FDA allows Zyn to market nicotine pouches as lower-risk alternative to cigarettes

The administration’s latest orders allow Zyn to claim that using the products instead of cigarettes decreases the risk of several smoking-related diseases.

By Brett Dworski • July 1, 2026

Sheetz, Dash In lead the charge as refreshers reshape c-store beverage sales

The drinks sit at the intersection of fruit flavor, wellness and afternoon treat occasions, making them highly adaptable across c-store menus.

By Christine Blank • June 29, 2026

How to open a restaurant in a c-store

Built-in traffic and low build-out costs make c-stores an attractive growth opportunity, but brand fit and executional discipline are essential, experts say.

By Michael Brady • June 29, 2026

Onvo debuts private label snacks

The retailer’s new array of proprietary potato chips was designed to complement its existing foodservice offering.

By Jessica Loder • June 25, 2026

3 charts outlining the growing smokeless nicotine market

With Zyn and On! Plus earning marketing approval from the FDA, the category is becoming increasingly important in c-stores.

By Jessica Loder • June 22, 2026

Anheuser-Busch invests $20M in Michelob Ultra production in bet on beer rebound

The Bud Light owner will upgrade brewery and packaging equipment at facilities across Missouri after executives expressed optimism that the worst is over for the industry.

By Sarah Zimmerman • June 18, 2026

SNAP waivers could lead to $830M sales loss for soda, candy, energy drinks

By the end of 2026, state-specific restrictions are expected to impact one-third of participants in the government food assistance program, Numerator found.

By Catherine Douglas Moran • June 2, 2026

Why c-stores are winning the affordable luxury moment

As budgets tighten, shoppers may be cutting back on major purchases, yet they’re still craving small moments of joy.

May 26, 2026

Which categories offer c-stores the best private label opportunities?

A few popular areas in food and beverage offer retailers the chance to win back margin and offer exciting choices for younger shoppers, experts say.

By Danielle McLean • May 19, 2026

C-stores are getting dinged for having higher prices, report says

Inflation and macroeconomic challenges are highlighting to consumers just how expensive some items are at c-stores compared to other retailers, according to NielsenIQ.

By Jessica Loder • May 19, 2026

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