Protein powder shortage threatens America’s biggest food craze

Companies are now grappling with whether or not to raise prices at a time when consumers are already reeling from a prolonged period of inflation.

By Sarah Zimmerman • May 11, 2026

FDA greenlights first fruit-flavored vapes

Four pods from vaping company Glas, including menthol, blueberry and mango flavors, earned marketing approval from the U.S., joining the short list of authorized products.

By Jessica Loder • May 7, 2026

Asian-inspired c-stores see growing popularity

Interest in snacks, music and even experiences from countries like Korea is driving the trend, say operators of banners like Seoul Station and Busan Mart.

By Amanda Baltazar • May 6, 2026

3 Big Numbers: Zooming in on stores’ new looks

Refuel is opening its first site with an adjacent Whataburger, Freshies shared an updated design and Stewart’s is developing a rare two-story c-store.

By Jessica Loder • May 1, 2026

How c-stores are positioning to win the protein wars

From exercise fanatics to those seeking more energy-dense snacks, consumers can’t get enough protein — and retailers like 7-Eleven and Wally’s are adjusting their assortments accordingly.

By Christine Blank • April 29, 2026

Independent c-store groups partner to enhance education and advocacy

The APCA and SAASOA, both of which support smaller retailers, will join forces on education, legislative advocacy and developing best practices.

By Jessica Loder • April 22, 2026

C-stores are closing the value gap with restaurants, report finds

Nearly 80% of customers say convenience store prices are equal to or better than those at fast food and fast-casual establishments, Tillster data shows.

By Jessica Loder • April 20, 2026

3 Big Numbers: How did c-stores fare in 2025?

We’re taking a close look at convenience retail sales and employment data that NACS shared in its State of the Industry report.

By Jessica Loder • April 17, 2026

5 charts showing the changing energy drink landscape

While all of the major energy drink companies saw sales increases year over year, the rising tide is not lifting all boats, according to a Goldman Sachs report.

By Jessica Loder • April 8, 2026

3 Big Numbers: 2026 is the year of the c-store IPO

Arko spun out its petroleum business in February, Yesway has refiled to go public and 7-Eleven’s leaders expect to spin out its North American business.

By Jessica Loder • April 3, 2026

Hershey reverting back to ‘classic’ chocolate recipe for some Reese’s products

The change, which will only affect 3% of products, follows a weeks-long campaign from the grandson of the peanut butter cup’s founder.

By Christopher Doering • April 3, 2026

Circle K, FEMSA affiliate sued over e-cigarette sales

The New Mexico Department of Justice said the convenience retailers “willfully distributed and sold flavored disposable vape products in blatant disregard for public health and safety.”

By Brett Dworski • April 2, 2026

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

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

By Frank Beard • April 1, 2026

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

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

By Jessica Loder • March 27, 2026

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

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

By Jessica Loder • March 26, 2026

How c-stores are capitalizing on Americans’ caffeine obsession

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

By Christine Blank • March 23, 2026

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

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

By Christopher Doering • March 23, 2026

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

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

By Aneurin Canham-Clyne • March 16, 2026

Global foods - A growth opportunity for convenience

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

By IDDBA • March 16, 2026

Energy drinks are fueling Casey’s in-store sales

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

By Brett Dworski • March 12, 2026

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

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

By Jessica Loder • March 6, 2026

Tri Star launches private label snack line

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

By Jessica Loder • March 6, 2026

QuikTrip to open at least 80 c-stores in 2026

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

By Jessica Loder • Feb. 26, 2026

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

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

By Christine Blank • Feb. 23, 2026

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

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

By Julie Littman • Feb. 19, 2026