Convenience Matters artwork

Convenience Matters

451 episodes - English - Latest episode: 14 days ago - ★★★★★ - 25 ratings

Whether it’s for food, fuel, drinks or snacks — about half of the U.S. population is at a convenience store every day. We sell 80% of the country’s fuel and we are 4% of the total U.S. economy. We’ll talk about what we see at stores — and what the future may hold — as long as it’s convenient.

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Episodes

U.S. Convenience Stores Saw Record Sales in 2022 - Episode 386

May 01, 2023 04:00 - 28 minutes - 26.7 MB

Foodservice and inside sales helped propel convenience stores to record sales in 2022. We're giving you exclusive insights on what drove the industry's strong performance and the headwinds going forward. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard and Chrissy Blasinsky About our Guest: Chris Rapanick, Managing Director, NACS Research Chris oversees the day-to-day operations of NACS Research, manages and directs departmental financial and operational performance, and drives strategic development of NACS...

C-Store Sales Trends Across the Globe in 2022 - Episode 385

April 24, 2023 04:00 - 23 minutes - 22.3 MB

There are more than 1 million convenience stores across the globe. Here's a look at sales trends in 2022 across 5 global regions and the underlying causes. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard  About our Guest: Jason Zelinski, Client Director, Convenience and Growth Accounts, NIQ Jason leads strategic planning, end-to-end client engagement, revenue management and, most importantly, client satisfaction of the largest convenience retailers in the United States.

A Smaller Operator Who Thinks Big - Episode 384

April 17, 2023 04:00 - 27 minutes - 25.7 MB

From locally sourced products to EV charging, 36 Lyn Refuel Station in Minneapolis makes a positive difference in its community. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard and Chrissy Blasinsky About our Guest: Lonnie McQuirter, Director of Operations, 36 Lyn Refuel Station Lonnie operates 36 Lyn Refuel Station, an independently owned, community-focused refueling station in Minneapolis. He is a member of the NACS Board of Directors.

Exploring Exceptional Community Stores and Their Food - Episode 383

April 10, 2023 04:00 - 23 minutes - 21.9 MB

South Louisiana is one of the best areas in the United States to find amazing food and people at the gas station. We'll talk about what we saw and ate during a recent road trip. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard and Chrissy Blasinsky About our Guest: Stafford Shurden, creator and host of “Tailgate Gas Station Review" A “serial entrepreneur,” Stafford currently is a farmer (president of Stafford Shurden Farms), restauranteur (proprietor of Stafford’s on Main) and oversees a media company (foun...

New Consumer Research Shows Retail Opportunities - Episode 382

April 03, 2023 04:00 - 27 minutes - 25.7 MB

For nearly two decades, NACS has surveyed consumers to gain their insights on convenience stores, gasoline prices and the economy. This year’s results show a lot of angst, but there are opportunities for retailers to engage their customers. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Adam Rosenblatt, Founding Partner, Bold Decision Adam is one of the nation’s leading political consultants sought after for effective research-based strategies and messaging. He designs and executes cuttin...

Your Comfort Zone Is Not Your Friend - Episode 381

March 27, 2023 04:00 - 25 minutes - 23.7 MB

“Good is the enemy of great” is a phrase many have heard, but can the same be said about comfort? Is it the enemy of progress and success? Hosted by: Jeff Lenard  About our Guest: Sterling Hawkins, Founder, Sterling Hawkins Group Sterling is an internationally recognized thought leader and is a top-rated keynote speaker on the #NoMatterWhat approach to driving growth innovation and results, regardless of what’s happening in the world.

The Most Common UST Violation Is Not a Leak - Episode 380

March 20, 2023 04:00 - 25 minutes - 23.4 MB

Fuel releases from underground storage tanks (UST) don’t rank among the most common causes of UST compliance violations. Oftentimes, it's improper paperwork that can lead to fines and negative publicity. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard and John Eichberger About our Guest: Clay Moore, Senior Director of Product, Leighton O'Brien Clay has more than 30 years of experience in software development, including 13 years in the downstream petroleum industry.

Find Your Strengths - Episode 379

March 13, 2023 04:00 - 26 minutes - 24.3 MB

Martial arts legend Renzo Gracie famously said, “My ego is my enemy, and my opponent is my teacher.” We’re exploring how his words and martial arts translate to running a successful business. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard and Chrissy Blasinsky About our Guest: Lisa Dell’Alba, President and CEO of Square One Markets Inc. Lisa is president and CEO of Square One Markets Inc., a family owned, seven-store convenience and fuel retail chain based in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. The company also oper...

Get Inspired—and Be Inspiring - Episode 378

March 06, 2023 05:00 - 23 minutes - 21.7 MB

Today’s workforce is feeling less inspired than ever before. With only 21% of employees actually engaged with their work, we're exploring why people have checked out mentally on the job. Related Links: ADDO Hosted by: Jeff Lenard and Chrissy Blasinsky About our Guests: Kevin Paul Scott, Co-Founder, ADDO Worldwide Kevin co-founded the leadership consultancy ADDO, which is Latin for "Inspire." For multiple years, ADDO was the #1 Small Business on the Best Places to Work list in A...

Reshaping the Conversation About Fuels - Episode 377

February 27, 2023 05:00 - 25 minutes - 24.2 MB

If it powers a vehicle, the Fuels Institute researches it, reports on it and gives the facts to industry stakeholders, including legislators. Hear how the Fuels Institute has changed the transportation fuels narrative during the past decade. Related Links: Fuels Institute Hosted by: Jeff Lenard  About our Guest: John Eichberger, Executive Director, Fuels Institute John leads the Fuels Institute, a nonprofit, independent think tank founded in 2013 and managed by NACS. Prior to t...

How Wakepoint LBJ Personifies Food, Fuel and Fun - Episode 376

February 20, 2023 05:00 - 28 minutes - 26.7 MB

Whether customers come to Wakepoint LBJ by car or boat, this convenience store is a destination for enjoying live music, festivals or Sunday gospel services. Related Links: Ideas 2 Go: Wakepoint LBJ Hosted by: Jeff Lenard  About our Guests: Scott Westlund, Owner, Wakepoint LBJ Scott is the owner of Wakepoint LBJ, a sprawling business operation on Lake LBJ that includes two convenience stores, foodservice and fueling—among other offers. He also is a managing partner and accredit...

Biden's State of the Union and Convenience Stores - Episode 375

February 13, 2023 05:00 - 21 minutes - 20 MB

Each year the annual State of the Union address sets the stage for the next Congress. From electric vehicles to "junk" taxes, President Biden laid out his agenda. How will it affect convenience stores? Hosted by: Jeff Lenard and Chrissy Blasinsky About our Guest: Doug Kantor, General Counsel, NACS Doug joined NACS in May 2021 after serving as a partner at Steptoe & Johnson LLP, where he worked with the NACS government relations team to define effective policy-based solutions on iss...

The Value of Your Store Manager - Episode 374

February 06, 2023 05:00 - 26 minutes - 24.7 MB

Store managers have a significant impact on hiring and retaining great people. Hear how one retailer is coaching her team so they can be at their best. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard and Chris Blasinsky About our Guest: Annie Gauthier, CFO/Co-CEO of St. Romain Oil Company Annie is CFO/Co-CEO of St. Romain Oil Company (dba Y-Not Stop), based in Mansura, Louisiana. A third-generation co-owner, she works with her two brothers and 300-plus team members to refuel and refresh the Louisiana commu...

Big Trends That Could Redefine Retail - Episode 373

January 30, 2023 05:00 - 26 minutes - 24.3 MB

As we kick off 2023, we're looking at emerging retail and consumer trends and ideas that convenience stores can take advantage of. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guests: Anne-Marie Roerink, Principal, 210 Analytics LLC Anne-Marie is principal and founder of 210 Analytics, where she specializes in quantitative and qualitative market research. She previously held research positions with the Food Marketing Institute, Green Charge Network and the American Society of Travel Agents.

How C-Stores Fight Human Trafficking - Episode 372

January 23, 2023 05:00 - 24 minutes - 22.2 MB

Human trafficking happens every day and affects every community in the United States. More than 30,000 convenience stores have taken on this issue in their stores. Here's how you can join them and make a difference in your community. Related Links: Convenience Stores Against Trafficking Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Cheryl Csiky, Executive Director, IN OUR BACKYARD Cheryl has been a leader in the fight against human trafficking since 2011. She is the executive directo...

ATMs: Opportunities and Threats - Episode 371

January 16, 2023 05:00 - 25 minutes - 23.7 MB

Roughly one third of all ATMs in the United States are in convenience stores. Although ATMs offer easy access to cash and financial transactions, they can be an easy target for criminals. We're discussing how you can grow and protect your business. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: David Tente, Executive Director, USA, Canada & Americas, ATMIA (the ATM Industry Association) David serves as the ATM industry’s evangelist. He has spent the past three decades in the industry and ...

Transportation Trends We're Watching - Episode 370

January 09, 2023 05:00 - 28 minutes - 26.4 MB

2022 saw gas prices top $5 and dip to under $3, driven by some factors that are still affecting the market. This year's transportation trends are lining up to affect the car you drive, how you use it and how you refuel (or recharge) it. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: John Eichberger, Executive Director, Fuels Institute John leads the Fuels Institute, a nonprofit, independent think tank founded in 2013 and managed by NACS. Prior to the Fuels Institute, he served more than 1...

Is There Such a Thing Called Work-Life Balance? - Episode 369

January 02, 2023 05:00 - 24 minutes - 22.2 MB

Aaron McHugh sought balance, but instead felt defeated, more stressed and more burdened. Hear how he found a way for adventure, work, life, play, relationships, rest and finances to co-exist. Related Link: Aaron McHugh Hosted by: Chrissy Blasinsky and Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Aaron McHugh, Executive Coach & Senior Affiliate Advisor to McKinsey/Aberkyn Aaron is an executive coach, writer, podcaster, adventurer and author of the best-selling book, "Fire Your Boss: Discover Wo...

7-Eleven's Evolution: The Top Story of 2022 - Episode 368

December 26, 2022 05:00 - 22 minutes - 21.2 MB

7-Eleven's Evolution stores are a testing ground that allows customers to experience the retailer’s newest innovations and products—and they are redefining the concept of convenience. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Molly Long, Vice President of Store Evolution & Design, 7-Eleven Inc. Molly is responsible for all design-related activities associated with both the physical store as well as the customer experience inside of 7-Eleven, including new stores, remodels, platform i...

Why Retailers Should Care About ESG - Episode 367

December 19, 2022 05:00 - 28 minutes - 26.6 MB

Although ESG reporting is voluntary, that is poised to shift. And it’s not just for the publicly traded retailers—privately held retailers also could be affected by proposed ESG policies. Hosted by: John Eichberger and Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Mike Roman, Senior Fellow, Public Policy/ESG, American Council for Capital Formation Mike has more than 40 years of global energy industry experience. In addition to his current work at the American Council for Capital Formation, he is th...

From Confections to Cookies and the Power of Mentorship - Episode 366

December 12, 2022 05:00 - 29 minutes - 27.2 MB

Industry icon Rick Brindle shares what he's learned and what he's looking forward to as a new chapter begins on his 46-year retail industry career. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard and Chrissy Blasinsky About our Guest: Rick Brindle, Vice President of Industry Development, Mondelēz International Rick Brindle has a long track record of breakthrough success in the in the food and beverage consumer product goods and retailing sectors, including serving at Safeway Stores, Proctor & Gamble, Nabis...

RTD Cocktails Fuel Accessibility Fight - Episode 365

December 05, 2022 05:00 - 31 minutes - 29 MB

Spirits-based ready-to-drink cocktails have exploded in popularity over the last few years. Outdated laws keep convenience stores in many states from selling these products. In states like Texas, retailers are fighting for change. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guests: Paul Hardin, President & CEO, Texas Food & Fuel Association Paul Hardin, CAE, is president & CEO of Texas Food & Fuel Association. A 30-year veteran in association management, Hardin previously served as executive ...

How a Rebrand Led to Reinvention at TXB - Episode 364

November 28, 2022 05:00 - 26 minutes - 24.5 MB

TXB has done much more than rebrand a previous store concept: It’s redefined the concept of convenience. Stores have a focus on fresh, local food and its local roots. After all, it’s Texas born. Related Link: TXB Stores Inc. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guests: Kevin Smartt, CEO, TXB Stores Inc. Kevin is CEO of TXB Stores, formerly known as Kwik Chek Food Stores, a chain of approximately 50 locations across Texas and Oklahoma. He is a current member of the NACS Executive Co...

Food Safety Risks You Can Control - Episode 363

November 21, 2022 05:00 - 29 minutes - 26.8 MB

From hand washing to why you should never rinse raw poultry during food prep, we're breaking down some of the biggest safe food handling risks that may be happening in your stores. Related Links: Food Safety Talk Risky or Not Safe Plates Hosted by: Chrissy Blasinsky About our Guest: Benjamin Chapman, Professor, Food Safety Extension Specialist North Carolina State University Chapman’s interest in pathogens and public health began as a teenager while watching the movie “Outb...

A Small C-Store Operator With Big Ideas - Episode 362

November 14, 2022 05:00 - 24 minutes - 22.5 MB

Two-store operator Anthony Perrine shares ideas he's implemented at his family's company, Lou Perrine’s Gas & Groceries, that go well beyond traditional c-store retail: part bakery, coffee shop, apparel store, neighborhood hangout and a lot of fun. Hosted by: Britt Brewer and Chrissy Blasinsky About our Guest: Anthony Perrine, Owner, Lou Perrine’s Gas & Groceries Lou Perrine's Gas & Groceries is a family-run company with two convenience stores located in Kenosha, Wisconsin. Started...

Store Security: What Retailers Need to Know - Episode 361

November 07, 2022 05:00 - 25 minutes - 23.8 MB

Loss prevention and security concerns have become a big concern in 2022. What can convenience retailers do to ensure that their stores remain welcoming to customers and uninviting to criminals? Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Amber Bradley, Founder and Owner, Calibration Group Amber has been in the loss prevention industry for more than 15 years. She currently serves as executive director for the Restaurant Loss Prevention and Security Association (RLPSA), hosts the popular...

Competition for the Credit Card Market - Episode 360

October 31, 2022 04:00 - 23 minutes - 21.6 MB

The Credit Card Competition Act would bring long-overdue competition to the credit card marketplace, significantly reducing swipe fees. Here’s what you need to know—and do—to help move this effort forward. Related Link: Fix Swipe Fees Hosted by: Jeff Lenard and Chrissy Blasinsky About our Guest: Doug Kantor, NACS General Counsel Doug joined NACS in May 2021 after serving as a partner at Steptoe & Johnson LLP, where he worked with the NACS government relations team to define eff...

Why Your Digital Presence Matters - Episode 359

October 24, 2022 04:00 - 21 minutes - 20.3 MB

Most consumers (97%) rely on digital searches to find a business or a service. The convenience retail industry has a massive opportunity to redefine its digital identity and drive both customer traffic and sales. Related Links: THRIVR Hosted by: Jeff Lenard and Chrissy Blasinsky About our Guest: Lori Stillman, NACS Vice President, Research and Education Lori joined NACS in 2019 and leads the association’s industry-leading research portfolio and education department. She has a d...

Florida Retailers and the Aftermath of Hurricane Ian - Episode 358

October 17, 2022 04:00 - 25 minutes - 23.7 MB

Disaster and recovery plans helped convenience and fuels retailers in Florida affected by Hurricane Ian be among the first businesses to reopen. We’ll talk about how they prepared and about current conditions in the hardest hit areas. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Ned Bowman, Executive Director, Florida Petroleum Marketers Association Ned Bowman grew up in Connecticut in a family of seven boys and one girl, and went to college at University of New Haven, graduating in 198...

Brand Messaging Drives Customer Engagement - Episode 357

October 10, 2022 04:00 - 31 minutes - 28.7 MB

Convenience stores sell hundreds of different brands, and retailers can put a focus on these brands by pricing, placement and promotions. But what about the most important brand in your store--your brand? We discuss what you need to do to make sure your brand is top of mind with customers--and that your store offer matches that brand promise. Related Link: www.ab-net.us Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Rick Sales, President, Abierto Networks Rick is founder and president...

What To Do After the NACS Show - Episode 356

October 03, 2022 04:00 - 25 minutes - 23.7 MB

We're talking with a convenience retail industry icon how the end of the NACS Show is the start of a bigger strategic planning process. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard and Chrissy Blasinsky About our Guest: Jeff Miller, CEO and President, Millers Energy Jeff is CEO and president of Millers Energy, based in Norfolk, Va. The company was founded in 1977 and is in the residential heating and air-conditioning, heating oil and property management businesses in southeastern Virginia. He entered th...

Scoping the Industry’s Biggest Issues - Episode 355

September 26, 2022 04:00 - 34 minutes - 31.5 MB

We're talking about pressing issues that convenience retailing industry executives are facing, and how NACS is addressing them. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard and Chrissy Blasinsky About our Guest: Henry Armour, NACS President and CEO Henry is third president and CEO to lead NACS in its 61-year history. His tenure began in July 2005, following a long history with the association. He served two one-year terms as NACS chairman (2001-2003), as treasurer/chairman-elect and vice chairman of res...

Team Rubicon's Commitment to Serve Communities - Episode 354

September 19, 2022 04:00 - 21 minutes - 19.9 MB

From just 8 veteran volunteers to 150,000-plus today, Team Rubicon is rebuilding global communities before, during and after disasters and crises. Related Link: Team Rubicon Hosted by: Jeff Lenard and Chrissy Blasinsky About our Guest: Jake Wood, Founder and Executive Chairman, Team Rubicon Since 2010, Team Rubicon, the fastest growing and most innovative disaster response organization in the world, has responded to nearly 1,000 crises around the world and the United States. Un...

How To Stop Marketing and Start Engaging - Episode 353

September 12, 2022 04:00 - 27 minutes - 25.6 MB

By building trust and connection, customers will make your business the logical choice when the market needs your product or services. Related Link: Unmarketing Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Scott Stratten, Founder, Partner, Speaker Scott is best-known for the concept that is also the name of the company he founded in 2002: UnMarketing. Together, Scott and his wife Alison have taught their unconventional practices to thousands of people worldwide and are co-authors of...

A Deep Dive Into Effective EV Infrastructure Expansion - Episode 352

September 05, 2022 04:00 - 27 minutes - 25.3 MB

With billions of dollars being invested in electric vehicle charging infrastructure, what will the demand for EV chargers look like during the next 10 years? Related Link: Fuels Institute Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: John Eichberger, Executive Director, Fuels Institute John leads the Fuels Institute, a nonprofit, independent think tank founded in 2013 and managed by NACS. Prior to the Fuels Institute, he served more than 14 years at NACS as vice president of governme...

Small Towns With Big Food Finds - Episode 351

August 29, 2022 04:00 - 26 minutes - 24.3 MB

From rural Mississippi to Key West and New Orleans, Stafford Shurden knows where to find delicious and authentic food at local gas stations in c-stores. Related Link: Stafford Shurden Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Stafford Shurden, host of "Gas Station Tailgate Review" Stafford is a farmer, restaurant owner and former justice court judge. In between farming and cooking, he tours the south giving inspirational speeches and reviewing gas station food.

Where Is the Retail Fueling Market Heading? - Episode 350

August 22, 2022 04:00 - 24 minutes - 22.4 MB

As the fall months approach, here's what consumers and retailers can expect from the gas, diesel and oil markets. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Denton Cinquegrana, Chief Oil Analyst, OPIS For more than a decade, Denton has covered nearly all markets where OPIS has price discovery. Prior to becoming the chief oil analyst at OPIS, he was executive editor for U.S. refined products, overseeing day-to-day market coverage operations.

Where To Look for Great Ideas - Episode 349

August 15, 2022 04:00 - 27 minutes - 25.8 MB

Small operators like The Hub's Jared Scheeler are always on the lookout for big ideas that will transform their convenience stores. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard and Chris Blasinsky About our Guest: Jared Scheeler, CEO, The Hub Convenience Stores Jared is the 2021-22 NACS Chairman. He began his career in the convenience industry in 1998 while attending the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, where he worked at Minneapolis-based Bobby & Steve’s Auto World. His engagement with NACS began i...

2022 NACS Show—Full Speed Ahead - Episode 348

August 08, 2022 04:00 - 19 minutes - 18 MB

We're breaking down what convenience retailers need to know as they prepare for an amazing experience at this year's NACS Show in Las Vegas. Related Links: NACS Show NACS Food Safety Conference Category Management Certification Pre-Conference Workshop Hosted by: Chris Blasinsky About our Guest: Jeff McQuilkin, Director, Exhibit Sales and Services, NACS Jeff has been with NACS since 2017 and is the director of exhibit sales for the NACS Show. He has extensive tradeshow indus...

2022 C-Store Industry Outlook - Episode 347

August 01, 2022 04:00 - 28 minutes - 26.4 MB

At the halfway point of 2022, NACS data is revealing operational opportunities and lingering challenges that will last throughout the year. Related Links: NACS State of the Industry Report of 2021 Data NACS Research NACS CSX Database NACS State of the Industry Compensation Report of 2021 Data Hosted by: Chris Blasinsky About our Guest: Chris Rapanick, Director of Business Development for NACS Chris is the director of business development for NACS and has two decades of ex...

Will Customers Choose Your Store Over the Competition? - Episode 346

July 25, 2022 04:00 - 22 minutes - 20.8 MB

How retailers can define their value amid uncertainty around elevated gas prices and record-high inflation. Related Links: Cenex Cenex LIFT Initiative NACS Magazine, "Face LIFT" Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Akhtar Hussain, Director of Refined Fuels Marketing, Cenex Akhtar Hussain is the director of refined fuels marketing at Cenex, where he is responsible for brand marketing, retail development and retail imaging and equipment for Cenex, which has more than 1,500 c...

Is an Electric Vehicle Future Possible? - Episode 345

July 18, 2022 04:00 - 26 minutes - 24.6 MB

There are many optimistic projections about EVs becoming a significant part of our transportation future, but very few account for current roadblocks. Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guests: Jay Smith, Partner at Capital Results Jay oversees the communications division at Capital Results and helps clients from all sectors of the economy achieve their policy and strategic goals. Doug Kantor, NACS General Counsel Doug joined NACS in May 2021 after serving as a partner at Steptoe...

Circle K Europe Steps Up to Support Ukraine - Episode 344

July 11, 2022 04:00 - 31 minutes - 29 MB

Hear how the global convenience retailer quickly moved to support its teams and operations in Eastern and Central Europe related to the war in Ukraine. Related Link: Circle K Hosted by: Jeff Lenard and Mark Wohltmann About our Guest: Niall Anderton, Senior Vice President Operations, Central Eastern Europe and Ireland (SVP CEE & Ireland), Circle K Niall’s overall responsibility is for the Circle K business in Ireland and Central and Eastern Europe, which includes Poland, Lithuan...

How to Drive Sales With Forecourt Communications - Episode 343

July 04, 2022 04:00 - 33 minutes - 30.6 MB

Effective marketing and communications can help convenience retailers drive customers inside the store. Related Links: Abierto Networks Rutter's Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guests: Rick Sales, President, Abierto Networks Rick is founder and president of Abierto Networks, a leading digital engagement solutions provider focused on the convenience store and convenience foodservice retail industries and used in more than 4,000 locations across the United States. Chris Hart...

How Retailers Support Local Heroes Around the Clock - Episode 342

June 27, 2022 04:00 - 26 minutes - 24.3 MB

The convenience retail community unites to celebrate first responders, medical and emergency professionals and Red Cross volunteers on July 24, also known as 24/7 Day. Related Links: 24/7 Day Yesway NACS Foundation Hosted by: Jeff Lenard and Stephanie Sikorski About our Guest: Derek Gaskins, Chief Marketing Officer, Yesway Derek has an impressive career in the convenience and fuel retailing industry. He currently heads up all marketing, merchandising and procurement efforts f...

What Retailers Need to Know About ESG Planning - Episode 341

June 20, 2022 04:00 - 28 minutes - 26 MB

Industry experts break down how environment, social and governance (ESG) issues are growing and facing regulatory requirements that could have enormous implications for the fuels industry. Related Links: Fuels Institute "The Case for Developing an ESG Plan" American Council for Capital Formation SEC Proposes to Enhance Disclosures by Certain Investment Advisers and Investment Companies About ESG Investment Practices Hosted by: John Eichberger and Jeff Lenard About our Guest: ...

Candy and Snacks Drive C-Store Excitement - Episode 340

June 13, 2022 04:00 - 25 minutes - 23.5 MB

From salty to sweet, indulgent or healthy, here's how convenience stores satisfy their customers' cravings for snacks. Related Links: NACS State of the Industry Report of 2021 Data Convenience Voices NACS Magazine Hosted by: Chris Blasinsky and Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Tim Young Tim is an experienced category manager within the convenience retail channel who also uses social media to share stories about brands. He spoke at the 2022 NACS State of the Industry Summit on the...

Breaking Down the NACS State of the Industry Results - Episode 339

June 06, 2022 04:00 - 28 minutes - 26.7 MB

Charlie McIlvaine of Coen Markets takes us on a deep dive into the convenience retail industry's financial and operational performance data. Related Links: Coen NACS Research Hosted by: Chris Blasinsky and Jeff Lenard About our Guest: Charlie McIlvaine, Chairman and CEO, Coen Markets Inc. Charlie and his brother, Andy, manage the Coen Markets, Coen Energy, Coen Tire, and Coen Transport in the Pittsburgh region. Charlie is also managing partner of Thomaston Capital LLC, a priv...

Really Good Gas Station Chicken - Episode 338

May 30, 2022 04:00 - 31 minutes - 28.6 MB

How a convenience store food favorite inspired a song and a YouTube channel. Related Links: Tailgate Gas Station Review "Gas Station Chicken" by The Nighthawks Hosted by: Jeff Lenard About our Guests: Stafford Shurden, Host of “Tailgate Gas Station Review” Stafford is a farmer, restaurant owner and former justice court judge. In between farming and cooking, he tours the south giving inspirational speeches and reviewing gas station food. Mark Stutso, Musician Mark is the d...

AAA's Sizzlin' Summer Drive Forecast - Episode 337

May 23, 2022 04:00 - 23 minutes - 21.5 MB

Convenience stores are getting ready to be road trip destinations for 34.9 million travelers this summer. Related Links: AAA Newsroom AAA Gas Prices Hosted by: Jeff Lenard and Chris Blasinsky About our Guest: Andrew Gross, National Public Relations Manager, AAA Andrew manages media relations for AAA’s Foundation for Traffic Safety and Public Affairs, including communications and PR campaigns. He joined AAA in January 2020 after a three-decade career in journalism, most of whic...

Guests

Daymond John
1 Episode