A hallmark of the NACS In Store program is its ability to build bridges between members of Congress and their local communities. Since the program’s inception in 2015, NACS has coordinated more than 140 store visits with both House and Senate members. These visits provide legislators a firsthand perspective on how federal policies and regulations impact local businesses, employees and consumers in their districts.
Sen. Roger Wicker cleaning a constituent’s windshield at Sprint Mart.
In 2024, several members of Congress took part in NACS In Store visits. Rep. Lori Chavez-DeRemer (OR-5) visited a Jacksons Food Stores location in Portland, Oregon, where she gained a better understanding of the unique role convenience stores play in her district. Similarly, Sen. Roger Wicker (MS) toured Sprint Mart in Columbus, Mississippi, and engaged with employees and store owners on a number of key issues facing the industry, including the importance of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the rising cost of credit card swipe fees.
These visits serve as platforms to address policy issues. One topic discussed in 2024 was the rising fees that retailers pay to accept debit and credit cards. The fees have weighed down local businesses for many years and continue to create challenges for the industry.
Another significant issue raised during the visits was the development of electric vehicle infrastructure. Many store operators shared their views on how federal policy could better support private sector investment in this growing area. During his visit to a Maverik store in Scottsbluff, Nebraska, Rep. Adrian Smith (NE-3) learned how convenience retailers, especially in rural areas, could lead efforts to expand EV charging stations if provided with equitable opportunities for private investment.
Rep. Mary Gay Scanlon behind the counter at Wawa, making a sandwich.
During her visit to a Wawa in Ridley Park, Pennsylvania, Rep. Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-5) learned more about how convenience stores contribute to SNAP, and the positive impact allowing SNAP recipients to use their benefits to purchase hot meals would have for local families.
Rep. Erin Houchin meeting constituents while at Casey’s.
These store tours help educate legislators about the c-store business and provide a platform for retailers to share their stories and advocate for policies that affect their teams and their business. Rep. Rudy Yakym (IN-2) expressed his gratitude for being able to see firsthand how policy decisions impact a local Family Express in Mishawaka, Indiana. Similarly, Rep. Erin Houchin (IN-9) left her tour of a Casey’s store in Seymour, Indiana, with a stronger appreciation for the challenges that convenience retailers in her state face daily.
Rep. Rudy Yakym at Family Express, seeing a convenience store amenity, the pet wash station.
By facilitating these hands-on experiences, the NACS In Store program is one of the most effective tools in the NACS Government Relations toolbox. These visits build relationships between retailers and legislators that extend beyond the store counter and into the halls of Congress, fostering collaboration on policies that will support the industry’s growth.
To participate in the NACS In Store program, contact Esmeralda Orozco, NACS grassroots manager, at eorozco@convenience.org.