With strategic collaboration between CPG brands and convenience retailers on the rise, brands should be seeking out every competitive advantage possible. But do you have the right combination of experience, expertise, and data-driven insights to get closer to your c-store retail partners?

Extracting valuable insights from data can reveal new ways to make a bigger splash in the convenience channel. Whether your goal is to speed up your decision-making, optimize your marketing strategy, or grow your revenue, data-driven insights are key to your success.

Start with these five steps to leverage data about consumer behaviors, industry trends, and market gaps to gain a competitive advantage in the convenience channel.

1. Get to know c-store customers better

C-store shoppers are unique from consumers across different retail channels. Getting to know their preferences and behaviors helps you create more personalized offers and services.

• Drill down into consumer behaviors: C-store shoppers prioritize convenience. Think fast grab-and-go purchases like beverages, snacks, and quick meals. Use data analytics tools to track foot traffic patterns and daypart activity to identify peak shopping times—then customize your promotions with your top impulse purchase products.
• Pinpoint individual preferences: Go deeper to determine who is buying which products at what times—and how varying your offers can impact purchasing frequency and sales. For example, are you seeing trends that could lead to potential product gaps, expansions, or growth areas?

2. Optimize your marketing campaigns

The more you know what c-store customers want and how they behave, you can engage with them much more effectively.

• Get hyper-personal: Data analytics and metrics help you track campaign performance, right down to individual promotions so you can reach shoppers with the right offers at the right time. Track what content and channels resonate with key audiences, then create highly targeted messages that boost engagement for greater impact.
• Refine your product mix: Use data-driven insights to help identify the right product mix for individual stores based on local demand, optimizing product placement for maximum visibility. Continually watch for new market trends, changing behaviors, and unmet needs to drive product innovation.

3. Enhance your operational efficiency

Beyond customer analysis and marketing campaigns, you can also use data-driven insights to optimize your operations and reduce costs.

• Peer into the future: Leverage data analytics to better anticipate demand, so you can avoid stockouts and overstocking. Modern predictive analytics based on historical data and machine learning analysis are great for honing your forecasts to help manage inventory.
• Tighten supply chain management: Do you have access to data that can help you identify bottlenecks in your distribution channels or gaps in inventory management? Understanding price elasticity, seasonal patterns, and shifting regional demands can also help you optimize your operations.

4. Boost your profitability

When the goal of business is to make money, increasing your profitability should always be a top priority. This is yet another area where reliable, real-time data can help ensure sustainable financial success.

• Create new revenue streams: Deeper analysis of key market trends can reveal new opportunities to differentiate your products and campaigns. Use this analysis to segment more effectively, optimize pricing, improve conversion rates, and boost overall sales performance.
• Maximize profitability: Do you have access to competitive data? If so, you can closely track your competitors, benchmark your performance, and adjust your product pricing strategies to increase profitability, even when facing a wide range of dynamic market conditions.

5. Strengthen your convenience retail partnerships

If you can accomplish steps 1-4, you’ll be well on your way to building stronger relationships with your c-store partners. But there are additional ways to collaborate for mutual benefit.

• Hone your retail strategy: Share your data-backed insights with your convenience retail partners to reveal the value of your products and brand. Provide trustworthy data that convinces them to elevate your products with priority placement and promotion.
• Get the complete picture: Using location data helps you work more strategically with c-stores to align your merchandizing efforts and promotions based on a common understanding of shopper behavior and preferences. And don’t forget about data from independent operators, which can give you a much more comprehensive view of the entire convenience channel.

Get started today

Make sure you’re maximizing the full value of your data-driven insights in the convenience retail market. If you need an experienced partner to help you collaborate with top retailers, PDI experts can help you get there faster. Contact us.

Picture this: a customer walks into your store at 7 AM, coffee-deprived and running late, but instead of grabbing a sugary energy drink, they’re scanning your shelves for something that will fuel their body and their goals. Welcome to the new era of convenience retail, where “grab-and-go” is getting a serious wellness makeover.

The health and wellness opportunity—and challenge

Sure, you’re still competing with that c-store across the street and the big-box retailer down the road. But your biggest competition might actually be your customers’ own health aspirations. And guess what? That creates a big opportunity if you’re ready to embrace the change.

The numbers don’t lie—Americans are seriously committed to leveling up their wellness game. According to CapitalOne Shopping Research, 85% of consumers are actually reading nutritional labels, and 77% want to eat healthier. Even more telling? 68% are motivated by the promise of feeling better and having more energy. We’re talking about consumers who want to make better choices—they just need you to make it easier for them.

So, what’s the catch? Sixty percent of consumers say they’d eat healthier if nutritious foods weren’t so expensive, and 54% are desperately seeking easier access to affordable healthy options. That means there’s a massive gap in the market just waiting for the right c-store to fill it.

Your new favorite customers: Millennials and Gen Zers

Here’s where the generational demographics get interesting. The Millennials and Gen Zers walking through your doors? They’re not just buying snacks—they’re investing in their wellness.

Despite making up only 36% of the adult population in the US, they’re driving over 41% of annual wellness spending. Meanwhile, older consumers (age 58+) represent 35% of the population but only 28% of wellness spending.

For c-stores, this is like finding a treasure map with a giant “X” marking your demographic sweet spot (only it’s not Generation X). These younger consumers want fast, convenient access to health-conscious brands, and they’re willing to pay for it.

The wellness landscape: it’s personal

As consumers move beyond one-size-fits-all approaches, they’re focusing on holistic well-being that encompasses their mental, physical, and emotional health. They want solutions that fit their unique lifestyles, and that’s where your store can shine.

With prepared foodservice purchases at c-stores rising 16.3% in 2024, it’s clear that customers see convenience stores as legitimate food destinations. Here’s how to capitalize on that momentum:

• Expand your foodservice game: Move beyond the hot dog roller and the microwave. Fresh fruits, pre-cut produce, grab-and-go salads, yogurt parfaits, and fresh meal kits are what healthy consumers want.
• Offer smarter snacks: Stock up on protein-packed, fiber-rich snacks with healthy fats so your customers can feel better about their impulse purchases.
• Go plant-based: Even carnivores are curious about new plant-based alternatives, so give them some new options to explore.
• Make wellness more affordable: Don’t let price be the barrier to good health. Offer budget-friendly “health food” products that prove that wellness doesn’t have to break the bank.
• Champion gut health: Probiotic drinks, prebiotic snacks, and high-fiber options are having a moment—and shoppers are devouring them.

Your 3-step action plan

Ready to transform your store into a wellness destination? Here’s a roadmap to get you started:

1. Collaborate with purpose: Team up with health-focused CPG brands that understand the natural and organic market. These partnerships give you access to high-quality products and the expertise to market them effectively. Sweeten the deal with discounts and bundles that encourage customers to try new healthy options.
2. Promote “better-for-you” products: Strategic merchandising is your secret weapon. Smart shelf labeling, eye-catching signage, and flexible product placement can turn browsers into buyers. Educate your shoppers about health benefits—they’ll appreciate the guidance.
3. Create a more inviting environment: Your store should feel as healthy as the products you’re selling. Clean, well-maintained spaces with attractive displays make healthy choices more appealing. Remember, environment greatly influences purchasing behavior.

The bottom line

The wellness revolution isn’t coming—it’s already here and it’s happening at convenience stores. Your health-conscious customers are ready to make your store their go-to destination for convenient wellness solutions.

By embracing this trend and personalizing your approach to health-conscious consumers, you can meet the demand while building loyalty, driving profitability, and positioning your store as an essential part of your customers’ wellness journey.

Sources:

• CapitalOne Shopping Research
• McKinsey & Company

Your convenience store isn’t just competing with the shop down the street anymore—it’s competing with mobile ordering, delivery apps, and any retail site that considers itself part of the ever-changing face of convenience. 

In this crowded landscape, throwing marketing dollars around won’t necessarily grow your business and it doesn’t make financial sense. What does? Laser-focused targeted marketing that delivers an impressive, verifiable ROI. 

The magic number: understanding marketing ROI 

Marketing ROI tells you how much money you’re making or losing due to your marketing efforts. It effectively shows you whether your marketing tactics are working. The industry benchmark for decent ROI ratio is between 5:1 and 9:1, depending on the channel ($X earned for every $Y spent), while marketing superstars hit 10:1 or higher. If your current efforts aren’t approaching these numbers, it’s time for a strategy makeover.  

The ingredients for targeted marketing success 

Think of targeted marketing like a gourmet meal from a personal chef rather than fast food for the masses. When properly prepared, these ingredients create something irresistible: 

• Loyalty programs that actually work: Your repeat customers aren’t just familiar faces—they’re spending machines who buy 29% more on average than first-timers. A well-crafted loyalty program helps transform occasional shoppers into daily devotees. 

• High-margin items: Not all products are created equal in the profit department. Targeted marketing subtly guides customers toward items that pad your bottom line the most. 

• Engagement that goes beyond transactions: When your marketing feels personally crafted for each customer, they notice. You’re not just collecting data—you’re building relationships that translate into revenue gains. 

• Data as your secret weapon: Your POS system shouldn’t just process payments when it’s sitting on a potential gold mine of customer insights. When you harness this information correctly, you won’t have to guess what works—you’ll already know. 

What to avoid: potholes on the road to ROI success 

Even the best marketing plans can hit some bumps: 

• The startup investment reality: Yes, good targeted marketing requires upfront investment in technology and training. But think of it as buying a fishing rod instead of a single fish—the long-term returns make the initial pain worthwhile. 

• The “wing it” approach: Launching campaigns without proper planning is like baking without measuring ingredients—sometimes you end up with something edible but rarely delicious. Take the time to develop your campaigns with purpose. 

• The unpredictable external world: Consumer trends shift faster than ever. External factors will always disrupt your best-planned campaigns, making flexibility critical. 

• Navigating without metrics: If you can’t measure it, you can’t improve it. Without proper tracking tools, you’re essentially wearing a blindfold while trying to hit a bullseye. 

What to do: your 5-step ROI optimization roadmap 

1. Get to know your customers: Identify distinct customer segments and treat them like the unique shoppers they are. The person buying energy drinks at 7 AM needs different messaging than the late-night ice cream emergency shopper. Then segment and continue to refine segmentation. 

2. Set goals with teeth: Vague aspirations get vague results. Set specific, measurable targets that leave no doubt about success or failure. 

3. Budget like you mean it: Align your spending with realistic expectations. Remember that underfunding great ideas is just as problematic as overfunding mediocre ones. 

4. Choose your channels wisely: Whether it’s mobile apps, email, in-store signage, or social media—select platforms where your customers already engage. 

5. Monitor, adjust, repeat: Treat your targeted marketing initiatives like a living organism that needs regular check-ups and TLC to stay healthy. 

How to spot ROI success 

You can find the proof of targeted marketing in these concrete results: 

• Revenue jumps: McKinsey wasn’t just making small talk when they found personalization can boost revenue by up to 15%. Those are real dollars in your real bank account. 

• Marketing efficiency: Watch your marketing dollars work smarter, not harder, as you replace scattershot approaches with precision targeting. 

• Customer loyalty: When customers feel seen and understood, they don’t just come back—they bring their friends and family with them. 

• Lower customer acquisition costs: Keeping existing customers happy can slash acquisition costs by up to 50%. That’s not just savings—it’s transformation. 

In a world where convenience is everywhere, targeted marketing isn’t just smart—it’s survival against your strongest competition. By focusing your efforts, measuring what matters, and continuously refining your approach, you can turn targeted marketing into one of your store’s most profitable investments. 

In today’s rapidly evolving retail landscape, convenience stores have been a fairly remarkable success story. As the fastest-growing retail channel in the US with 1.5% year-over-year growth between 2023 and 2024, c-stores continue to demonstrate strong resilience and adaptability.

Whether you’re a c-store operator, CPG-focused brand manager, or an advertiser, our recent “Pulse of Convenience” report offers an in-depth look at the trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the convenience retail industry for 2025 and beyond.

Industry strength amid economic pressures

The c-store sector maintains an impressive retail footprint with over 150,000 locations across the US alone, serving approximately 1,100 shoppers per day at each site. While sales experienced some declines in 2024 compared to 2023, profitability remained strong thanks to a 4.1% rise in average unit prices.

One surprising development is how closely consumer behavior now correlates with fuel prices, with PDI data revealing a strong positive correlation between gas prices and both fuel and in-store trips.

A shift in customer expectations

Also notable is how an increasing number of c-store shoppers are seeking more than just fuel and basic necessities. Foodservice has emerged as a major growth opportunity for c-stores, with prepared meals showing an impressive 16.3% increase in 2024.

This shift toward foodservice is already transforming c-stores into destination points rather than just quick stops, especially as they invest in mobile technologies for ordering, payments, and even deliveries, essentially following more of a restaurant model.

The growing technology imperative

Behind the scenes, digital transformation continues to reshape the c-store customer experience. From AI-powered inventory management to personalized loyalty programs, technology adoption has become a critical differentiator in the market.

The report highlights several growth opportunities, including frictionless checkout systems, enhanced loyalty programs, alternative revenue streams, and improved cybersecurity measures—all crucial considerations for operators looking to stay competitive.

Consumer insights worth noting

Peering into the consumer mindset, data reveals that 67% of all US shoppers visit a c-store once a week or more, with 38% visiting more than twice a week. So, what’s driving these consumers to make such frequent visits?

Beyond the foundational level of convenience, the following perceived benefits are driving the most c-store visits:

• Loyalty programs (37%)
• Ease of payment (36%)
• Food options (27%)

Payment preferences continue to evolve as well, with debit cards leading both in usage and preference, followed by credit cards and cash. Surprisingly, digital wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay account for only 5% of transactions, indicating significant room for growth in this area.

Looking forward

With 58% of convenience store operators feeling optimistic about their business for 2025, the industry outlook remains positive despite lingering challenges like staffing concerns (cited by 46% of operators as their top business challenge) and economic uncertainties such as inflation and potential tariffs.

For a comprehensive analysis of the convenience retail landscape and actionable insights you can use to propel your business forward, download your own copy of this free report.

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The stereotype of convenience stores being little more than a pit stop for questionable hot dogs and stale coffee is long gone. Sure, you might occasionally experience a c-store that’s seen better days, but many have transformed themselves from once-humble establishments into full-blown lifestyle destinations.

Why? Competition. In addition to competing against their peers, today’s c-stores are going up against groceries, quick service restaurants, and other specialty retailers. That intensified competition is like iron sharpening iron—it’s forcing c-stores to bring their “A” games and redefine how the world defines “convenience.”

Forward-thinking convenience stores aren’t just selling products these days. They’re selling experiences, lifestyles, and maybe even a little bit of magic.

In turn, a robust and thriving convenience channel is great news for Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) brands looking for ways to better understand modern consumers, trial new products, and collaborate more effectively for greater profitability.

Here are six areas where c-store evolution is already benefitting CPG brands.

1. Healthier options

Remember when “healthy” at a convenience store meant choosing the banana over the candy? Well, health-conscious choices are now front and center. We’re talking kombucha on tap, fresh-pressed juices, and protein bowls that would make your gym trainer weep with joy. Imagine if someone dropped a Whole Foods into your local 7-Eleven and hit the blend button!

2. Digital transformation

Integrating the digital experience has turned your smartphone into a convenience store magic wand. Loyalty apps are dishing out offers faster than you can say “BOGO energy drinks.” It’s like having a tiny, highly caffeinated personal shopper right in the palm of your hand. And let’s not forget about those self-checkout kiosks, because nothing says “convenience” like being able to avoid small talk at 2 AM.

3. Compelling experiences

Now, brace yourself for this bombshell: convenience stores are becoming…wait for it…experiential. I get it. “Experiential” in the context of c-stores used to mean avoiding a sketchy bathroom. But we’re talking next-level experiences now. Think in-store cafes, wine tastings, and even live music.

4. Sustainability everywhere

And for all you eco-warriors, sustainability is no longer just a buzzword—it’s the new normal. Biodegradable packaging, locally sourced products, and enough reusable bags to make sea turtles applaud. The attitude is far beyond green—it’s downright emerald.

5. Truly convenient services

Here’s where things get really wild. Convenience is being redefined faster than you can say “contactless payment.” Delivery services and curbside pickup have turned your local QuikTrip into a drive-thru for, well, basically everything. Did you forget to pick up milk, diapers, and a phone charger? No problem—they’ll be at your doorstep before you can finish your latest binge-watch on Netflix.

6. Personalization

Last but not least, we can’t forget about personalization. Today’s c-stores are getting to know you better than your own mother. Tailored offers, real-time promotions, and customized recommendations—it might feel as if they’ve got a crystal ball powered by your purchase history. “Why, yes, I do want to add a protein bar to my usual 3 PM coffee run. Are you psychic?”

Big opportunities for CPG brands

For CPG brands, this is your wake-up call. The convenience game has changed, and it’s time to level up. If you can ride this wave of transformation—health-conscious options, digital integration, compelling experiences, and personalization—you’ll be laughing all the way to the bank.

Yes, the humble convenience store has undergone a metamorphosis. It’s no longer just a stop on the way to somewhere else—it’s become the destination.

So, the next time you walk into your local c-store, take a moment to appreciate the miracle of a modern retail evolution happening right before your eyes. And maybe grab a cold-pressed juice while you’re at it.

When it comes to convenience stores, there’s a new group of sheriffs in town, and they’re armed with smartphones, TikTok accounts, and an insatiable appetite for healthy products. That’s right. We’re talking about Generation Z, the tech-savvy cohort born between 1997 and 2012 who are currently turning the c-store world on its head faster than you can say “prebiotic soda.” 

Especially for health-focused CPG brands, cracking the code on this enigmatic generation might feel like trying to solve a Rubik’s Cube blindfolded while riding a unicycle. But fear not—we’re about to dive deep into some Gen Z consumer behavior trends and resurface with the secrets to successfully marketing your offerings in the convenience retail channel. 

If you want connect with Gen Z consumers, here are seven smart ways to do it. 

1. Be authentic 

First things first: authenticity. Gen Z can smell BS from a mile away, and they’re not afraid to call it out. Your brand needs to be more genuine than a heartfelt apology video from a canceled celebrity. Transparency isn’t just appreciated—it’s expected. So, ditch the corporate speak and get real, or watch Gen Z scroll right past you. 

2. Get social 

Now, let’s talk social media. If you’re not on TikTok or Instagram, do you even exist? For Gen Z, probably not. Despite what you might think, these platforms aren’t just for dance challenges and dog videos (although those also help). They’re a new battleground for brand awareness and a great channel to promote what you have to offer. 

3. Nourish the body and spirit 

Health and wellness? Yep, that’s Gen Z’s jam. But we’re not talking about your grandma’s idea of health. This generation takes a holistic approach that combines mental, physical, and spiritual health. Your products need to nourish not just the body, but the mind and soul. No pressure, right? 

4. Go green and stay green 

Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword for Gen Z. It’s a way of life. If your packaging isn’t eco-friendly, you’re already behind your competition. Ethical business practices? Non-negotiable. Gen Z expects your brand to have a smaller carbon footprint than a vegan ant. 

5. Integrate the experience 

Now, let’s talk tech. For Gen Z, if it can’t be done on a smartphone, what’s the point? Your convenience store strategy needs to be more digitally integrated than a Silicon Valley startup. Apps, mobile payments, AR experiences—if your business isn’t tech-savvy, it’s not Gen Z-savvy. 

6. Make it personal 

Personalized experiences and customization are table stakes in a world where almost everything is available on demand, anywhere at any time. Gen Z doesn’t want to be another face in the crowd. They prefer to be the main character in their own movie. As a result, your offers and experiences need to be more tailored than a bespoke suit. 

7. Deliver actual value 

Last but not least, it’s all about delivering true value. Gen Z is more budget-conscious than their predecessors, yet they still demand a very high level of quality. What’s your strategy for reconciling those seemingly conflicting priorities? Offer products that are cheaper than a Netflix subscription but fancier than the egg white omelet served in the local hipster café. 

Ride the Gen Z wave 

In all seriousness, the secret sauce for successfully marketing health-focused CPG products to Gen Z in convenience retail isn’t really all that secret. Rather, it’s a perfect storm of authenticity, digital expertise, holistic health focus, sustainability, tech integration, personalization, and value. Easy peasy, right? 

Here’s the bottom line: Gen Z is reshaping the convenience store landscape faster than you can say “TikTok made me buy it.” Brands that can keep up with their ever-evolving preferences and values will be in good shape to earn a share of Gen Z’s (digital) wallets. 

Remember, marketing to Gen Z isn’t just about selling a product. It’s about promoting a lifestyle, a value system, and maybe even a meme or two. So, buckle up. 

The Gen Z convenience store revolution has already started, and it’s going to be one heck of a ride. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to go make a TikTok video about this blog post. Because, of course, that’s what Gen Z would want. 

You’re looking for compelling ways to engage with customers inside your store, so you’ve decided to get rid of paper shelf tags and go digital.

First of all, smart decision! Second, you need to think about ways to maximize your ROI and make a splash with your customers. In the rapidly evolving retail landscape, Electronic Shelf Labels (ESLs) can help you unlock significant operational efficiencies while enhancing the customer experience.

Here are five essential tips to get the most value from your ESL implementation.

1. Keep it simple and prioritize essential information

The primary function of your ESL system should be clear, efficient communication with a clean layout that shoppers can process at a glance. While it’s tempting to pack displays with information, less is often more:

• Focus on price, unit pricing, and promotional details
• Include competitor price comparisons (when advantageous)
• Reserve more detailed product information for interactive displays or shelf talkers

2. Strike the right balance between information and promotion

Create a clear distinction between informational and promotional displays:

• Use standard price tags for straightforward price communication
• Strategically deploy enhanced graphical displays for high-margin items or special promotions
• Consider implementing rotating displays that alternate between price information and promotional content

3. Leverage dual-purpose functionality

Modern ESL systems should serve both your customers and your staff effectively. PDI Electronic Shelf Labels integrate directly with Pricebook so you can make real-time inventory and pricing updates across store locations. To manage these updates from a store perspective:

• Use ESLs to streamline inventory counts and reduce manual scanning time
• Train staff to utilize inventory management features during restocking
• Update tags remotely to speed up store resets and product rotations

4. Future-proof your approach with 2D barcode support

With the industry moving toward 2D barcodes by 2027, now is the time to refine your ESL strategy for both traditional and 2D barcodes:

• Use this transition to test customer engagement with 2D codes
• Track customer scan behavior to test and refine your display strategies
• Implement inventory management functionality for staff-specific barcode displays

5. Optimize visibility through smart design

Ensure your ESL displays are easily readable for all customers, including under different lighting conditions:

• Prioritize high-contrast display options (black text on white backgrounds works best)
• Select appropriate type sizes based on viewing distance and shelf height
• Use color strategically—reserve it for highlighting sales or special promotions

Start building your ESL strategy today

Electronic shelf labels are a powerful tool for modernizing your retail operations and staying competitive in today’s dynamic market. By implementing these best practices, you can maximize ROI while improving both operational efficiency and the customer experience.

Want to explore ESLs further or connect with an expert? Visit our PDI Electronic Shelf Labels product page.

If you’re part of the convenience world, you’ve probably heard a lot about Electronic Shelf Labels (ESLs) lately—for good reason. And, if you’ve been in a c-store recently, there’s a good chance you’ve seen ESLs in action. For retailers, the potential benefits of ESLs are extremely compelling. 

Replacing old paper tags offers a wide variety of advantages that can enhance your operations, improve your margins, and create a better shopping experience for your customers. I had a fun time getting some hands-on experience with PDI Electronic Shelf Labels at the recent NACS Show as part of our “Connected Convenience Store” exhibit. 

The ESL display attracted a lot of attention from attendees. I answered a lot of questions about how ESLs work, but most people wanted to know what kind of ROI was possible. 

The most common benefits that resonated with NACS attendees were the ability to efficiently deploy price updates, product details, and even promotions or images directly to store shelves in real time. These modern labels not only streamline in-store operations but also give your store a sleek, high-tech look—especially with those eye-catching digital v-rails! 

However, what really differentiates PDI ESLs from other vendors isn’t just how they look—it’s how seamlessly they integrate with your existing systems. 

The PDI Enterprise ecosystem advantage 

Unlike standalone solutions from other vendors, PDI Electronic Shelf Labels are fully integrated with PDI Enterprise and Pricebook, making them a natural extension of your back-office infrastructure. This integration allows you to maximize the value of your existing technology investment while reducing operational complexity. For example, you can update prices, product details, and promotions in just minutes—and because the system is synchronized with your POS, everything stays automatically updated and accurate across the board. 

Not only does this level of integration make price changes seamless and efficient, it also enhances your in-store digital media ecosystem. That gives you a fast and easy way to launch targeted pricing and promotions that can elevate the overall shopping experience. This integration also lays the foundation for a future-ready retail media network strategy, positioning your store for long-term success in an increasingly digital world. 

Why PDI ESLs improve efficiency and profitability 

If paper-based pricing updates are eating up too much of your team’s time and resources, PDI ESLs can significantly boost operational efficiency. Automating this labor-intensive process not only frees up your staff to focus on what really matters—customer engagement—but also delivers a quick return on investment. Moreover, the ability to update pricing and promotions instantaneously leads to more accurate pricing, improved margins, and a smoother in-store experience for your customers. 

If you’re looking for new ways to modernize your c-stores while building on technology you already know and rely on, it might be time to explore how PDI ESLs can give your business a competitive edge.

In today’s fast-paced convenience and fuel retail industry, your business is constantly facing changes and new challenges. From shifting consumer behaviors to breakthrough technology and stiffer competition, the effort to maintain your business edge can feel like an uphill battle. 

That’s why “Connecting Convenience” is more than just a tagline for PDI. To us, connecting convenience means providing you with the solutions and tools to boost productivity, make smarter decisions, and engage more effectively with your customers. 

We’re continually investing in innovative solutions and services that streamline core business operations to further increase your profitability—whether you’re running a single location or managing a national retail chain. 

Today, much of the industry recognizes PDI for our Enterprise solution, which has provided a reliable technology foundation for fuel and convenience retailers across the decades. But did you know that we deliver a lot more than ERP software? You can now go well beyond ERP with over 30 different PDI solutions designed to help you secure your business, engage consumers faster, enhance your customer experience, and unlock the full potential of your data. 

More than ERP: A fully integrated retail ecosystem 

If you’re like many convenience retailers who already know and use PDI Enterprise, the good news is that these additional offerings integrate seamlessly with it! 

You not only get the benefits of each solution—you benefit from the collective advantage of working with a single vendor, leveraging systems your IT team already knows, and building on a rock-solid technology foundation. 

The result? Greater efficiency and higher productivity to streamline your operations while opening new growth opportunities for your business. For instance, with PDI Retail Site Management, you can leverage enhanced capabilities like PDI Enterprise Foodservice and Next-Generation Lottery Tracking. 

Or, if you’re thinking about upgrading to Electronic Shelf Labels, PDI offers the only solution that’s fully integrated with both Enterprise and Pricebook. This level of integration creates exciting new ways to expand your in-store digital media, strengthen your loyalty program, and create a good base for your retail media network strategy. 

There’s a PDI solution for each business goal 

No matter the size of your business or your progress on your digital transformation journey, PDI helps convenience retailers succeed in a variety of ways. We’ll help you: 

• Secure your business: Strengthen security for all aspects of your business to protect your key assets and customers. 

• Engage consumers more effectively: Use targeted tools to connect with your customers at every touchpoint on their own terms. 

• Elevate your customer experience: Create seamless, engaging experiences in-store and beyond. 

• Turn insights into action: Unlock the value of your data and analytics to build impactful engagement strategies. 

• Expand your brand: Amplify your brand and solutions to reach new markets and customers. 

• Supplement your team: Leverage PDI professional services expertise to fill gaps and enhance your operations. 

Leveraging PDI’s powerful, integrated solutions as the backbone of your convenience ecosystem, you can feel confident that your business will be ready for whatever comes next. 

Explore Now or Connect with an Expert

Contact our experts to discuss how PDI can help your business far beyond ERP—today and well into the future.

Explore now

When it comes to fuel and convenience retail, loyalty and payments are like peanut butter and jelly. Sure, they’re great on their own. But when you combine them…that’s where the magic happens. 

Before exploring why loyalty and payments are the perfect pairing, it’s helpful to review why both are important on their own. 

First, let’s first talk about loyalty 

To cut to the chase, a loyalty program is the #1 factor that influences a customer’s decision to visit a c-store.¹ This is why loyalty programs have become table stakes in the hyper-competitive fuel retail market.

While everyone has their own ideas about loyalty, and every retail loyalty program is unique, there are three core characteristics of any successful loyalty program:

1. Actionable: Loyalty should provide personalized, valuable experiences for customers to drive desirable behavior and brand affinity. This requires a strong commitment to marketing and staff training, which are important for attracting, engaging, and retaining your loyalty customers. (It doesn’t hurt to remind non-loyalty customers what they’re missing out on.) 
2. Measurable: When customers go from anonymous to measurable, you can collect first-party behavioral data then use it to identify and target customers individually, measuring which loyalty offers and tactics are most effective. This approach also provides scoreboard metrics to track program performance, such as Loyalty Penetration Rate (% of total transactions tied to loyalty). On average, identified customers visit your site 1.5X more and spend 29% more per visit.² 
3. Valuable: Consumers join loyalty programs to be rewarded for their loyalty. That’s why it’s so important to understand what types of offers and rewards your customers want (and the perceived value of these rewards).

Based on PDI’s loyalty experience, the three most influential loyalty offers include:

• Acquisition offer: A strong introductory offer that motivates new members to reach the “tipping point” of their fourth loyalty transaction. 
• Everyday fuel offer: Consumers receive a cents-off-per-gallon discount or earn points/rewards for every gallon (fuel savings is the top motivator to join a c-store loyalty program).² 
• Everyday spend offer: Consumers earn points or rewards for every dollar spent (the recommended value exchange is a 4% reward value per each dollar spent). 

Now, let’s talk about payments 

A payment solution enables retailers to accept their own method of payment inside the store and at the pump. The two main components of a payment program are Mobile Payment Processing Application (MPPA) and private label debit: 

• Mobile Payment Processing Application: The gateway between payment services and the retailer’s POS, which enables payment processing at the pump.   
• Private label debit: The retailer-branded payment card and/or mobile app that’s linked to a customer’s checking account. It works just like a credit card—but with no interchange fees, the cost per transaction is lower. The lower transaction fees can quickly add up to significant overall savings.  

This is where loyalty and payments complement each other so perfectly. They both exist to help you build brand relationships and drive positive customer behavior, leading to higher profit margins. 

Loyalty members visit more often and spend more per visit. Private label debit customers also visit more often and spend more per visit.  

What’s the recipe for success? 

When you combine loyalty and private label debit for fuel and convenience retail, the success metrics are even higher. 

The model for private label debit savings is rather simple. The more transactions you process, the more savings you realize. You can then reallocate these savings to fund more attractive loyalty offers (for example, 3¢/gal). 

By offering additional incentives (for example, +2¢/gal) for loyalty customers who are also using your payment solution (card and/or mobile), you’re enhancing the overall value proposition. In turn, that builds customer loyalty and increases your payment transactions.  

Once you’ve fully integrated your payment solution with your loyalty program, you and your customers see everything as one cohesive program. This creates synergies for marketing, site execution, training, reporting, management…everything, really. 

Better together is the smart choice 

The next time you make a sandwich, will you opt for an all-peanut butter sandwich or an all-jelly sandwich? Or are you going for the “better together” option that most of us would choose? 

The same applies to your loyalty and payment programs. They’re each good on their own. Together, they can be awesome! 

Take control of your customer data and start building deeper relationships through personalized, customer-centric experiences with PDI Loyalty solutions.  

Discover how payment-driven loyalty programs incentivize your highest-value customers to spend more with PDI Payment solutions. 

¹ 2023 Convenience Store News Realities of the Aisle Study
² PDI Technologies, Inc. 
³ PDI Tracking Convenience Report, March 2023 

We Could Make a Good Combo

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