THE CONVENIENCE STORE INDUSTRY IN THE 1990s AND BEYOND

The dynamic convenience store industry began in Oakcliff, Texas in 1927. Today there are 84,500 stores with sales of $103.5 billion. There may be 95,200 stores with sales of $150.7 billion (1990 dollars) by 1995. The cost‐margin squeeze will create significant adjustments. Stores will be designed to “feel good” instead of “cookie cutter” designs. Suppliers will have to adjust product mix and pack sizes for more flexible stores. New formats may not resemble current stores. Strip centres may be replaced with convenience centres. Petroleum companies will dominate the industry in the 1990s. They have locations and other advantages. Management information systems will be expanded along with scanning and applications such as space management. Attracting talented people to manage stores will be the highest priority. Training, recognition, and reward are keys.