjustable, multi-functional dividers allow you to customize depth and change the width of displays just as fast as new products are delivered. Sturdy, clear presentation keeps products looking their best, highlighting the colors, options, sizes, quality, and billboarding brands. Trion’s Clear Acrylic Divider Systems are among the best looking and adaptable merchandising systems. Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
The number of products you can effectively, attractively merchandise in these baskets is, well, endless, as is the length and uses. Mount level or in gravity-feed mode from pegboard or slatwall, or place on shelves or table tops. Pair the baskets with hang tags, efficiently displaying both products and prices. Customize your baskets with handy dividers to create exactly the compartmentalization you need.
Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
Use ZIP Track® storewide to organize various types of cleaning products, insect repellent and various other household items. It is the most versatile system of its kind on the market. Easy to install, ZIP Track® components clip on a front rail allowing lanes to adjust quickly, even when full or to add additional facings. Use actual product to set lane width from 2" up to 3 3/4 " Slide product front-to-back to “ZIP” each track together. ZIP Track® offers a wide range of adjustability for everevolving package designs.
Cooler Capable AMT®
Fast and Easy Attached-Back HooksTM
Fast and Easy Attached-Back HooksTM
speeding labor intensive projects. Because the hooks are already assembled, you can display merchandise as quickly as you can say “profits.” Once installed, these hooks come apart easily, making merchandising changes in tight displays fast and easy. Reinforced to host even heavy items, these hooks are available in standard, medium and heavy gauge frontwires with engineering grade plastic backplates to provide durable and attractive ways to keep your merchandise accessible.
The way to profits is clear when customers can spot and browse neatly displayed, upscale merchandise. Adjustable, multi-functional dividers allow you to customize depth and change the width of displays just as fast as new products are delivered. Sturdy, clear presentation keeps products looking their best, highlighting the colors, options, sizes, quality, and billboarding brands. Trion’s Clear Acrylic Divider Systems are among the best looking and adaptable merchandising systems. Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
If you think the WonderBar EWT is great, wait till you meet its big brother! Oversized just like some of your products, this weightlifter stays strong on both metal and open wire shelves and bar. One-piece installation means you can drop this bad boy right into place, adjust as needed, and watch the revenue increase. The EWT takes over from there, automatically feeding product to the front and billboarding merchandise for maximum visibility. Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
The way to profits is clear when customers can spot and browse neatly displayed, upscale merchandise. Adjustable, multi-functional dividers allow you to customize depth and change the width of displays just as fast as new products are delivered. Sturdy, clear presentation keeps products looking their best, highlighting the colors, options, sizes, quality, and billboarding brands. Trion’s Clear Acrylic Divider Systems are among the best looking and adaptable merchandising systems. Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
The way to profits is clear when customers can spot and browse neatly displayed, upscale merchandise. Adjustable, multi-functional dividers allow you to customize depth and change the width of displays just as fast as new products are delivered. Sturdy, clear presentation keeps products looking their best, highlighting the colors, options, sizes, quality, and billboarding brands. Trion’s Clear Acrylic Divider Systems are among the best looking and adaptable merchandising systems. Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
Extend Your Revenue Pegboard Extenders
Extend Your Revenue Pegboard Extenders
straight-entry hooks arrive already assembled – a dream come true for speeding labor intensive projects. Because the hooks are already assembled, you can display merchandise as quickly as you can say “profits.” Once installed, these hooks come apart easily, making merchandising changes in tight displays fast and easy. Reinforced to host even heavy items, these hooks are available in standard, medium and heavy gauge frontwires with engineering grade plastic backplates to provide durable and attractive ways to keep your merchandise accessible.
Neatly and effectively display cooler and freezer items, including yogurt, dips, puddings, ice cream, single-serve foods, and more. Our small Adjustable Merchandising Tray (AMT) fits a range of 4- to 6-ounce cups; the medium AMT organizes mid-range offerings; and the large AMT gives ice cream lovers pause to browse and choose a pint of their favorite flavor (hmmm why not get both Cherry Vanilla and Rocky Road?). This manual-feed tray ensures that products remain faced and accessible. Time to re-stock? Just lift out and refill. Add Clear Scan® Label Holder, and you’re finished! Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
Extend Your Revenue Pegboard Extenders
Extend Your Revenue Pegboard Extenders
Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
You read that right. These two-piece straight-entry hooks arrive already assembled – a dream come true for speeding labor intensive projects. Because the hooks are already assembled, you can display merchandise as quickly as you can say “profits.” Once installed, these hooks come apart easily, making merchandising changes in tight displays fast and easy. Reinforced to host even heavy items, these hooks are available in standard, medium and heavy gauge frontwires with engineering grade plastic backplates to provide durable and attractive ways to keep your merchandise accessible. Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
You read that right. These two-piece straight-entry hooks arrive already assembled – a dream come true for speeding labor intensive projects. Because the hooks are already assembled, you can display merchandise as quickly as you can say “profits.” Once installed, these hooks come apart easily, making merchandising changes in tight displays fast and easy. Reinforced to host even heavy items, these hooks are available in standard, medium and heavy gauge frontwires with engineering grade plastic backplates to provide durable and attractive ways to keep your merchandise accessible.
Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
Extend your opportunities to increase revenue with Trion’s pegboard extenders. Use them to layer display surfaces so you can simultaneously show tall and short items. Commonly used to merchandise mops, brooms, long handled tools and more, with cross sells and accessories directly in front. Pegboard extenders extend your merchandising reach.
WonderBar® Displays are the versatile heroes of the Trion product family, coming to the rescue when you need muscle and good looks to merchandise items of all sizes. These Bar Hooks can lift heavy loads in their capable arms. Display or Scan, Saddle Mount or Plug in, there are Trion WonderBar Hooks for every need.
Extend your opportunities to increase revenue with Trion’s pegboard extenders. Use them to layer display surfaces so you can simultaneously show tall and short items. Commonly used to merchandise mops, brooms, long handled tools and more, with cross sells and accessories directly in front. Pegboard extenders extend your merchandising reach.
Extend your opportunities to increase revenue with Trion’s pegboard extenders. Use them to layer display surfaces so you can simultaneously show tall and short items. Commonly used to merchandise mops, brooms, long handled tools and more, with cross sells and accessories directly in front. Pegboard extenders extend your merchandising reach.
Extend your opportunities to increase revenue with Trion’s pegboard extenders. Use them to layer display surfaces so you can simultaneously show tall and short items. Commonly used to merchandise mops, brooms, long handled tools and more, with cross sells and accessories directly in front. Pegboard extenders extend your merchandising reach.
Clean as a Whistle
THE ART OF MERCHANDISIN
THE ART OF MERCHANDISING
THE ART OF MERCHANDISIN
Create Your Own Merchandising Masterpiece with Trion Fixtures
Unlimited configuration
Unlimited Configuration Expandable Wire Tray™
Cold Front Forecast Air F low Baffle
Expandable Wire TrayTM
Oversize?
The forecast is a cold cooler front when you use Trion’s Air Flow Baffle in coolers. Product temperature can be difficult to maintain at the front of a cooler. This Air Flow Baffle ensures that cold air is forced forward to keep items at their ideal temperature. Use as part of your cooler outfitting strategy, along with WonderBar ® Bar Merchandisers and hooks, EWTTM Expandable Wire Tray System, and cooler capable Clear Scan® label holders.
Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
Product offerings come in different sizes, so it makes sense that displays should come in different sizes, too. That’s why Trion created the WonderBar ® Expandable Wire Tray System. We included every feature you would want if you created it yourself: powder-coated galvanized wire that stands up to harsh environments; adjustable width; easy custom configuration; rail mount and freestanding units; wire or clear acrylic product stops. EWT mounts on pegboard, slatwall, gondola shelf, table top and cooler.
Product offerings come in different sizes, so it makes sense that displays should come in different sizes, too. That’s why Trion created the WonderBar® Expandable Wire Tray System, aka EWT. We included every feature you would want if you created it yourself: powdercoated galvanized wire that stands up to harsh environments; adjustable width; easy custom configuration; rail mount and freestanding units; wire or clear acrylic product stops. EWT mounts on pegboard, slatwall, gondola shelf, table top and cooler.
Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
Announce Product Presence
Extruded Sign Holders
Announce Product Presence Extruded Sign Holders
Containers Well Contained Cooler Capable AMT®
Think of these extruded signs as a GPS for your retail setting. Quickly guide customers to the products they want and need with these versatile sign holders. Plan your customer’s routes, then slide in signs when you’re ready. Creative merchandisers might also use these sign holders for monthly or weekly specials, buy-one-get-one offers, specialized category definition (think gluten free, organic, fair trade, etc.), or promotion of in-store loyalty cards. A variety of mounting options are available including hooks, push pin, and foam tape. The opportunities for use are endless. Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
Think of these extruded signs as a GPS for your retail setting. Quickly guide customers to the products they want and need with these versatile sign holders. Plan your customer’s routes, then slide in signs when you’re ready. Creative merchandisers might also use these sign holders for monthly or weekly specials, buy-one-get-one offers, specialized category definition (think gluten free, organic, fair trade, etc.), or promotion of in-store loyalty cards. A variety of mounting options are available including hooks, push pin, and foam tape. The opportunities for use are endless. Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
Neatly and effectively display cooler and freezer items, including yogurt, dips, puddings, ice cream, single-serve foods, and more. Our small Adjustable Merchandising Tray (AMT) fits a range of 4- to 6-ounce cups; the medium AMT organizes mid-range offerings; and the large AMT gives ice cream lovers pause to browse and choose a pint of their favorite flavor (hmmm .. . why not get both Cherry Vanilla and Rocky Road?). This manual-feed tray ensures that products remain faced and accessible. Time to re-stock? Just lift out and refill. Add Clear Scan® Label Holder, and you’re finished! Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
Finish the Job Base Deck Fencing
Make an Appearance Z ip Track ® Merchandiser
Bin there, organized that! Trion’s deck fencing helps you bin small, large, bulk or packaged items while keeping them accessible to customers. Customize your display to create closed-front or open-front compartments using straight or offset front fence, then add our convenient labeling systems to finish the job right.
Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
If you think the WonderBar EWT is great, wait till you meet its big brother! Oversized just like some of your products, this weightlifter stays strong on both metal and open wire shelves and bar. One-piece installation means you can drop this bad boy right into place, adjust as needed, and watch the revenue increase. The EWT takes over from there, automatically feeding product to the front and billboarding merchandise for maximum visibility. Call 800-444-4665 | TrionOnline.com
Use ZIP Track ® storewide for neat and tidy health, beauty and wellness displays. This is the most versatile system of its kind on the market. Easy to install, ZIP Track® components clip on a front rail allowing lanes to adjust quickly, even when full or to add additional facings. Use actual product to set lane width from 2" up to 3 3/4 " Slide product front-to-back to “ZIP” each track together. Custom spring tensions and lane depths are available to fit any and all shelf and product needs. Manufactured from durable, modern plastics, ZIP Track® provides an extended merchandising life.
Yeah, We’ve Got That Slatwall Hooks
Hooks!
Yeah, We’ve Got That Slatwall
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Hooks
Let’s review your wish list of slatwall hook features: flat back plate base? Trion’s got it. Even load distribution? Check. Customizable with Clear Scan Labels? Yep. Flip-front or metal plate Label Holder, gotcha. Like your varied products, Trion’s Slatwall Hooks are offered in a range of standard, medium, heavy, and extra heavy gauges. Our hooks fit all industry standard slatwall slots, and many work with slot inserts. Call for a sample to check the fit with your design.
WonderBar® Displays are the versatile heroes of the Trion product family, coming to the rescue when you need muscle and good looks to merchandise items of all sizes. These Bar Hooks can lift heavy loads in their capable arms. Display or Scan, Saddle Mount or Plug in, there are Trion WonderBar Hooks for every need.
Let’s review your wish list of slatwall hook features: flat back plate base? Trion’s got it. Even load distribution? Check. Customizable with Clear Scan Labels? Yep. Flip-front or metal plate Label Holder, gotcha. Like your varied products, Trion’s Slatwall Hooks are offered in a range of standard, medium, heavy, and extra heavy gauges. Our hooks fit all industry standard slatwall slots, and many work with slot inserts. Call for a sample to check the fit with your design.
THE ART OF MERCHANDISING
THE AR T OF MERCHANDISING
Merchandising is more than fito ut and fixtures It’s the art of creating an attractive, well-organized retail presentation. As with any artistic composition, a wide variety of tools may be used to create your masterpiece. In retail Visual Merchandising, a gondola, pegboard, slatwall or shelf is your blank canvas When combined with tools such as d i splay h o o ks, label a n d s i gn hol d ers , bar merchandisers, tray systems, and merchandising accessories, there are endless ways to effectively display all kinds of products and inspire your target audience to make a purchase As one of the world’s top retail fixture manufacturers, Trion offers a generous supply of over 25,000 components and over 50 years of experience using them to execute precise planogram solutions, store designs and retail displays. Call us to turn your vision into an inspirational retail masterpiece.
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FDA Opens Door to Flavored Vapes, Resets Enforcement Goals
The FDA approves select flavored vape products and outlines its enforcement priorities.
David Spross • NATO
RECENTLY, THERE HAS BEEN activity both publicly and behind the scenes at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)’s Center for Tobacco Products.
A key development happened in early May when the FDA issued premarket tobacco product application (PMTA) marketing granted orders (MGOs) for four Glas vapor pods: Classic Menthol, Fresh Menthol, Gold (Mango) and Sapphire (Blueberry) — all with 5% nicotine content. These authorizations are the first for flavored vapor products. The FDA also recognized the Glas G2 technology, which includes Bluetooth-enabled device-level age verification and access controls. Additionally in March, FDA issued MGOs to the Glas G2 device and a Blonde Tobacco 5% pod. With these recent authorizations, the FDA has now issued MGOs for 45 vapor products.
While there are now only 45 vapor products that have received an MGO, authorizing the first flavored vapor products is a significant step towards expanding adult cigarette consumers’ choices of products that are recognized as less risky. Research continues to show that flavored vapor products and nicotine pouches can play an important role in helping adult smokers move away from combustible tobacco products.
Behind the scenes, there have been reports of disagreements between the
FDA and the White House Administration on the agency’s approach to tobacco and nicotine regulation. It is reported that the Administration favors a more science-based harm-reduction framework that recognizes the role authorized smoke-free products can play for adult smokers. Some in the FDA are concerned that authorizing flavored vapor and nicotine pouches might increase youth usage and negate the notable significant declines in youth usage of tobacco found in the recently published National Youth Tobacco Survey.
ENFORCEMENT PRIORITIES
On the enforcement front, the FDA finalized guidance entitled “Enforcement Priorities for Certain New Tobacco Products Marketed Without Premarket Authorization.” In the guidance, FDA does not intend to prioritize enforcement of the premarket authorization requirement for vapor and nicotine pouch products:
• That are subject to an application that is pending, and the application has been accepted for review, and the application is pending for more than 180 days; and
• For flavored vapor products, if FDA has determined that the application also includes data necessary to evaluate whether such product is appropriate for the protection of the public health.
Notably, the FDA has further indicated that, to promote transparency to consumers, retailers and other industry stakeholders, it intends to create and maintain a public-facing webpage identifying manufacturers and their associated products that the FDA generally does not intend to prioritize enforcement against as described earlier. The FDA will update the webpage on a rolling basis to reflect changes in manufacturer status, including the addition of manufacturers and products, and, where applicable, the removal of manufacturers and products that no longer qualify under this policy.
With all these developments, NATO (the National Association of Tobacco Outlets) will be hosting a conference with a special celebration to recognize its 25th anniversary. Included in the agenda are insights to FDA activity on tobacco and nicotine products, and invited presenters include leadership from FDA Center for Tobacco Products to provide an update on the agency’s work.
To learn more about the conference and to register, please visit: Natocentral.org/conference.
David Spross is the executive director of the National Association of Tobacco Outlets (NATO), a national retail trade association that represents 66,000 stores throughout the country.
WRAPS UP IN JACKSONVILLE
Small, mid-sized, family-owned and regional chains flocked to Florida for three days of networking, education and information exchanges.
A CStore Decisions Staff Report
THE CSTORE CONNECTIONS conference took place April 19–21 in Jacksonville, Fla., where c-store retailers gathered to network with peers, learn and share ideas.
On the opening day of the conference, attendees had the option to board a bus and tour some of Jacksonville’s local convenience stores, including Buc-ee’s, GATE, Wawa and RaceTrac. Upon return, the event officially kicked off with a welcome reception.
AI AT WORK
The second day of CStore Connections began with an opening general session. Titled “AI at Work: Transforming the Future of the Convenience Store,” it featured Amy Wood, director of enterprise IT for Friendly Express Inc.; Michael Salafia, CEO of Re-Up; Mike Wilson, chief operating officer of Cubby’s Inc.; and Scott Smith, VP of IT for Parker’s Kitchen. Erin Del Conte, editor-in-chief of CStore Decisions, moderated the panel. The panelists — from chains of different sizes — gave voice to the various applications of artificial intelligence (AI) in a c-store setting, including data analysis, out-ofstocks, security and more.
OPTIMIZING THE KITCHEN
The next general session was titled “Optimizing the Kitchen: Boosting
Foodservice Profitability While Managing Costs.” Jeremy Haack, director of food service at Kwik Trip; Mario Spina, owner and CEO of Parent Petroleum Inc.; and Beth Hoffer, VP at Weigel’s, comprised the panel. Del Conte moderated once more. Here, panelists touched on managing foodservice expenses without sacrificing quality. They covered effective pricing, efficient inventory management, commissary and self-distribution models, and maximizing labor efficiency. Transparency with and from vendors is important, the panelists agreed, to help manage costs. Being able to buy in bulk and self-distribute through a commissary, if you have one, is also a big advantage.
After the general sessions, attendees took a short networking break before coming together in small groups for the renowned Burning Issue Exchanges. The heart and soul of CStore Connections, the exchanges allowed attendees to pick a topic in which they were most interested and discuss it with a smaller group of peers.
New this year, breakout educational sessions on various topics from foodservice marketing to merchandising mastery to reimagining loyalty were held in the afternoon, along with another round of Burning Issue Exchanges, followed by the Retail Leaders Exchanges — discussion groups exclusively for retailers.
KEYNOTE ON CULTURE
At the end of the second day, attendees gathered to hear this year’s keynote session from Stinker Stores President and CEO Nate Brazier.
Stinker Stores, CStore Decisions’ 2025 Chain of the Year, currently operates 93 convenience stores across Idaho, Wyoming and Colorado. The chain is known for its people-first culture and its commitment to continuous improvement, which especially shines through its employees — the company’s No. 1 priority, according to Brazier.
Great companies, he said, are never built by one person — they’re built by teams (Stinkin’ awesome teams, in his own words).
When it comes to building company culture, Brazier noted, nothing happens by accident.
“Culture exists in every single company — the question is whether you’re intentionally building it or reacting to it,” he said.
Brazier mentioned that Stinker’s culture was built with intention every step of the way. And the results are clear — in 2025 alone, Stinker Stores improved employee tenure by 45% and reduced turnover by 37%.
“Great companies don’t leave culture to chance — they own it. And more importantly, they live it,” he said. “Culture
speaks before anyone says a word.”
Following the keynote, attendees had dinner on their own and then returned for an after-hours networking event in the Connections & Cocktails Lounge.
COMPETITION STRATEGIES
On Tuesday morning, the final day of the show, c-store professionals were greeted with a breakfast session that dove into the ever-changing tobacco category. Tony Battaglia, trade relations specialist for Philip Morris International U.S., shared how the landscape is shifting away from traditional cigarette sales and into new segments like modern oral nicotine and other tobacco products.
Following breakfast, a panel of retailer experts took the stage: David Barkett, director of retail operations, Triumph Energy; Glennie Bench, president and chief operating officer, Southwest Georgia Oil Co.; and Joe Hamza, chief operating officer, Nouria. The session was moderated by Del Conte. The panelists discussed competition in the c-store space in a session titled “C-Store Strategies in the Face of Changing Competition.” All panelists agreed that competition is not something to be afraid of; rather, it is the fuel that drives the industry forward.
FUTURE-PROOFING YOUR C-STORE
After that talk, another round of panelists took the stage in a session titled “The Future of Convenience & How to Future-Proof Your Chain.” Moderated by Greg Ehrlich, president, Beck Suppliers, speakers included Ashley Evans, fresh food and dispensed beverage manager, BP US Convenience & Mobility (ampm, Thorntons, TravelCenters of America); Tyler Grubbs, VP of retail & digital technologies, RaceTrac; and Jared Scheeler, CEO, The Hub Convenience Stores.
Each panelist represented a unique perspective — BP US Convenience & Mobility’s footprint extends across its ampm, Thorntons and TravelCenters of America banners, with more than 1,500 stores across the country. RaceTrac operates over 800 locations in the U.S., plus its recently acquired quick-service restaurant brand, Potbelly. The Hub Convenience Stores has five stores in
North Dakota.
Each panelist agreed that the future of convenience revolves around a few key developments, with AI leading the charge into the future.
Later on Tuesday, attendees got the chance to sit in on another round of breakout educational sessions, two more rounds of Burning Issue Exchanges with new topics, and a closing recap session led by CStore Decisions’ Del Conte and Beck Suppliers’ Ehrlich.
CLOSING CELEBRATION
Tuesday’s closing night reception celebrated CStore Decisions’ 2025 Class of 40 Under 40 Leaders to Watch. The 40 Under 40 Inductees who were in attendance were each awarded a special pin during the ceremony.
CStore Connections also celebrated longtime industry veteran Doug Galli and awarded him the Lifetime Award for Convenience Retailing, which is the event’s lifetime achievement award. Galli is the eighth recipient to receive this award, and he is retiring from The Reid Group and Crosby’s after more than 20 years. Galli has been an advocate for the retail community and served as the National Advisory Group board chairman from 2019–2021.
Lenny Smith, VP of Crosby’s, presented the award.
“Through his leadership, Crosby’s grew to over 80 stores. But, more importantly, he built structure that made the growth possible,” said Smith. “He built up the old organization; he established the merchandising and support teams — those things that we all dream about, to be able to create from the sandbox. That’s what Doug was able to do.”
Smith ended his remarks with this:
“It’s just not a company that he’s helped out. It’s truly a whole industry that he’s helped out.”
Galli accepted the award to a rousing standing ovation.
“Convenience retailing isn’t just about transactions. It’s about people, communities and the everyday connections that we make,” said Galli.
He noted his appreciation for Crosby’s and the Reid family, who fostered development among their employees.
“Over the years, I’ve seen this industry evolve in incredible ways. What hasn’t changed is at the heart of it, the commitment to serving customers and communities with consistency, care and innovation,” he said. “(...) It’s a privilege to be a part of the evolution.”
Doug Galli receives the Lifetime Award for Convenience Retailing. He stands with Lenny Smith, VP of Crosby’s, who presented him with the award, and Erin Del Conte, editor-in-chief of CStore Decisions. Galli is the eighth recipient to receive this award after more than 20 years with Crosby’s and tireless advocation for the c-store industry.
THE MODERN NICOTINE BALANCING ACT
Regulatory navigation, increasing innovation, price sensitivity and changing consumer behavior are testing merchandising decisions at the backbar.
Emily Boes • Senior Editor
CONVENIENCE RETAILERS have long managed the complex intersection of product innovation, regulatory pressure and evolving consumer preferences at the backbar. Now, the tobacco and nicotine category is facing market disruption and regulatory constraints at a level that requires strict observation and ever-sophisticated strategy. Particularly as the market varies greatly based on geography and core consumer, c-store operators cannot step back.
State and local policy decisions drive store-by-store adjustments as retailers stabilize the backbar, and an influx of offerings in a fragmented regulatory environment keeps retailers reassessing what earns space.
“What keeps me up at night isn’t the durability of the category so much as getting the balance right. Consumer behavior, pricing dynamics and regulation aren’t moving in sync, so staying disciplined requires constant recalibration,” said Tina Badger, category manager for CrossAmerica Partners LP, which operates 345 stores across 18 states.
“In a highly regulated, margin-sensitive environment, relatively small decisions around space, emphasis or execution can have an outsized impact, and those consequences don’t always show up immediately. The challenge is maintaining clarity and focus as the category evolves, without over or underreacting to any single signal.”
CATEGORY TRENDS
Overall tobacco performance is steady, with softer unit sales offset by surges in price. Still, “performance is highly market dependent and increasingly segmented by format,” Badger noted.
At CrossAmerica’s stores, traditional cigarettes anchor the category from a revenue standpoint, supported by disciplined price-tier management and strong brand loyalty, even as they face ongoing volume pressure.
Tina Badger, category manager for CrossAmerica Partners LP
“We continue to see a widening split in the cigarette category, (with) price-sensitive consumers trading into fourth-tier offerings while premium brands retain loyal customers who prioritize consistency and availability. Both tiers play distinct roles in sustaining category dollars and traffic,” said Badger.
Kalen Frese, director of merchandising and warehouse for Warrenton Oil Co., which operates 58 FastLane stores in Missouri, emphasized the importance of the fourth-tier brands. At FastLane, the lowpriced cigarettes are driving unit sales as high-priced brand sales dip.
The change in the profitability of premium brands highlights the marketdependent nature of the category.
Regardless, cigarettes remain predictable, Badger said, and play an important role in basket contribution.
Nationally, the cigarette category at c-stores is up 1.6% for Q1, reaching $11.1 billion, and down 4% in unit sales. Price per unit increased by 5.9%, according to market research firm Circana.
Cigars saw similar 12-week results through March 22, upping 1.7% in dollars and dipping 4.1% in unit sales while notching a 6% uptick in price per unit.
The segment remains dependable for CrossAmerica Partners, particularly value and premium offerings, supported by occasion-based purchasing and loyalty. At FastLane, however, cigars are slowly trending down. The chain plans to reduce selection in the future.
Throughout the country, large mass cigars take home the largest dollar share of category, with premium and little cigars carving out less than one-tenth of the segment.
As for vape, once a highly volatile category, it has since stabilized, although it’s down 5.8% in dollars and 14% in unit sales for the 12 weeks ending March 22, per Circana.
Kalen Frese, director of merchandising and warehouse for Warrenton Oil Co.
Growth is now driven by a smaller, more compliant assortment, rather than rapid SKU expansion, after years of disruption, Badger said.
“Where authorized products are clearly merchandised, results are more consistent,” she added.
Frese, too, noted that the segment is steady, with Food and Drug Administration (FDA) enforcement slowing the disposable market.
A win for flavored vapes, the FDA in May authorized four Glas vapor pods with 5% nicotine content, making these the first marketing authorizations for flavored vapor products.
Many more products are still waiting for marketing authorization, including still-trending oral nicotine pouches.
tendency for the big companies to make changes quickly are always on Frese’s mind as he considers tobacco.
“Seems like every time I get my planograms set, they change and want more space for this category, etc.,” he said.
CrossAmerica is also a witness to the hyper-growth of nicotine pouches.
These “continue to grow and be on fire,” said Frese. Promotions from the large companies, such as “buy two” deals, “buy a roll” deals, etc., are part of what is boosting nicotine pouch sales.
Still, the ever-shifting landscape and
Badger noted the surge is fueled by strong trial, repeat adoption and migration from cigarettes and traditional dip, delivering the strongest momentum in the tobacco category. Frese pointed out that more customers are moving to nicotine pouches from the smokeless segment, though, as it’s easier than switching from cigarettes. For those who are switching from cigarettes, price increases are playing a role in moving that behavior.
“(Nicotine pouches’) discreet, smokefree format and expanding strength and
Q1 TOBACCO DASHBOARD
Tobacco accessories led unit sales growth (+10.8%), followed by smokeless tobacco (+9%), while electronic smoking devices saw the greatest decline in units (-14%). Cigarettes were still heading the overall dollar sales count at $11.1 billion, due largely to a 5.9% price per unit uptick. Due to a 74.4% surge in price per unit for matches, the segment witnessed a 61.8% growth in dollars, despite a decrease in units (-7.2%), for the 12 weeks ending March 22.
Product
Source: Circana Total U.S. Convenience data for the 12 weeks ending March 22, 2026
flavor profiles continue to resonate with adult consumers seeking flexibility without leaving the category,” said Badger. Where assortments are clearly merchandised and compliant, she added, engagement remains strong and lifts overall category performance.
While modern oral nicotine is potent right now, traditional smokeless is “under structural pressure,” according to Badger.
“Traditional smokeless is more mixed — steady in select core markets but under pressure overall as its consumer base ages and usage occasions narrow. Results
in this segment are largely dictated by space rationalization, tighter SKU focus and disciplined pricing,” she added.
At FastLane stores, traditional smokeless is trending down. Nationwide, chewing tobacco sales decreased by 13.3% for the three months ending March 22,
per Circana. For the last month of that period, sales of chewing tobacco were down 15%.
As for cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabis, sales depend greatly on market dynamics and regulations. FastLane doesn’t carry these vapes or disposables, but it has enjoyed success from tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) seltzers. These are “seeing a lot of units and pulling from beer,” Frese said. Consumer behavior overall is lending itself to more poly-usage, Badger noted. Occasion, price sensitivity and regulatory access, more so than fixed brand loyalty, are driving fluidity among cigarettes,
modern oral and other formats.
“That behavior is reshaping how assortments are built, how value is communicated and how space is allocated at the backbar,” she said.
All in all, Badger continued, success in tobacco and nicotine is driven by intentional execution, “prioritizing clarity, compliance and localized decisionmaking to protect core cigarette and smokeless dollars while capturing growth in modern alternatives.”
REGULATION AT THE FOREFRONT
As one of the driving factors in backbar management, c-store operators are monitoring federal, state and local legislation extensively, even contacting their representatives and participating in outreach when necessary.
In Massachusetts, for example, some cities have implemented a generational nicotine ban, whereby anyone born on or after a certain date can never legally purchase nicotine products.
Brookline, Mass., was the first U.S. city to pass this mandate (in 2020), stipulating that tobacco and nicotine products cannot be sold to those born on or after Jan. 1, 2000.
Members of the New England Convenience Store and Energy Marketers Association (NECSEMA) challenged the ban, but it was judged constitutional and upheld in 2024, “because Massachusetts has unique Home Rule and gives wide
deference to towns,” said Peter Brennan, executive director of NECSEMA. “And we also have unique powers granted through various case law over the years to local health boards. So, in Brookline, they did it via town meeting.”
Since then, 21 additional towns have adopted tobacco-free generation laws.
A statewide bill was attempted this year, and, fortunately for nicotine users, it has not made it out of committee.
“We found that once we were organized and we were ready to deal with this, the best way to get people opposed to it was just to let them know what it actually does, because the advocates will claim this is to eliminate or reduce youth smoking, youth tobacco usage. That’s not what it does at all. It bans adults from purchasing legal nicotine products,” said Brennan.
In the meantime, should it pass, the illicit market grows, as do sales in neighboring states such as Rhode Island and New Hampshire.
Brennan noted this has been the case with flavored tobacco products, which Massachusetts banned in 2020.
“They’re still being consumed in Massachusetts. Massachusetts is just not receiving the excise tax money on that or the sales tax anymore, and Rhode Island and New Hampshire are very happy to receive that instead. So, the market shifts. … It just shifts the sales into the illicit market, across state lines; when it’s a municipal ban, then it just shifts it to the next town over,” he said.
As for the nicotine-free generation policies, activism on the part of NECSEMA, retailers and members of the public garnered a few wins, whereby some towns have rejected the policy.
The policy, beyond halting certain sales, also would affect point-of-sale systems, age verification systems and business valuation.
Even among Massachusetts cities that have not instituted the policy, merchandising nicotine given the statewide flavor ban has been frustrating, as what each town considers flavored is different.
“It’s almost impossible to keep up with,” Brennan said.
Massachusetts might be one of the most regulated states in the tobacco and nicotine space, but it is not the only one.
Peter Brennan, executive director of the New England Convenience Store and Energy Marketers Association
“State regulation has become a defining backdrop for the tobacco category,” said Badger. “Rather than episodic disruption, it now operates as a permanent environmental constraint — quietly but consistently influencing how the category is structured, how space is allocated and how portfolios evolve over time. The result is less about managing individual changes and more about navigating a long-term redefinition of what a viable tobacco set looks like.”
CrossAmerica stores are located in 18 states, including Massachusetts, obliging the chain to keep well abreast of statelevel legislation.
Other states in which the chain is located that have, at press time, introduced or taken action on a recent tobacco bill include Ohio, which introduced a bill that proposed modification to the regulation, registration, licensure, inspection and enforcement of electronic smoking, tobacco, nicotine and vapor product retailers; and New York, which introduced a bill requiring retailers to offer at least one nicotine replacement therapy product approved by the FDA and is undergoing budget negotiations for a wholesale tax on nicotine pouches, fee on vapor products and vapor product registry on which manufacturers must pay to be included.
Federally, the FDA revealed in May that it will not prioritize enforcement of vapor and nicotine pouch products marketed without authorization if there are certain pending applications and if, for flavored vapor products, the application includes data necessary to evaluate whether it’s appropriate for the protection of public health.
The FDA is still targeting illicit products, however, and this new enforcement guidance would not apply to products with elements that would appeal to youth or that have significant safety concerns.
The FDA intends to create a webpage identifying products that would be covered in the new guidance.
Additionally, the FDA removed the queue for applications pending Acceptance Review, allowing premarket tobacco product applications to almost immediately enter the first phase of application review, among other measures to establish greater efficiency in the review process.
THE MODERN-DAY SHOPPER
As convenience store operators continue to watch regulatory action, other factors such as innovation and loyalty must stay on the docket.
“Loyalty is also evolving. It’s shifting away from brand novelty and toward availability, trust and consistency, (which are) qualities consumers increasingly expect across both products and retail execution,” said Badger. “At the same time, social and digital channels are influencing discovery and perception more than ever. While direct marketing is limited, consumers are exposed to product awareness, education and peer validation through social platforms, reinforcing the importance of clear in-store communication that aligns with how shoppers are learning about and evaluating products.”
Tobacco and nicotine alternatives, such as caffeine and herbal pouches, are also entering the convenience retail environment.
Frese believes energy pouches are going to pick up steam.
“Not sure they will ever be on the backbar, but with the nicotine pouch segment making that delivery method more relevant, I see folks using the pouches for nicotine and for energy. And some at the same time,” he said.
In New England, Brennan noted these alternatives, including caffeine pouches, nicotine-free vapes and nootropics, are likely a small set at stores.
Still, Badger said, consumers are becoming more selective, and convenience, discretion and a sense of control over usage will shape behavior and accelerate interest in alternative formats that fit broader lifestyle and evolving use occasions.
“Looking ahead, innovation within nicotine pouches will play a meaningful role in that shift. Continued expansion in strength options, flavor profiles, delivery consistency and format clarity will lower barriers to trial and support repeat adoption among adult consumers seeking flexibility without complexity,” she added.
Innovation has certainly opened tobacco consumers to the idea of alternatives to traditional formats, although tried-and-true products still hold great appeal for many.
All in all, multiple factors are currently influencing the backbar, and tobacco retailers can look ahead to years of shifting sets as product popularity and adoptability change.
“Even with all that complexity, this feels like a genuinely dynamic moment for tobacco. There’s movement, experimentation and evolution happening across the category, and that creates a sense of momentum you don’t always get in mature spaces. For those who stay engaged and keep an open lens, it’s a category that continues to surprise, and that makes it an exciting one to be part of right now,” said Badger. CSD
Smokers’ Fourth-Tier Migration
Price pressures push cigarette customers to discount brands as cigar sales dip and tobacco accessory trends shift.
Erin Del Conte • Editor-in-Chief
AS CUSTOMERS REIN IN their spending due to economic pressures, retailers are seeing more cigarette shoppers trading down to fourth-tier brands or shifting to other tobacco segments.
Cigarette dollar sales in convenience stores rolled in flat (down 0.6%) at $50.7 billion for the 52 weeks ending March 22, with unit sales down 5.9% and price per unit up 5.7%, according to Total U.S. Convenience data from Chicago-based research firm Circana.
Retailers are seeing the trend play out at store level. At Cliff’s Local Market, with 22 stores throughout central New York, cigarette unit sales fell 3.98% in 2025.
“Customers are trading down or out of the combustible category altogether,” confirmed William Laraby, purchasing manager for the convenience store chain.
The only growth Cliff’s is seeing in the cigarette category is coming from fourth-tier products.
“For the first time in our company, total other tobacco product (OTP) gross margin has surpassed cigarette gross margin for the year ending 2025,” Laraby explained. “The majority of that was led by the new modern oral category.”
Meanwhile at Signal Food Stores, cigarette sales have seen double-digit growth since the chain dropped the EDLP (everyday low price) program last year, “however, all that growth is coming from the cheap, fourth-tier brands,” noted Sean Bumgarner, VP, Scrivener Oil Co. Inc. dba Signal Food Stores, which operates 13 locations in Missouri.
“People are looking for value and are trading down to fourth-tier or looking for deals or promos on their favorite brand of cigarettes,” Bumgarner said.
That said, the chain expects cigarette sales to be up in 2026.
CIGARETTES CONTINUE SLOW SLIDE
Cigarette dollar sales rolled in flat, buoyed by a rising price per unit, while unit sales dipped 5.9%.
Erin Slater, category manager, InConvenience Inc., which operates Gas Spot (with fuel) and Good Spot (without fuel) convenience stores, agreed. “Ongoing pricing pressure and inflation continue to drive heightened price sensitivity among consumers, and many are actively trading down into value and fourth-tier cigarettes. In response, we’ve had to position ourselves to be more competitive in this space.”
But even though the cigarette segment overall is experiencing volume
declines, InConvenience Inc. expects “relatively stable performance in 2026,” Slater said.
The woman-led convenience retail company opened in early 2024, and it currently operates 29 convenience stores in four states: Missouri, Iowa, Arkansas and Texas.
“As a newer operator, we are still in a growth phase and are seeing category gains as we build awareness, optimize assortment and establish our position in the market,” Slater added.
REVIVING CIGAR SALES
Cigar sales at c-stores came in flat (down 0.7%), totaling $4.09 billion for the 52 weeks ending March 22, according to Circana, with unit sales down 6%.
Dollar sales of large mass cigars were flat (0%) and down 5.3% in unit sales, while premium cigars fell 9.6% in dollar sales and dropped 19.1% in unit sales for the period. Little cigars faced the biggest declines, down 18.2% in dollar sales and 22.5% in unit sales.
Cigar sales are faring better at Cliff’s
Source: Circana Total U.S. Convenience data for the 52 weeks ending Feb. 22, 2026
CIGAR DOLLAR SALES FLAT WHILE UNIT SALES DECLINE
Little cigars saw the largest dollar sales (-18.2%) and unit sales (-22.5%) decreases for the 52 weeks ending March 22, per Circana.
Source: Circana Total U.S. Convenience data for the 52 weeks ending March 22, 2026
Local Market than they are nationally. Laraby reported that sales are up 1% in units, 7% in dollar sales and 9.7% in gross margin for 2025. A shift in strategy has been behind the boost.
“A couple years ago we reduced our cigar offerings and stopped bringing in every limited-time offering (LTO) under the sun, in part due to the New York State cigar tax,” he explained.
Instead, the chain focused on stocking the cigar products customers were routinely buying. The move paid off.
“We continue to see modest growth by focusing on the core items. When we were taking in all the LTOs and new items, we found stores were routinely out of the better-selling items as (we) tried to move through LTOs,” Laraby said.
Cliff’s still sells LTO cigars, but today the chain is more selective about which LTOs they bring in.
In 2026, individual small cigars, twopack cigarillos and flavored blunts are driving the most sales at Cliff’s.
“We have seen a 29% increase in Black & Mild singles and a 24% increase in BluntVille singles,” he said.
Meanwhile, in Missouri, Signal Food Stores has found the most success with flavored cigars and LTOs.
“Currently, our year-to-date volume for cigars is up slightly,” Bumgarner said, attributing that to the chain’s success with LTOs.
At InConvenience Inc., value remains a key driver for cigar shoppers, just like it is with cigarette customers.
“Consumers are increasingly seeking affordability, with multipack formats and price-promoted offerings outperforming,”
Slater said. “At the same time, the category is benefiting from demand for variety and flavor. As we continue to develop our assortment, we are focused on implementing manufacturer-supported programs to improve visibility, drive trial and better align with customer preferences.”
Flavored cigars are currently the primary growth driver within the chain’s cigar assortment, Slater said.
“Over the past year, we have expanded our authorized assortment to better meet customer demand, which has contributed to increased sales in this segment,” she added. “We continue to see opportunity in balancing flavor offerings with other key formats to support trial and repeat purchase.”
OPPORTUNITIES IN ACCESSORIES
Cliff’s has witnessed the tobacco accessories market shifting as tobacco trends change.
In 2025, for example, unit sales of rolling papers declined by 5%, while unit sales of pre-rolled, fillable cones rose by 29% — a trend likely driven by the legalization of cannabis in New York.
Meanwhile, at Signal Food Stores, “Lighters and rolling papers are doing great,” Bumgarner said.
Good Spot and Gas Spot stores offer a limited assortment of accessories currently, with rolling papers representing the primary item as the chain focuses on building the core tobacco categories, Slater explained. “As we expand, we see opportunity to drive incremental sales through a more comprehensive accessory set and improved merchandising to encourage add-on purchases.”
Gas Spot and Good Spot stores are playfully nicknamed “the G Spot,” a moniker the chain is leaning into because it’s both memorable and attention getting with customers.
Recently, the chain saw an opportunity to leverage its creative name to boost accessory sales and began selling branded lighters “with cheeky sayings,” explained Lindsay Griffith, marketing and community engagement manager for InConvenience Inc.
“The idea came from customers who asked for ‘G Spot lighters,’ and boy did we get them some memorable designs! Alicia LaFollette, our brand director, designed the lighters, and they certainly make an impression,” Griffith said.
Griffith did an analysis of the chain’s lighter sales, and out of 1,400 lighters sold in the last year, she found that some of the best-selling lighters consisted of two designs with popular logos.
CIGAR ACCESSORIES SURGE
Cigar accessories
Source: Circana Total U.S. Convenience data for the 52 weeks ending March 22, 2026
“We leaned into our cheeky branding with three single-color designs, pricing them below the logo-ed lighters, and giving them front and center placement on the displays. After only four weeks of sales, the branded lighters are our second-highest-selling brand. They’re definitely giving the other brands a run
for their money,” Griffith said. Upselling by store employees takes some of the credit.
“We hear consistently from employees that suggesting a lighter or matches when someone is buying combustibles is an easy basket builder,” Griffith said. “Employees have told me that they just
say, ‘Do you need a light for that?’ and customers realize that they do need a lighter or matches. I think the obvious connection to what it is being purchased, and that the suggestion is often appreciated by the customer, makes that question an easy go-to for basket building.” CSD
GOOD THINGS COME IN THREES
GAME® LEAF GIVES CUSTOMERS WHAT THEY WANT
In 2015 Game Leaf was introduced as part of the Garcia y Vega portfolio of cigars, revolutionizing the Rolled Leaf cigar category. Now, as part of our 10th anniversary celebration, we’re reintroducing Game Leaf with colorful, eye-catching, consumer-tested 3-cigar packaging designed to bring Rolled Leaf customers more of what they want.
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3 REASONS FOR 3-PACK SALES
In 2024, the 3-pack was the only Rolled Leaf format to show volume growth, along with a 5.7% increase in share of the market.
While all other Rolled Leaf formats showed velocity declines in 2024, the velocity for 3-packs rose by 15%.
Rolled Leaf 3-packs were added to shelves in over 9,700 c-stores in 2024, an 11% increase in store count over 2023.
3 REASONS TO GO WITH GAME LEAF
Game Leaf is able to build on the tremendous brand equity of Game, the #1 selling Natural Leaf cigar in the US.
Game Leaf’s commitment to quality and stringent quality standards—from broadleaf crop selection through manufacturing—ensure the best quality Rolled Leaf cigar available.
Consumers equate the Game Leaf brand with the Garcia y Vega tradition of quality and craftsmanship, as Garcia y Vega has been making Natural Leaf cigars since 1882.
Smokeless Surges as Vape Stalls
Retailers are keeping a close eye on the backbar as federal and state regulations loom and new smokeless products continue to take up market share.
Kevin McIntyre • Associate Editor
AS THE C-STORE TOBACCO category continues its move away from cigarettes and traditional smoking products, consumer demand is not leaving the channel — rather, it is shifting. In recent years, that shift has been funneled toward the vape segment. But in 2026, smokeless is the big winner.
“The smokeless category continues to experience strong growth,” said Alison Ritchie, president of the New York Association for Convenience Stores (NYACS). “According to industry partners, nicotine pouches are on track for another year of double-digit volume increases.”
The smokeless tobacco segment, according to recent 52-week data from market research firm Circana, saw a 13.1% increase in dollar sales in the c-store channel compared to last year and an 11.3% increase in unit sales. Vape dollar sales, on the other hand, dipped 6.4%, while unit sales took a 14% dive.
Traditional cigarettes still accounted for a category-leading $50.7 billion — a decrease of 0.6% compared to last year, with unit sales dipping 5.9%.
SMOKELESS SUCCESS
At Englefield Oil-owned Duchess convenience stores, which operates more than 100 stores across Ohio and West Virginia, Tobacco Category Manager Cal Honabarger noted that the company’s in-store sales are reflecting this shift away from traditional cigarettes to smokeless alternatives.
“We continue to see strong growth within the modern oral nicotine pouch segment, which aligns with broader industry trends,” said Honabarger. “Traditional smokeless tobacco continues to decline year over year, while the vape category appears to have stabilized compared to prior periods after several years of volatility. Overall, consumers are clearly gravitating toward alternative nicotine formats that offer convenience, variety and discreet usage.”
Salem, Ore.-based US Market, which operates 53 c-stores across Oregon, Washington, Utah, Idaho and Texas, is seeing similar results.
“We are seeing consumer demand shift toward modern alternatives, including vape and oral nicotine products,” said Amar Sidhu, director of business development, US Market. “Customers appear to be drawn to products that offer more variety in flavor, format and overall experience compared to traditional tobacco products. Modern oral nicotine products, especially pouch formats, have also gained significant traction due to convenience, discretion and broader flavor options.”
In east Tennessee, Powell, Tenn.-based Weigel’s is also seeing customer preferences shift towards modern alternatives.
“Vape continues to decline for us, traditional smokeless is flat and (nicotine pouches) are continuing to grow at double digits,” said Jessica Starnes, director of loyalty and tobacco category manager, Weigel’s, which operates more than 90 stores in the Volunteer state.
REGULATORY HURDLES
Looming in the background, as always, is the possibility of backbar shakeups caused by regulatory interference. On the vape front, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has been slowly working through premarket tobacco product applications (PMTAs), but today, only 45 products can be legally marketed in the U.S.
In December 2025, the agency announced it was aiming to streamline the process by opening up web-based submissions.
This change has led to measurable progress. In early May, the FDA announced a major milestone for the vape segment — the authorization of its first non-tobacco, non-menthol flavored pods from Los Angeles-based manufacturer Glas. The authorized pods included Mango and Blueberry varieties to be marketed as Gold and Sapphire, respectively.
The defining characteristic of the authorized vapes is the inclusion of age-gating technology, which the FDA believes will effectively curb potential underage usage.
“The FDA’s rigorous, scientific review of these products found that the applicant sufficiently demonstrated that Glas’ device access restriction technology, combined with FDA-required marketing restrictions, is expected to effectively mitigate the ability of youth to use the product,” the agency noted in its statement.
A pressing matter for the industry at large, however, is the illicit vapor marketplace. At NYACS, Ritchie noted that “the vapor category continues to be dominated by illicit disposable products.”
“In New York, Governor Kathy Hochul has proposed vapor enforcement, or directory-style legislation, as part of her budget,” said Ritchie. “While details have not yet been released publicly, NYACS remains hopeful that policymakers will take meaningful action to establish a fair and level playing field for retailers and wholesale partners while holding bad actors accountable for knowingly supplying illicit products to New Yorkers.”
Flavor bans have impacted in-store sales across numerous U.S. markets.
“Regulations continue to significantly influence assortment decisions, especially in stores impacted by flavor bans,” said Duchess’ Honabarger. “Locations operating under flavor bans generally generate lower sales volume because they lack the assortment many consumers want.”
US Market’s Sidhu mentioned that federal and state regulations play a major role in how the chain manages its category and product assortment.
“Compliance is a priority, and we are careful to ensure that any products we carry meet applicable regulatory standards,” he said. “We also work closely with trusted suppliers and industry partners to stay informed and make responsible assortment decisions.”
BUILDING THE BACKBAR
With state and federal regulations still largely up in the air, determining which products and SKUs to focus on becomes essential for retailers looking to maximize tobacco profits while staying in compliance. Keeping a close eye on the backbar and shifting preferences will be the key to unlocking tobacco success in 2026 and beyond.
“We closely monitor rate of sale, weeks of supply, productivity per facing and overall category trends when making assortment decisions,” said Honabarger. “Those metrics help determine where additional facings or brand extensions are warranted and where underperforming SKUs should be reduced or eliminated. In recent years, the pace of innovation within nicotine products has accelerated, so we’ve had to become more agile and datadriven in evaluating assortment changes.”
Agility, as Honabarger said, is the name of the game when it comes to backbar optimization. Retailers need to be adaptable and quick to pivot when regulations hit or consumer preferences
SPITLESS SHINES, DIP FALLS
Spitless tobacco dollar sales increased 29.5% as chewing tobacco fell 9.7%.
Source: Circana Total U.S. Convenience data for the 52 weeks ending March 22, 2026
inevitably shift, which is an occurrence that has become more common recently.
“Our process has become more disciplined in recent years,” said Sidhu. “We evaluate SKUs based on customer demand, compliance, brand reputation, supplier reliability, sales performance, margin and category balance. We also value long-term vendor partnerships and avoid adding products solely because they offer higher margins. Protecting the integrity of our stores and our customer trust remains the priority.”
POTENTIAL ROADBLOCKS
Looking ahead, the tobacco category will face scrutiny from a few different angles. As previously mentioned, the illicit market remains a key point of concern for both retailers and legislators and will likely inform many of the decisions made from a policy standpoint.
“The most pressing challenges for retailers remain the proliferation of illicit products and the impact of poorly structured legislative policies,” said NYACS’ Ritchie. “While segments such as vapor and nicotine pouches show strong growth potential, there is concern that policy decisions in Albany could hinder that progress.”
Weigel’s Starnes agreed, noting that “the largest issue is
illicit vapor in our trading area” in Tennessee.
But, that’s not the only concern. The rate of evolution and progression within the tobacco space continues to be a challenge for retailers looking to stay profitable and compliant.
“In addition to normal operational challenges, the rapid evolution of the nicotine category requires constant adjustment at the store level,” said Honabarger. “We are actively developing new planograms and resetting tobacco fixtures to better align with changing consumer trends and the growing importance of modern oral nicotine products.”
Sidhu said that the main challenges US Market is facing within the category now include theft prevention, returns, product verification, vendor management and ensuring proper documentation from distributors.
“We are focused on working only with reliable suppliers and maintaining compliance with all required certificates, distribution standards and legal requirements,” he said. “... A great deal of care goes into managing this category responsibly. While margins can be attractive, we believe it is important to be selective, compliant and brand conscious when deciding which products enter our stores. Long-term business reputation, customer trust and responsible retailing matter more than short-term margin opportunities.” CSD
VAPE SALES TAKE A HIT, ACCESSORIES BOOM
Vaping accessories saw a major uptick of 28.9% in dollars while the segment at large struggled.
Source: Circana Total U.S. Convenience data for the 52 weeks ending March 22, 2026
Forecasting Nicotine-Free Longevity
Functional wellness and traditional tobacco regulations are driving sales of tobacco-free and nicotine-free alternatives.
Emily Boes • Senior Editor
LIFESTYLE CHANGES, health trends and regulations of traditional tobacco products are persuading tobacco consumers to trial alternatives, such as tobacco-free and nicotine-free options. Historically, many of these have not been heavily regulated, although c-store retailers who carry them are watching the legislative landscape closely. Already, synthetic nicotine and zero-milligram nicotine e-liquids are under FDA authority. Still, the category is expanding, and innovation is appealing both to those looking for the sensory experience without the nicotine and those who simultaneously use traditional tobacco.
Wellness, regulations and price sensitivity are all fueling the category, according to Purchasing Manager of Cliff’s Local Market William Laraby. Cliff’s operates 22 stores in New York. State by state, regulations are playing the biggest role, followed closely by functional wellness, he said.
“I would say that this area definitely has long-term potential, depending on what some of the regulations end up being,” said Erin Slater, category manager for tobacco, foodservice and dispensed beverage at InConvenience Inc., which operates 29 stores in Missouri, Iowa, Arkansas and Texas under the brand names Gas Spot and Good Spot.
Laraby agreed, also noting the uncer tainty of regulations as a factor in the category’s long-term stamina. However, “I think functional wellness is here to stay,” he added.
Functional wellness certainly seems to be an immovable macro influence over consum er purchasing patterns. Beyond the scope of GLP-1 users, others are searching for added benefits in their beverages and snacks, and the lure of better-for-you hasn’t escaped the tobacco category.
When it comes to consumer trends and how we’re seeing wellness, Slater noted “better-for-you” is a trend that is broad and starting to move into the tobacco category. “We’re starting to see that with some of these alternative products to nicotine and consum ers thinking about them more in a better-foryou way,” she added.
InConvenience Inc. carries nicotine-free alternatives that are largely merchan dised within the tobacco racks, with some items in secondary placements. For instance, some tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) gummy products and kratom are in a separate display on the counter. The stores also carry cannabidiol (CBD) and hemp products, as well as nicotine-free options such as caffeine pouches.
REGULATION SHAKEUPS
Tobacco and related product regulations are certainly caus ing upheavals in the backbar. Whether due to flavor bans, tax increases or marketing restrictions, c-store operators must be ready to pivot immediately, all while battling further legislation that can often lead to a robust illicit market.
On the other side of that coin, legalization of certain products can influence the backbar, as well.
At Cliff’s, for instance, stores previously carried CBD vapes, tinctures and gummies, which fizzled quickly in sales once New York legalized THC. Now, the chain carries energy pouches with 50 milligrams of caffeine that are performing well, and Laraby is looking into higher-caffeinated brands.
In Arkansas, however, where InConvenience operates, recreational THC is not legal, and, in fact, many counties are dry. In Missouri, a bill was recently passed that prohibits c-stores from selling intoxicating hemp products starting Nov. 12. This aligns with a federal ban on most consumable hemp-derived products.
people to be more educated. And I think that’s the big hill that we have to climb for everyone to get on board to keep this, is just an educational standpoint,” said Amanda Lobes, category manager for InConvenience Inc.
In Iowa, a milligram regulation is in effect, disallowing the chain to carry certain brands whose products are over the THC milligram count.
“I’m coming back to (vendors) with that information, and they’re like, ‘That’s really great to know. We can probably concoct something to where we can get it lower and have that be able to go to these stores that do have those smaller limitations,’ which is great,” said Lobes.
Iowa also sent a bill to its governor expanding the definition of alternative nicotine products and vapor products to include nicotine analogs.
Louisiana, Delaware and New York are among states that have similar bills in motion or already passed.
Overall, many of these products have appeal and potential staying power, and the only reason they might not survive, Slater said, is regulation.
ASSESSING INNOVATION
For now, one of the best steps smaller to mid-sized retailers looking to add these products to their stores can take is educating their employees, who can in turn educate consumers.
“As consumers are more educated about these products, they’re
more willing to try and experiment and see where they do fit within their routines throughout their day,” said Slater.
Particularly as many of these fit within the broader wellness trend as an alternative to nicotine and tobacco, experimenting with products that might better accommodate someone’s lifestyle helps drive the trend to this category, as does price sensitivity.
Of course, education and experimentation are also important for the retailers, who need to know which products they should sell in their stores.
This is one of the biggest questions asked about tobacco and nicotine alternatives, as the influx of innovation often leads to overwhelm.
InConvenience typically assesses emerging brands through vendorsupplied samples, the company’s history, return policy, and the profitability of parallel categories and whether the new item would be complimentary or cannibalizing.
Convenience stores need to be proactive in their search for alternatives, especially if regulations are waiting in the wings to force retailers to remove something from the backbar.
InConvenience is selling kratom as one alternative, particularly while it waits to see where THC regulations land.
“It’s a product that we do carry, and
it could potentially fill a space for THC if that does go away from convenience stores, but (we need) to make sure that we are ahead of that, and the education is there, and that our employees understand the product and are able to talk to our consumers about it,” said Slater.
Retailers can start small as they consider tobacco-free and nicotine-free products, trialing one or two products to dip their toe into the category before expanding further if they choose. Products of similar format to the tobacco and nicotine items that are familiar, such as pouches or vapes, might serve as a comfort to customers as they experiment initially.
And often, stores see dual use cases, in which customers are purchasing tobacco and nicotine products as well as nicotine-free products. While these can be used as alternatives, it isn’t always one or the other. CSD
FAST FACTS:
• Functional wellness and regulations are driving customers to tobaccofree and nicotine-free alternatives.
• Education and experimentation are needed as retailers and customers alike learn more about emerging brands in the space.
Erin Slater, category manager for tobacco, foodservice and dispensed beverage at InConvenience Inc.
wednesday, august 19
12:00 - 4:00 PM
3:30 - 4:30 PM
4:30 - 6:00 PM
6:00 - 9:00 PM
thursday, august 20
7:30 - 8:30 AM
8:45 - 9:15 AM
9:15 - 10:00 AM
10:00 - 10:45 AM
10:45 - 11:15 AM
11:15 AM - 12:00 PM
12:00 - 1:00 PM
1:00 - 1:30 PM
1:30 - 2:00 PM
Exhibitor Set-up
Registration
Welcome Mixer
Dinner on Your Own
Networking Breakfast
Welcome to Chestnut Market
Behind the Curtain with Chestnut Market
Charging Ahead with Tech
Networking Break
Evolving with Foodervice
Networking Lunch
Burning Issue Exchange Roundtable #1*
Option #1: Shaping Company Culture as a Young Executive
Option #2: Riding the Wave of Change
Burning Issue Exchange Roundtable #2*
Option #1: Shaping Company Culture as a Young Executive
Option #2: Riding the Wave of Change
*For Roundtables: Attendees will break into two groups and spend 30 minutes engaging with one of two discussion groups. Later they'll get a chance to experience the second discussion group.
2:00 - 2:30 PM
2:30 - 3:30 PM
4:30 - 6:00 PM
friday, august 21
8:30 - 9:00 AM 9:00 AM - 1:30 PM
Networking Break
Keynote Session: Leadership in Motion
Networking Reception
Networking Breakfast
Chestnut Market's Facility Tour and Lunch
CStoreMomentum
To learn more please contact events@wtwhmedia.com
MANAGING FOODSERVICE COSTS: Why Execution and Consistency Matter More Than Ever
As prices continue to rise, foodservice operators must operate more effectively, from simplifying menus to upholding store-level accountability.
Mohammad Durwesh • Industry Leader
AFTER MORE THAN 20 YEARS running multiunit convenience stores and fuel operations, I’ve seen one thing become very clear, especially in today’s environment.
Most foodservice programs don’t fail because of bad ideas. They fail because operators lose control of execution at the store level. And right now, with margin pressure coming from every direction, that gap is becoming more expensive for operators.
On paper, most foodservice programs make sense. Vendors are aligned, pricing is structured and the expected margins look strong, but once those programs reach the store level, performance usually starts to vary by location. For example, one store executes well and drives strong results, while another struggles with consistency and a third starts losing margin within weeks.
While the program might be the same across all three sites, they’re seeing different outcomes. Why is this? Well, the difference comes down to execution.
Foodservice is one of the most operationally sensitive parts of the convenience store business. It depends on labor, routines and daily discipline. When
those are not consistent, costs start increasing quickly through waste, inefficiency and missing sales opportunities.
Labor is one of the biggest pressure points today. Stores are operating with tighter staffing, higher turnover and lessexperienced employees. At the same time, foodservice programs have become
more complex. Without simple, repeatable processes, execution becomes inconsistent and costs follow.
The operators who are managing foodservice costs effectively are not necessarily doing more. In many cases, they are actually doing less, but they’re doing it better.
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EXECUTING MORE EFFECTIVELY
So how are these c-store operators executing better?
1. They simplify the offer. Instead of expanding menus too quickly, they focus on core items that perform well and can be executed consistently. A smaller, well-executed menu will almost always outperform a larger one that is inconsistently delivered.
2. They standardize processes. Clear procedures around prep, holding times, portioning and waste control are critical. These are not one-time training items. They have to be reinforced daily at the store level. Consistency in process directly translates to control over cost.
3. They focus on labor efficiency. Successful operators align their foodservice programs with realistic staffing levels. They design workflows that can be executed during busy periods without breaking down. Overcomplicating operations leads to mistakes, and mistakes lead to higher costs.
4. They actively manage waste. Waste is one of the fastest ways margins
disappear. Operators who monitor waste closely, adjust production levels and train teams on portion control are able to protect margins even in a challenging environment.
5. They uphold store-level accountability. This is where the biggest difference is made. Programs do not manage themselves. Store managers must own execution. The most-successful operators regularly validate what is happening in stores, not just through reports, but by physically checking product quality and standards.
It is important to reiterate that artificial intelligence helps operations become smoother, which ultimately frees up staff to focus on hospitality and create great experiences that machines cannot replicate.
CONTROLLING THE CONTROLLABLE
Technology can support these efforts, but it cannot replace them. Systems can provide visibility into sales and margins, but they do not ensure consistency during a shift. Execution still depends on leadership inside the store and the discipline of the c-store team.
What has changed recently is that the
margin for error is much smaller. Rising costs, labor challenges and increased competition mean that average execution is no longer enough. Operators who do not actively manage execution at the store level will see their foodservice margins erode quickly.
The focus going forward has to be on controlling what can be controlled. Simple menus. Clear processes. Disciplined execution. Strong accountability. These are not new ideas, but they are more important now than ever.
Foodservice remains one of the biggest opportunities in the convenience store business. But it only delivers results when execution is consistent across every store, every day.
Mohammad Durwesh is a multiunit convenience store and fuel operations leader with 20-plus years of experience overseeing 30-plus locations across Texas, with full profit and loss responsibility and a focus on foodservice, pricing and operational execution. He specializes in driving profitability through disciplined store-level execution, scalable systems and operational consistency across large store networks. He can be reached at m_moamir@yahoo.com.
INSIDE LOOP’S RETAIL MEDIA PLAY
Loop’s Pervez
shares how Loop is betting on retail media to transform its c-stores into high-impact advertising channels.
Erin Del Conte • Editor-in-Chief
AT THE END OF LAST YEAR, California-based Loop Neighborhood Markets launched retail media network LoopMedia Connect, which allows brands to reach convenience store shoppers through a fully integrated program that spans Loop’s website, loyalty app, in-store digital screens, in-store radio, social media channels and TV screens
throughout the stores. LoopMedia Connect aspires to enhance the in-store experience for its c-store customers while driving measurable results for brand partners.
CStore Decisions caught up with Pervez Pir, president of retail at Vintners Distributors, where he leads the company’s flagship brands: Loop Neighborhood Markets and Poppy Markets. The company operates more than 130 convenience stores in California.
CStore Decisions (CSD): Loop Neighborhood Markets rolled out its own retail media network — LoopMedia Connect — in December 2025. How does it work and what does it include? Pervez Pir (PP): Our retail media is about working with vendors to bring promotions, giveaways and discounts to the customer via the Loop app, in-store TVs and radio. We have packages we offer to vendors based on their offer and exposure on digital media.
CSD: Why was the time right to launch a retail media network?
PP: The timing was right because we were having great success with our loyalty program (LoopBack Rewards). Our signups continue to grow, and app usage has also increased. In addition, we installed TVs in stores that were controllable via the corporate office. Before we moved the controls to the office, we were relying on a USB stick to update content.
Pervez Pir, president of retail at Vintners Distributors
Pir
CSD: What makes your network different from other convenience retail media platforms?
PP: I don’t think we have anything different from the competition when it comes to our digital vehicle. Our differentiator is our loyalty offers, targeting customers based on their buying patterns and habits, customizing the offers, and the ease of sign-up. These allow for greater adoption as well as sign-ups, which ultimately is favorable to the vendor. The vendors want to be on our platform as a result of this.
CSD: How does your media network tie into the in-store customer journey?
PP: We use our loyalty engine to give offers to the customer based on their buying habits and patterns. So, the offers aren’t generic for everyone, but specific to each.
CSD: For retailers just starting out, what’s the biggest misconception about retail media?
PP: The biggest misconception is that if you ask for funding from CPG (consumer packaged goods) companies for retail media that it is coming from the same place as your category managers negotiate from. There is retail media funding that is separate from what your team negotiates for monthly promotions and allowances.
CSD: What advice do you have for other c-stores interested in launching retail media? Are there certain steps they should take first?
PP: I would suggest having a dedicated person in your digital team or loyalty team work on this vs. your category
managers. Make sure you provide value to the vendor by sharing the results of the program with analytics, impressions and other metrics, which would make it compelling for the vendor to continue the partnership.
CSD: Now that LoopMedia is launched, what’s next? Are there plans to expand the program or launch something new?
PP: Yes, we would like to install digital screens at the pump to engage the customer outside. Additionally, we are already using texting at the pump to engage with the customer, but we need to increase the focus on this and do more here. CSD
A Bold New Playbook for Loss Prevention
Retailers are looking beyond reactive shrink responses toward a proactive, holistic risk management approach focused on overall store health.
Erin Del Conte • Editor-in-Chief
AS TECHNOLOGY ADVANCES and theft trends change, loss prevention (LP) best practices are getting an overhaul at convenience stores. Retailers and experts agree that we’re in the midst of a big shift in the c-store industry from the reactive LP of yesterday to a more modern proactive risk management approach.
“Convenience operators are no longer just responding to incidents; they’re investing in identifying patterns before loss occurs,” elaborated Khris Hamlin, VP of asset protection, Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA).
Wes Pate, VP, loss prevention & risk management, Refuel Operating Co. LLC, which operates 244 stores in South Carolina, North Carolina, Texas, Mississippi and Arkansas, is seeing this trend play out at store level, where LP practices are shifting from a security operation to, as he calls it, “a proactive business performance driver.”
“The practitioners who are generating the most executive support right now are the ones fluent in EBITDA contribution, trend analysis and cross-functional problem solving, not just case counts and recovery metrics,” Pate said. “What’s interesting is that organizations are beginning to recognize this, and LP professionals are being asked to carry more than just LP.”
For example, Pate leads not only the LP function at Refuel, but also the company’s Risk Management, Inventory & Audit and Sourcing & Value Optimization business units.
Khris Hamlin, VP of asset protection, RILA
“This is a unique and rewarding part of working at Refuel, and the industry is increasingly acknowledging that LP professionals are equipped to derive value well beyond the traditional LP scope,” he said, noting that staffing models and organizational charts at most c-store chains haven’t caught up to this shift yet.
CRIME EVOLUTION
One reason for the movement toward a proactive approach is that crime itself is changing. Organized retail crime (ORC), or professional, coordinated theft, is continuing to grow, and it’s appearing more frequently in smaller-format environments like c-stores, Hamlin noted.
“These aren’t always large-scale grab-and-go events; they’re often repeat, targeted thefts focused on highmargin, easy-to-resell items like tobacco, over-the-counter medications and energy products,” Hamlin said. “Teams are being asked to manage not just shrink but also employee safety, customer incidents and broader operational risk.”
C-stores are also experiencing crime that is more calcu lated and repeated as opposed to the opportunistic theft of years past.
“Offenders are learning store routines, shift changes, staffing gaps, delivery windows and exploiting those moments,” Hamlin said. “There’s also an increase in ‘low-dollar, high-frequency’ theft, where individuals intentionally stay under prosecution thresholds but create significant loss over time.”
Pate agreed that on the merchandise side of the business, theft is becoming more calculated, with thieves showing a familiarity with store layouts, camera positioning and associate blind spots.
Hamlin noted it’s also more common to see small groups of thieves working together, with one person distracting employees while another shoplifts.
“In some cases, these activities are being organized or influenced through online channels, which accelerates how quickly tactics spread,” Hamlin said. “Retailers are also seeing more brazenness. The perceived lack of consequences in some jurisdictions has changed behavior, and retailers are feeling that on the front lines.”
David Johnston, VP, asset protection & retail operations, National Retail Federation, is also observing these trends. In addition, he pointed to a rise in fuel theft, payment fraud and phone-based scams “that manipulate employees into surrendering cash or access to sensitive information.”
“The common thread is exploitation of speed, trust and operational gaps — making awareness and pattern recognition more critical than ever,” Johnston said.
Fuel theft is where Refuel is seeing the most significant external loss. “Merchandise theft, while present, is far outpaced by fuel-related loss,” Pate explained. “The sophistication we are seeing in the manipulation of the pumps to get fuel, and the means these groups have to traffic this product, is concerning.”
A HOLISTIC APPROACH
An emerging trend in LP is a focus on total retail loss, Johnston said, adding that it’s “a more holistic, data-driven view of shrink that goes beyond traditional LP metrics.”
“Rather than focusing only on internal and external theft, operators are measuring and managing losses associated with prepared food waste, overproduction, poor forecasting and execution gaps,” Johnston said. “The goal is to identify where loss occurs across the entire store and to align people, process and planning to protect margin and drive stronger performance.”
Pate is also observing a shift toward looking beyond shrink and focusing on overall store health.
“The convenience store industry has historically measured loss through a shrink lens: merchandise inventory variance (with) some food waste layered in when operators were being thorough, etc. We’ve moved past that framing entirely,” Pate said.
Refuel is focusing on net store health, which “encompasses every dollar leaving a store that shouldn’t,” he said. That means looking at merchandise shrink, fuel variance, food waste, cash-handling losses, damages and operational inefficiency.
“When you look at the full picture, the opportunity to improve store profitability is significantly larger than shrink alone,” Pate said.
In other words, it’s breaking down each loss category independently to uncover potential issues.
“Audit adjustment shrink and spoilage shrink have entirely different root causes and entirely different playbooks. Fuel variance and cash loss require different disciplines than
Wes Pate, VP, loss prevention & risk management, Refuel Operating Co. LLC
merchandise. When you manage net store health as a unified concept but diagnose its components separately, you stop chasing a blended number and start making meaningful improvements to store-level profitability,” Pate said.
TECHNOLOGY TRANSFORMING LP
The c-store industry has evolved its use of technology in LP from “associates watching live cameras to exceptionbased reporting and remote monitoring,” Pate noted.
“What we’re deploying now is the next iteration: artificial intelligence (AI) layered on top of that exception infrastructure,” Pate explained. “Our current platform uses AI to analyze flagged transactions and corresponding video together, surfacing confirmed cases at a throughput that would be difficult to replicate manually. The time between a flag and a confirmed actionable case has compressed dramatically.”
Refuel is monitoring the evolution of LP technology because it’s changing at a rapid pace and the changes have implications for team structure and resources.
Johnston sees technology helping cstores make the transition from “reactive investigation to proactive prevention.”
“AI-driven cameras and advanced analytics shift the focus from what happened to why loss occurs, uncovering behavioral patterns and operational blind spots in real time,” he noted. “This insight enables operators to intervene when repeat behaviors emerge and close process gaps earlier, reducing risk without adding friction or disrupting the business.”
Hamlin concurred that today, AIenabled video gives retailers the ability to identify behaviors as opposed to just incidents. “That means recognizing things
David Johnston, VP of asset protection & retail operations, National Retail Federation
like concealment, repeat offenders or suspicious movement patterns. It’s allowing teams to intervene earlier and more consistently, even without dedicated security personnel within the store.”
On the point-of-sale side of the business, advanced analytics are also helping c-stores find internal and external “risk patterns” much faster, Hamlin added.
“Instead of looking at reports after the fact, retail asset protection teams can now flag anomalies, like refund abuse, sweethearting or unusual transaction patterns, as they happen,” he said.
Refuel is pairing transaction analytics with automated video retrieval. “When a transaction meets defined risk thresholds, corresponding video is surfaced automatically rather than requiring manual search,” Pate said. “That exceptionbased model replaced live monitoring as the industry standard for good reason: it directs human attention where the data indicates it belongs.”
Now, Refuel is actively adding an AI layer to that strategy. “Our current platform applies AI to analyze flagged transactions and video together, compressing investigation time significantly and allowing a lean team to operate at a scale that simply wasn’t possible with manual review,” Pate said.
“There are so many ways that LP can help unlock the power of Vision AI and other use cases for our operational, food, merchandising, IT and all other business partners, as well, “ he added.
The technology available for LP is continuing to advance rapidly. Pate pointed to AI-powered cameras with license plate recognition in parking lots as an emerging tool to watch.
“Systems can now maintain watchlists of vehicles associated with prior incidents and generate real-time alerts when a flagged vehicle enters a property, shifting the security posture from reactive documentation to proactive intervention,” Pate explained. “In a fuel environment specifically, where the vehicle is the instrument of theft, that capability is particularly relevant.”
Drone-based surveillance has also entered early conversation, Pate pointed out. And platforms are beginning to provide autonomous aerial monitoring for large-format parking lots.
“We’re watching all of these technological programs closely while also watching operational and regulatory space, as those are still evolving. However, the directional capability is real,” Pate said. “The honest answer is that the technology is outpacing most LP programs’ ability to absorb and operationalize it. Staying current requires deliberate investment in tools and in the internal capability to use them well.”
One of the biggest opportunities for cstores currently is to form collaborations with law enforcement and prosecutors.
“When those three groups are aligned, we move from isolated incidents to building stronger, prosecutable cases that actually address repeat offenders and organized activity,” RILA’s Hamlin said. RILA is also seeing momentum behind crime-linking technology.
“The ability to connect incidents across locations, identify repeat patterns and package that intelligence in a way that law enforcement and prosecutors can act on is a game changer. It gives retailers a much stronger position, not just to report crime, but to help drive meaningful outcomes,” Hamlin said. “At the end of the day, this isn’t just about reducing shrink. It’s about creating safer environments for employees and customers and building a system where accountability is consistent.”
Pate finds it refreshing that the c-store industry is starting to recognize the “breadth of capability that strong LP professionals bring.”
“The skills that make someone effective in loss prevention, (such as) analytical rigor, cross-functional influence, risk quantification, operational discipline, all translate directly into adjacent functions like risk management, inventory control, procurement and compliance,” Pate said. “The best practitioners aren’t just LP professionals anymore; they’re operational leaders who happen to have come up through LP. I’m proud to be an example of that evolution, and I expect we’ll see more of it as the function continues to mature.” CSD
CStore Decisions is proud to announce Toot’n Totum as its 2026 Chain of the Year. With over 75 years in business and 125 locations in Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas and New Mexico, Toot’n Totum continues to grow and adapt while remaining deeply rooted in local values.
The Amarillo, Texas-based chain stands out for its people-first culture; commitment to tech innovation and vertical integration; its strong proprietary foodservice, grab-and-go and commissary program; and its stateof-the-art new-to-industry stores and focus on continued internal growth and footprint expansion.
CStore Decisions’ Chain of the Year Award honors a c-store, travel center or petroleum chain that has established itself as a superior retailer and innovator in the industry.
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Classifieds/Ad Index
Smart Shelf Strategy
Tiger Fuel’s The Market uses its smaller size to its advantage as it localizes its merchandising method to each store’s customer base.
Emily Boes • Senior Editor
AS TRENDS SHIFT, optimizing your merchandising strategy is increasingly important to providing for your customers and remaining shrewd amongst ever-abundant innovation. CStore Decisions reached out to Bryce Proffitt, retail merchandising manager for Tiger Fuel Co.’s The Market, which operates 10 stores in Virginia, for his take on upping your merchandising game.
{CStore Decisions (CSD)} How are you elevating your merchandising strategy?
{Bryce Proffitt (BP)} For The Market, the way that we’re trying to focus on it is going store by store, listening to our customers’ insight and each store team’s feedback and perspective. With having 10 stores, we have a really unique opportunity to home in on the customer base at each store a little bit more and offer them what they want rather than having either a national planogram or a regional planogram. Since we are a mid-sized local chain, it gives us an opportunity to elevate through customer perspective.
{CSD} How do you merchandise the store around foodservice operations?
{BP} Foodservice is the focal point of the store. If you’re doing foodservice well, it should be the focal point, and the ideal for us … is to try to work together to where we’re not only making that a focal point, but giving offerings in that section — whether it’s in the cold case or in the hot case or at the hot bar — that might
pair well with the menu items we have or with the grab-and-go items that we have.
{CSD} Do local brands play a role in your merchandising strategy?
{BP} Absolutely. We have worked with our incredible marketing department on our Made in Virginia section. We have a lot of brands that are locally made in Virginia. There are four in particular that we’ve partnered with that do really well in our stores. … Marketing has made these little shelf-talkers for the stores to put in our cold case, so we have an entire section in our cold case devoted to these Made in Virginia products. … It gives us an opportunity as the smaller local brand to focus in on those brands, as well. …
{CSD} Where do things break down, and how do you resolve them?
{BP} The biggest breakdown in our merchandising strategy, and I think this is going to be an issue for everyone, is that bottom foot-and-a-half. We have a lot of dead items in there that we try to rotate out. Stagnant end caps. Sometimes you get an end cap that’s had the same thing on it for six months, and customers get bored with it. It’s not exciting anymore. ... We do a hard reset once a year in every category, and then we’ll do soft resets throughout the year. And within that, we give our store managers a little bit of room to play with that soft reset. If they see that there’s something that could be moving better if it were
up in a better position, they have the freedom and the will to do that. I know with some of the larger chains, it’s a little bit more difficult, because it can get messy doing that. For us, though, we really want to make sure that everything is just getting moved around. Not make it confusing for customers but giving each product its opportunity to shine within the actual set.
{CSD} How do you use data at the shelf level to refine your merchandising?
{BP} The big thing for me — (at a) small, mid-sized, local chain — I’m looking at sales data, different trends in the industry, using that to understand what is best for us to have on the shelves, what’s making money and what people are wanting right now but also going into the data that is not quantifiable, that you can’t pull a report on. Getting information from our store managers, from our store associates, from our customers, getting that feedback of, ‘Oh, this would be a cool product to see in there,’ and hearing customers say that multiple times or hearing a couple different customers come in and tell a store associate, ‘Yeah, I’d love to have this beer in here. I’d love to have this soda in here. That would be awesome if I could pick that up,’ and then acting on that. We use the same data that everybody else uses, but we’re also digging into the customers’ (feedback) and into that small, midsized, local chain (advantage).
Bryce Proffitt, retail merchandising manager for The Market
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