Marketing Tactics

Where constantly changing is the name of the game, Ray White is a perfect example of a retailer who doesn’t hesitate to make changes to his Agassiz, BC video and convenience store. Until a year and a half ago, MovieSource Convenience & Video was focused primarily on video. But when video stores lost steam and White noticed consumer demand shifting, he converted completely to a convenience store and turned his attention to improving his in-store environment with point-of-sale materials.

To call the Alcona Esso in Innisfil, Ont. just a gas station or convenience store would be inaccurate. But you also can’t refer to it simply as a lube shop, car wash or drive-thru coffee and doughnut shop, either. Alcona Esso features all of these services, but it’s much more.

In every issue of YCM/Octane we share stories from convenience, gas and wash retailers who are using social media to build a community of loyal customers. Pictured above is Scott Knack, owner of Alcona Esso in Innisfil, Ont. Over the last couple of years, Scott and his team have built up a Facebook following of more than 1,400 people. Check out their social media story "Making Friends" in the January issue of YCM/Octane. It's full of innovative ideas and tips to help you learn from their success.

Do you want to sell beer and wine in your c-store?

March 1, 2013, Aurora, Ontario -   Pioneer Energy LP, based in Burlington, Ontario, has renewed one of the most successful petroleum loyalty card programs in Canada - Pioneer Bonus Bucks - continuing their profitable relationship with LoyalMark Division of KESM Transaction Solutions Inc.

Take two minutes out of your day to watch this video, which features Roland Park, owner of IDA Milk and Variety in Toronto. He'll walk you through three ways to profit from promotions. If you follow these simple tips, you might just see a lift in sales!

From the fight for beer and wine sales in c-stores and the looming threat of a plastic bag ban in Toronto, to the increasing concern over contraband tobacco and tragic incidents of fuel theft, 2012 was a tough year for Ontario c-store owners.

In the small community of Sioux Narrows, Ont., word travels fast. That’s why Anthony Gill, owner of Gill’s Trading Post, uses point-of-sale materials to ensure his customers notice new products and promotional deals available in his store...