Retail Forward: Convenience Store Growth To Slow
By George Anderson
A new report from Retail Forward, Convenience Stores Industry Outlook, says convenience store industry growth will slow to an average rate of 3.8 percent through 2006. This compares to the double digit growth pace the industry has maintained over the past five years.
Sandy Skrovan, author of the report and Vice President of Retail Forward said in a released statement, “Heightening competition, declining margins, and a heavy reliance on two core categories — gasoline and tobacco — continue to challenge the convenience store industry. C-store players increasingly are looking to the inside of the store and innovative technology to redefine the offer, differentiate from the competition, and enhance performance.”
Moderator’s Comment: What challenges are confronting
the convenience store industry? What will it take to be successful in this business
in the years ahead?
[George
Anderson – Moderator]
