Energy drinks are fueling Casey’s in-store sales

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

By Brett Dworski • March 12, 2026

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

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

By Jessica Loder • March 6, 2026

Tri Star launches private label snack line

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

By Jessica Loder • March 6, 2026

QuikTrip to open at least 80 c-stores in 2026

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

By Jessica Loder • Feb. 26, 2026

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

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

By Christine Blank • Feb. 23, 2026

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

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

By Julie Littman • Feb. 19, 2026

Recapping the major moves reshaping 7-Eleven

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

By Jessica Loder • Feb. 17, 2026

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

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

By Jessica Loder • Feb. 6, 2026

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

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

By Christopher Doering • Feb. 4, 2026

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

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

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

What’s ahead for c-stores in 2026?

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

By Jessica Loder • Jan. 30, 2026

Parker’s Rewards shifts to points-based system

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

By Jessica Loder • Jan. 27, 2026

Do cannabis products still have a future in convenience stores?

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

By Michael Brady • Jan. 26, 2026

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

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

By Brett Dworski • Jan. 23, 2026

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

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

By Aneurin Canham-Clyne • Jan. 23, 2026

Buc-ee’s next stop? Nebraska.

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

By Jessica Loder • Jan. 22, 2026

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

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

By Jessica Loder • Jan. 20, 2026

Circle K franchisee ups cannabinoid focus with new THC drink partnership

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

By Jessica Loder • Jan. 15, 2026

Energy drinks’ fortunes are still rising. Here’s how to ride the wave.

While the category is gaining market share with fresh flavors and ideas, competition from other beverages is cutting into sales.

By Christine Blank • Jan. 14, 2026

Moore Oil converting 20 sites to ExtraMile

This is a significant expansion for the Chevron and Jacksons Food Stores joint venture in Birmingham, Alabama, where it only has one location.

By Jessica Loder • Jan. 14, 2026

Pilot redesigns app

The update aims to make the mobile interface easier for users to navigate and switch between personal and professional accounts.

By Jessica Loder • Jan. 13, 2026

8 c-store companies we’re watching in 2026

From upcoming IPOs to ambitious expansion plans, 7-Eleven, EG America, Anabi Oil and others are poised to make big moves this year.

By Jessica Loder • Jan. 12, 2026

How RaceTrac is gearing up for more growth

Over the past year, the retailer has been improving its technology, building its supply chain and making acquisitions as it continues expanding.

By Jessica Loder • Jan. 12, 2026

8 trends that will define convenience retailing in 2026

Operators will once again endure tough economic conditions while continuing to stretch the boundaries of what’s possible in c-stores.

By Jessica Loder , Brett Dworski • Jan. 6, 2026

6 burning questions for the c-store industry in 2026

As the new year gets underway, several key storylines that impact retailers remain unresolved. Here are the ones we’re thinking about.

By Brett Dworski , Jessica Loder • Jan. 5, 2026