Year in Review: Top Competitor Moves of 2014

JERSEY CITY, N.J. — Channel blurring has been happening for years, but 2014 seemed to be the year that everybody — grocers, big-box retailers, drugstores, restaurants, and even some entirely new concepts — set their sights on the “convenience” factor.

These are the top 10 competitor moves for 2014, as reported by CSNews Online:

1. Inside Walmart's New C-store Concept
CSNews editor previewed Walmart to Go prior to grand opening.

2. CVS’ Tobacco Exit Draws Reaction, Applause
C-stores could benefit from competitor's decision to exit the category.

3. CSNews Gets Inside Look at TargetExpress
Smaller location touts quick trips while maintaining the brand.

4. Starbucks Will Join the 'Express' Movement
Small-format stores to be designed around speed of service.

5. Small-Format Explosion Is Coming
Walmart to Go is part of a larger retail evolution taking place.

6. What Vape Shops Have That C-stores Don’t
Owners of these emerging businesses share their strategies.

7. Burger King & Tim Hortons Merger Is Official
Deal creates the world's third-largest QSR. 

8. McDonald's 'Create Your Taste' Platform Expands
Customization program extending to 2,000 U.S. locations.

9. Walmart Pickup Service Makes Its Debut
Roughly 10,000 grocery and consumable products are available.

10. Uber Expands, Rebrands Delivery Service
uberESSENTIALS now offers more products to D.C. users.

Stay tuned to CSNews Online through Jan. 5 for more 2014 Year in Review recaps.