Convenience stores were declared essential business in 2020 because of what they sell and what they mean to communities.
NACS leveraged this theme to reinvent the NACS Ideas 2 Go video series during the pandemic. Ideas 2 Go showcases convenience retail industry leaders who are leading the way by staying ahead of the everchanging consumer, technology and retail landscape.
In 2020, NACS interviewed three convenience retailers who shared heartfelt stories on how they kept their doors open to serve their communities amid massive economic uncertainty related to the global pandemic, as well as periods of unrest in the fight for justice.
These inspirational stories debuted during the NACS Crack the Code event in late 2020 and have since been shared to a broader retail audience on the NACS website; in a NACS Magazine feature story, “Look for the Heroes;” on social media and in the NACS Convenience Matters podcast:
- Doing More and Doing Good
During the pandemic, Rachel Krupa, CEO and founder of The Goods Mart in New York City, reinvented her store’s offer and doubled down on community outreach.
- Leading When Leaders Are Needed Most
Lonnie McQuirter, director of operations at 36 Lyn Refuel Station, responded to periods of unrest in his downtown Minneapolis community, and the community rallied to support his business.
- What Being an Essential Business Means
In 2020, Don Rhoads, president and CEO of The Convenience Group, responded to the pandemic and economic downturn at his Washington state convenience stores by reaching out to his neighbors and supporting the community in a big way.
To view the three Ideas 2 Go videos and additional digital content featuring Krupa, McQuirter and Rhoads, visit www.convenience.org/Ideas2Go.
IN THE COMMUNITY
Ankeny, Iowa-based Casey’s announced its Cash for Classrooms grant program awarded $1 million to benefit K-12 schools through 99 grants. The funds come as teachers, students and families have faced a full year of challenges and changed routines brought on by the coronavirus pandemic.
The Cash for Classrooms grants support projects and initiatives taking place at K-12 schools in Casey’s communities, such as new playground equipment and expanded playground areas to encourage play, updated technology like projectors and document cameras, new computers for teachers and adding reusable bags to a school’s food pantry.
EG America partnered with the American Cancer Society to raise money for life-saving programs, research and services that will help patients and families affected by cancer. Through March 31, all EG America-operated locations offered guests an opportunity to donate $1, $5 or any amount they want to the American Cancer Society.
“We all know someone who has had cancer or who is fighting cancer—it affects all of us in some way,” said EG America President George Fournier in a press release. “Raising money not only helps fight this insidious disease, but it’s our way of supporting those who truly need it. The American Cancer Society has been doing tremendous work for decades; it’s a privilege to be its partner.”
Chicagoland-based Parent Petroleum partnered with the Chicago Blackhawks Foundation for the “Fueling Our Community” campaign.
From February 22 through the end of May, PRIDE Stores across Chicagoland transformed one gas pump at each location and will donate three cents per gallon pumped at the “Blackhawks Pump” to the Blackhawks Foundation. The top five locations that raise the most money through their Blackhawks Pump will earn a Blackhawks G.O.A.L. clinic for a local elementary or middle school in their community.