The Spinx Co. Inc.

Company leader Steve Spinks was named in 2019 as one of the "50 most influential" by Greenville, S.C.'s Greenville Business Magazine. The award honors the region's most influential people, selected by staff research and community nominations. It speaks volumes about the company and its reputation throughout South Carolina. For example, Spinx Co. partnered with Hop In, a downtown shuttle service, to provide complimentary rides to ease traffic during Greenville's busy fall season. Tourists pack the city during Fall for Greenville and the annual euphoria festival featuring local cuisine and culture.

The Spinx Co. also opened its newest store in early 2019, a 6,600-square-foot site with a new interior layout and decor celebrating the chain's Southern roots. Stewart Spinks, founder and chairman of the board, said the store is situated on "the very spot where I operated one of my first gas stations."

Spinx operates 92 locations, including c-stores and tunnel car washes. Newest c-stores have full-service kitchens, and the chain is known for its Southern fried chicken. The company began in 1972 with a home heating oil delivery service and one convenience store in Greenville. The company employs over 1,400 associates through its stores, food operations and related businesses.

For benchmarking purposes, store counts are year-end 2019.