Year in Review: Top Retailer News of 2014

JERSEY CITY, N.J. — Convenience store retailers hit some high points, as well as a few lows, in 2014.

On the highs side, retailers marked milestones serving their communities — Wawa Inc. had a star-studded 50th anniversary celebration in April, while Kum & Go LC thanked its customers for 55 years of loyalty. Others looked toward the future with new-store builds, renovations and updated images.

On the lows side, the c-store industry lost several leaders. Nice N Easy Grocery Shoppes mourned the loss of two of its co-founders.

These are the top 10 retailer news headlines of 2014, as reported by CSNews Online:

1. Nice N Easy Founder John MacDougall Passes Away
For 34 years, his strong values defined the New York c-store chain.

2. Pantry Shareholders Vote for Change
Dissident group's three board of director nominees are elected.

3. Pilot Flying J, Federal Gov't Reach Pact
Truck stop operator will avoid prosecution according to the understanding.

4. CVS to End Tobacco Sales in October
Convenience stores could benefit from competitor's decision to exit the category.

5. Wawa Toasts to 50 Years in a Big Way
On "Wawa Day," the Golden Goose celebrated its past and looked toward the future.

6. Thorntons Embarks on Chainwide Store Overhaul
All 178 stores to be remodeled over five years.

7. Error Leads Casey’s to Revise Financial Results
Ethanol excise tax treatment requires $31.5M payout to IRS.

8. Opening Day Arrives for Sheetz N.C. Distribution Center
The facility already employs about 100 workers.

9. BP Launches New Retail Image
Branded marketers can upgrade their stores to the "to go" image.

10. QuikTrip Fires Up QT Kitchens Rollout
The c-store chain expected to finish the project by October.

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