5 Things: Buc-ee’s Goes Viral, Snacking State By State, Candy Hall of Famers, More

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5 Things is a new weekly feature from CSP Daily News highlighting some of the recent convenience-store news that might otherwise slip through the cracks.

Spreading Buc-ee’s Fever

Cases of measles are on the rise, and public health officials in Comal County, Texas, are notifying residents of a confirmed case involving an individual from Gaines County who visited multiple locations in the region, including two college campuses and a Buc-ee’s convenience store in New Braunfels, Texas, over a three-day period beginning Feb. 14. Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads through coughing, sneezing and direct contact. Symptoms typically appear seven to 21 days after exposure and include high fever; cough, runny nose and red, watery eyes; and a rash. “Anyone who visited the … locations during the specified time frames should monitor for symptoms and check their vaccination status,” said Comal County Public Health Director Cheryl Fraser. Convenience stores are both local community centers and stops on the way to destinations beyond, and Buc-ee’s is no exception, given the buzz and growing, nationwide popularity of the chain, and Buc-ee’s locations are destinations in themselves. —Greg Lindenberg

Denver Adopts New Rules for Future Gas Stations

After hearing the concerns of residents about longstanding businesses that Denver residents considered community spaces that have been torn down in recent years to make room for new gas stations, the Denver City Council has adopted new regulations significantly limiting where new gas stations can be built. According to the council members, “the city is in need of new mechanisms that prioritize the thoughtful placement of future gas stations.” The new rules prohibit new retail gas stations within a quarter mile of an existing gas station or light rail transit station and within 300 feet of residential districts. The proposal includes an exception for gas stations that are combined with commercial space for the sale of groceries, home goods or other products that could serve nearby residents. The new rules also prohibit gas stations from adding more fuel pumps unless the expansion would also add electric vehicle (EV) chargers. —Greg Lindenberg

Gas Station, Snack Nation

Rice Krispies Treats came out on top as America’s favorite gas station snack, averaging at a price of $4.44, beloved by consumers in Alaska, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Iowa, Nevada, Oregon and Washington, according to a report by Kroger. Beef jerky landed at No. 2, averaging at $5.56, with big fans in Kentucky, Mississippi, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Virginia and Wyoming. And sitting at No. 3 is taquitos with an average price of $1.99 with demand highest in Alabama, Arizona, California, Georgia, Illinois, Louisiana and Nebraska. 

And when it comes to affordability, Snickers with an average price of $1.76 are the most popular in Maryland while Hi-Chew’s average price of $8.52 doesn’t discourage New Jersey’s love. —Greg Lindenberg

1. Rice Krispies Treat, $4.44

2. Beef Jerky, $5.56

3. Taquitos, $1.99

4. Chex Mix, $4.44

5. Snickers, $1.76

6. Doritos, $2.89

7. Toblerone, $3.69

8. Hi-Chew, $8.52

9. Flamin’ Hot Cheetos, $5.89

10. Peanut M&M's, $1.79

11. Miss Vickie's Jalapeño Kettle Chips, $4.69

—Greg Lindenberg

Sheetz Sweetens Up Candy Hall of Fame

Tom Rosenberger, category sales manager for convenience-store retailer Sheetz Inc., Altoona, Pa., is among the Candy Hall of Fame Class of 2025, established by the National Confectionery Sales Association (NCSA). Dennis Williams, executive vice president of procurement for National Convenience Distributors, Farmingdale, New York, is also among the 2025 inductees.

Candy Hall of Fame Class of 2025 inductees are:

• John Brooks Jr., Adams & Brooks Inc.

• Jim Dodge, Mars Wrigley

• Mike Farley, Goetze’s Candy Co. Inc.

• Robin Gutridge, Raley’s Supermarkets

• Betsy Harris, HWY Partners

• Tom Rosenberger, Sheetz Inc.

• Eric Schmoyer, IRCA Group Americas

• Sherrill Taylor, Burdette Beckmann Inc. (Posthumous)

• Lynn Wieland, Spangler Candy Co.

• Dennis Williams, National Convenience Distributors

• Andrew Young, HWY Partners

Since 1971, the Candy Hall of Fame has recognized lifetime career achievements in the confectionery industry. Candy Hall of Fame members come from all disciplines within the confectionery industry, must have at least 20 years of service to the industry (buyers must have at least 10 years of experience) and must be 50 years of age at the time of nomination. Honorees demonstrate loyalty to building and supporting the confectionery industry through active participation over and above job requirements.

—Greg Lindenberg

bp Charges Up Convenience Offer

bp today has launched its first new-format electric vehicle (EV) charging and convenience hub in London. The company removed fuel from the site and installed five ultra-fast bp pulse 300kW chargers, each capable of charging two cars simultaneously, with canopies over the chargers. It also features a redesigned convenience store with upgraded wildbean cafe and M&S Food offer. This combined food, drink and convenience offer reflects the increase in drivers’ expectations of services they want to access while their car is charging. The in-store and outside design, with its contemporary new look, enhances the customer experience by optimizing the layout with an open and inviting environment and product offerings, bp said. This all-electric charging hub is part of the company’s broader strategy to evolve its mobility and convenience network meeting customers’ needs wherever they are in their energy transition. By adding bp pulse EV charging to its premium fuel and retail offer, bp will also develop new EV charging hubs with enhanced convenience offers that match customer needs. —Greg Lindenberg

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