R.L. Jordan Oil Co.

Family-owned and -operated, The R.L. Jordan Oil Co. grew out of a small country store in Franklin, N.C., where the proprietor was noted to be the first to introduce self-serve gasoline in Georgia and parts of the Carolinas.

The chain makes good use of its Hot Spot store name: The copyrighted moniker extends "Spot" to various merchandising categories. The foodservice program is affectionately dubbed "Food Spot," employee hiring area on its website "Career Spot," and craft beer selling space designated as "Hop Spot," which particularly took flight at the chain's Spartanburg store: That's where it offers seasonal brews and more than 200 different craft beers_with a Facebook following of thousands. The company's loyalty program, called "Rewards Spot," was developed more than 10 years ago to address competition coming into the market. The loyalty campaign offers points and discounts on every purchase.

In addition to Hot Spot convenience stores, the company operates three Hardee's, seven Subway locations and three Hunt Brothers pizza franchises in the Carolinas.

Jordan Oil continues to grow, where presently Hot Spot management has focused on maintaining and enhancing its competitive edge in existing markets served. A dedication to innovation and a desire to offer great products at competitive prices has always been the goal.For benchmarking purposes, store counts are year-end 2019.