WESTLAKE, Texas — Convenience-store distribution company Core-Mark International has launched Core-Mark Curated, an initiative that will identify, nurture and help develop the best new brands for inclusion in Core-Mark’s distribution channel, which serves more than 42,000 convenience stores.
A hybrid of startup accelerator and incubation programs, Core-Mark Curated is a key component of Core-Mark’s Center of Excellence (COE), a facility enabling convenience retailers to immerse themselves in the retailing experience and drive new ideas, products and solutions to grow their businesses.
“Core-Mark prides itself on delivering providing innovative products and solutions to the convenience retail industry,” said Chris Murray, senior vice president of marketing for Westlake, Texas-based Core-Mark. “Core-Mark Curated perfectly complements this effort by uncovering and stewarding the best and brightest new products that can help differentiate our customers in a highly competitive marketplace.”
Emerging brands may register at this website to pitch their products to merchandisers and buyers for the chance to become part of the Core-Mark distribution network. Emerging brands that Core-Mark selects will be invited to the initial Core-Mark Curated showcase event, scheduled for Aug. 27-28. There, they will network with Core-Mark senior leaders, buyers, sales managers and corporate merchandisers, gaining insights into the c-store landscape while presenting their products for potential distribution partnerships. (The company will update the industry on whether the event will take place at the COE in Westlake or virtually.)
Core-Mark is one of the largest marketers of fresh, food and broad-line supply solutions to convenience retailers in North America. Founded in 1888, it offers a full range of products, marketing programs and technology solutions to approximately 42,000 customer locations in the U.S. and Canada through 32 distribution centers (excluding two distribution facilities the Company operates as a third-party logistics provider). Core-Mark services traditional convenience stores, grocers, drug stores, mass merchants, liquor and specialty stores, and other stores that carry convenience products.
Members help make our journalism possible. Become a CSP member today and unlock exclusive benefits, including unlimited access to all of our content. Sign up here.