Correcting Misperceptions About the Value of C-stores

ALEXANDRIA, Va. — Proving the value of the introduction of a convenience store can often be a daunting process for retailers when appearing before planning and zoning commissions and other community groups.

To help potential c-store operators defend the value of their businesses, NACS, the Association for Convenience & Fuel Retailing, published "How Convenience Stores Operate and Their Contributions to Communities." The publication is intended to be a starting point for retailers, and addresses issues such as jobs, property values, overnight hours, traffic and community engagement.

“During zoning hearings, opposition to convenience store permitting — whether for ground-up stores or remodels — often centers on general misperceptions about the value convenience stores deliver to the communities that they serve. This primer addresses these common concerns and helps retailers tell their stories about their commitment to their communities,” said NACS Vice President of Strategic Industry Initiatives Jeff Lenard.

The primer, incorporated under the NACS reFresh initiative, addresses ongoing industry perceptions by providing convenience retailers with tools to evolve their in-store offer and elevate their image. The reFresh initiative currently focuses on three elements:

• Creating tools that address NIMBY (not in my backyard) issues by educating the public about the contributions convenience stores make to their communities;
• Sharing facts and data that demonstrates the evolution of the industry and corrects an outdated reputation; and
• Forming partnerships/relationships with credible nutrition- and community-focused groups.

The 18-page NACS publication can be downloaded in its entirety here.

Alexandria-based NACS, the international association for convenience and retailing, was founded in 1961. It has 2,100 retail and 1,600 supplier member companies, which do business in nearly 50 countries.