BENTONVILLE, Ark. -- To help independent c-store operators navigate in today's uncertain economy and to help them take advantage of increased customer traffic during the critical summer months, Sam's Club is partnering with nearly a dozen supplier manufacturers to launch "100 Days of Summer."
The independent convenience store operator faces a variety of challenges when it comes to running a successful business. The rising cost of food and nonperishable items, lack of time and a lean staff can all impact the bottom line. This program offers a portfolio of consumer insights, category management [image-nocss] expertise, new products and merchandising and promotional support, combined with in-store support from helpful associates who understand the c-store industry.
"Our goal is to help convenience store owners save money, which is important every day, but even more so during tough economic times," said Catherine Corley, vice president of marketing and insights for Sam's Club. "The 100 Days of Summer campaign will give c-store owners the tools necessary to maximize profits during busy summer months, and it reinforces the value of being a Sam's Club Business Member. We provide consumer trend information, category management templates and, of course, every day low pricing on items essential for their businesses such as snacks, beverages, and equipment."
Independent c-store operator Mark Ghannam, of J&K Kings Highway Mobil in St. Louis, said, "The prices [at Sam's Club] are cheaper than any other wholesaler, plus the 2% cash back is great. Sam's is convenient, plus I really like the manager. He's very helpful and always lets me know when there's something new in the store or anything going on that might help me."
Sam's Club offers prepackaged tobacco, snacks, beverages, foodservice items, cleaning products and restroom supplies. Many Sam's Club locations nationwide have expanded candy and gum offerings because these items are key to the c-store offering. Equipment and security systems are available for purchase online.
In addition to core product offerings and merchandising support, Sam's Club offers business members the time-saving convenience of extended Gold Key Hours. As always, there is no minimum purchase requirement and stores are open seven days a week to meet any last-minute or unplanned needs. Business members also benefit from Click'n'Pull and Fax'n'Pull convenient ordering services, credit-card processing and savings on printing services with FedEx and FedEx Kinko's. In addition, stores offer flexible credit terms and up to 2% cash back on all Sam's Club Discover Card purchases.
Sam's Club is a division of Wal-Mart Stores Inc., Bentonville, Ark.Click hereto read previous CSP Daily News coverage of how Sam's Club caters to independent c-store operators.
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