Convenience and Carwash Canada Nov/Dec 2018

NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2018

Canada’s most read Canadian owned and operated Convenience, Retail Petroleum and Carwash Publication

SMOKE SIGNALS Tobacco Goes Plain as Cannabis Becomes Legal

TARIFFS – BUYING CANADIAN DISCUSSION PAGE 31

BLUEPRINT TO FOODSERVICE: FRESH PRODUCE IN CONVENIENCE

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MOBILE PAYMENTS – OFF TO A SLOW START PAGE 37

PET WASHES: SOAKING UP THE BENEFITS PM41670539

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SALTY SNACKS: INNOVATIVE NEW PRODUCTS PAGE 35

CONTACT: JIM YELLE Office 403.266.5558

Cell 403.589.3121

E-mail jyelle@mipetro.com

The most trusted resource for news and information about Canada’s convenience, retail petroleum, and carwash industry.

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CONVENIENCE & CARWASH CANADA

Cover Story

Petroleum and Carwash

Industry News

Instore and Nutrition

13 49 31 21 Cannabiz Open For Business

Forecourt Insight Fugitive Fuel Drops

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Tobacco Plain Packaging Regulations

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Publisher’s Message

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Editor’s Message Interesting Times

Women in Carwash Celebrating Women in the Industy

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Washtalk Dreams Eco Xpress

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Pet Washes Soaking Up The Benefits

Tariffs – Buying Canadian

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Cold Beverages Sparking Water Remains Hot

NACDA 2018 National Convenience Industry Summit

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Down on Your Corner Sharing Your Stories

Blueprint to Foodservice Fresh Produce in Convenience

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WCSA Report Healthier Choice Project

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Salty Snacks Innovative Products

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Mobile Payments Slow Start in Canada

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Carwash Brushes Good Versus Bad

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Dispenser Filters Going Above and Beyond Filtration

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What’s New

Upcoming Events February 6–8, 2019 PEI Young Executives Winter Conference The Queen Mary, Long Beach, CA www.pei.org/ young-executives-winter-conference

March 14–16, 2019 Service & Construction Managers Conference Seelbach Hilton Hotel, Louisville, KY www.pei.org/ service-construction-managers-conference-1

February 19–21, 2019 WPMA Expo The Mirage Hotel, Las Vegas, NV www.wpma.com/national-convention

April 29–May 1, 2019 Women in Carwash™ Conference Niagara Falls, ON www.womenincarwash.com

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May 1–3, 2019 PEI Women Conference Saguaro Scottsdale Hote, Scottsdale, AZ www.pei.org/pei-women-conference May 13–15, 2019 The Car Wash Show™ 2019 Nashville, Tennessee www.TheCarWashShow.com

Cover image is a Health Canada mockup of what plain cigarette packaging might look like if their proposed regulatoins are passed.

Register Today!

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

Women in carwash

Publisher’s Message

Welcome to the end of fall, sadly, but with the falling leaves and cooler temperatures retailers should be planning ahead for higher hot beverage sales and increases in demand for food service items.

This issue our Blueprint to Foodservice section offers readers insight into prepared and made to order sandwiches and salads. What are your customers asking for? Do you know? Have you asked them? More shoppers could mean more sales providing you have what your customers actually want to buy. Appealing to what your customers really want is not a difficult thing to accomplish, just ask them what they want.

Put a suggestion box at the front counter. Offer the best suggestion a monthly prize. This might be a coffee and a muffin. It’s certainly worth the time and the effort to stock your shelves with the product your customers will buy.

The NACS/PEI show this past October in Las Vegas never fails to impress us with the vast number of new exhibitors displaying new and in some cases, very innovative new products. Check out our news release section on page 60 for the top 10 list of Cool New Products.

We felt it important to offer you both cannabis and plain packaging articles this issue and offer both views. What do you think of these two hot topics? We welcome your comments on both of these issues.

We have added a new section this issue, Down on Your Corner that brings to you stories of community events organized by local convenience stores from across the country. Each issue we will feature stories of how you and your community are working together for a better community. Please send us your photos and stories to editor@convenienceandcarwash.com If you have upcoming events send them too and we’ll help you promote them on our website and through our social media platforms.

Remember that your business is my business and your success is my success. My open door policy to your valuable feedback remains not only intact, but stronger than ever as we get ready for whatever 2019 brings.

We hope you enjoy the read and wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a healthy, happy and prosperous 2019.

WOMEN IN CARWASH International Conference Niagara Falls Canada APRIL 29–MAY 1, 2019

In the ever changing and competitive landscape of the carwash industry, women are quickly becoming an integral part of successful carwash organizations.

Their impact and leadership can be found in many facets of a carwash organization – from ownership to site management. Convenience & Carwash Canada magazine will recognize and celebrate these women by hosting the first ever Women in Carwash Conference.

FOR EVENT DETAILS INCLUDING SPONSORSHIP, PLEASE CONTACT: Brenda Jane Johnstone phone: 204-489-4215 email: bjj@womenincarwash.com Andrew Klukas phone: 778-772-3057 email: andrew@womenincarwash.com

FOUR DYNAMIC EVENT SPEAKERS! Dr. Peter Hanson: The Joy of Stress Nancy Schmautz: DISC Personality Testing Workshop Azadeh Yaraghi: Your “ONE IDEA”–The Key to Your Success Gary McDougall: Constructive Conflict Management–Dealing with Difficult Clients Strategic Conflict Management

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CONVENIENCE & CARWASH CANADA

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Editor’s Message

PUBLISHER Brenda Jane Johnstone bjjohnstone@convenienceandcarwash.com SALES Cody Johnstone Vice President, Sales 416-838-4674 codyj@convenienceandcarwash.com Brenda Jane Johnstone 204-489-4215 bjjohnstone@convenienceandcarwash.com Diana Signorile National Sales Media Solutions 403-607-8133 diana@convenienceandcarwash.com MANAGING EDITOR Angela Altass editor@convenienceandcarwash.com DIGITAL/SOCIAL MEDIA Eva Chambers echambers@convenienceandcarwash.com DESIGN AND PRODUCTION Doug Coates, Edge Advertising Keith House, Ad Production EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD Ian Burton, Istobal Scott Findlay, Core-Mark Int’l Kim Hansen, MI Petro David Hoy, Peninsula Co-Op Andrew Klukas, WCSA Dave Watson, The Chamois & Convenience Store Ltd. CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Angela Altass Meline Beach Carlo Chatman Curtis Davison Hans Kelso Andrew Klukas Ed Kammerer Andrew Klukas Tania Moffat Dwight Rutledge Del Williams CIRCULATION James Gordon subscriptions@convenienceandcarwash.com WEBSITE www.convenienceandcarwash.com PUBLICATION MAIL AGREEMENT No: 41670539 Return Undeliverable Canadian addresses to: Circulation Department 543 Borebank Street Winnipeg, MB R3N 1E8

Interesting Times

We are living in some very interesting times and at Convenience & Carwash Canada, we strive to provide informative articles that delve into some of the issues affecting this industry and Canadians in general.

The legalization of cannabis in Canada has received much debate and discussion. As it continues to be revealed how this will all play out, Convenience & Carwash Canada is committed to providing you with articles about this interesting point in the country’s history. This issue’s CannaBIZ article looks at the business of cannabis from a retail perspective, featuring 5Buds Cannabis in Saskatchewan.

While so much attention is focused on cannabis, we realize that we mustn’t lose sight of changes that are occurring regarding tobacco in this country. Luc Martial, a 27-year veteran of the tobacco control file in Canada, talks about plain packaging regulations for tobacco products in his article The Plain Packaged Truth on Tobacco.

We also look at the buy Canadian trend that has been popping up in conversations, both face-to-face and on social media, as citizens respond to tariffs and NAFTA (USMCA) negotiations that have highlighted tense Canada-US relations.

These are all serious issues that affect everyone, not just those in this industry, and they are seemingly evolving at a speed that finds many people struggling to keep up with the changes as they filter through the overwhelming opinions that easily prevail on the Internet and on social media websites. Sifting through the noise to form your own informed opinion can be challenging. We aim to provide articles that can shine a light from the perspective of this industry. Let us know if there is anything on your mind, or anything you are interested in reading more about in future issues.

We stand firm in covering this industry as well as we can, and that includes telling your story. In this issue, we are starting a regular feature: Down on Your Corner that will let our readers know what businesses are doing within their communities. I am looking forward to finding out what you are doing and hearing your story about events occurring at your store and/or carwash location. Show your local pride and let everyone know what is going on where you live or work.

As we draw to the close of another year, we reflect upon the changing times we are living in and we contemplate what may lie in the year ahead.

At Convenience & Carwash Canada, while we stay on top of what is new, we also appreciate what never changes and that includes providing the best coverage of this industry that we can and connecting with our readers. Thank you for your feedback during 2018 and here’s to looking ahead to 2019.

Angela Altass Managing Editor

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

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WCSA Report

CONVENIENCE & CARWASH CANADA 7 CONVENIENCE & CARWASH CANADA

Healthier Choice Project Phase 2 The WCSA partnered with Bridge Family the obesity-related illnesses we struggle and Youth Services Society in 2013-2014 with today. We’re excited about playing to deliver a pilot project exploring the our part.” promotion of healthier food choices in The campaign raises awareness of convenience stores. The project fit within healthier choices through in-store the scope of The Bridge’s Healthy Together labeling and educational material.

Coming Food Sector program, which was funded by the Specifically, Healthier 4 YouTM logos Grease Interceptor Public Health Agency identify snacks and Bylaw in Metro of Canada’s (PHAC) drinks with higher nuThe Bridge Youth Vancouver Healthy Weights for tritional value accordChildren (HWC) project. ing to criteria developed and Family Services Retailers offering foodservice in the Metro Creating awareness by dieticians, and a Healthy Together Vancouver –an area covering everything of the availability of program and Western brochure for customers between West Vancouver and Langley – healthier choice prodhas label reading tips should be aware of consultations Convenience Store ucts at c-stores is part and steps for choosing regarding updates to the region’s grease Association (WCSA) of the long-term goal of healthier items. trap regulations. Particularly if you are are launching a ensuring that c-stores This 10-week pilot planning on any renovations to existing play their role as part of will be evaluated by Healthier 4 You sites, take advantage of the opportunity the solution to the prob- initiative with Calgary researchers from the to ensure your sites are compliant. For lems of obesity related University of British Co-op.

Co-op stores at more information search for grease trap illness. It also coincides Columbia. The goal is regulation at www.metrovancouver.org, with what industry re- Kingsland and Auburn to develop an inclusive, and select Grease Interceptor Sizing Bay are stocking search finds we need to industry-wide program.

Tool Feedback to determine the grease do in order to capture up to 75 products interceptor requirements for your a new demographic of identified by dieticians operation. consumers, particularly as healthier than other Labour Market female shoppers who Partnership similar options in the are more likely to seek C-store products not Phase 3 store. out healthier options. to be sold in cannabis The WCSA is pleased The WCSA is preparing shops to announce that a folto request proposals to The BC government is the only Western low-up project is now underway. undertake the next phase of its effort to province that has a mixed public/ The Bridge Youth and Family Services identify and to address recruitment and Healthy Together program and Western retention challenges in the industry. private model for the sale of recreational cannabis. To make a point about fair Convenience Store Association (WCSA) Research during Phase 2 resulted in competition, the WCSA expressed its are launching a Healthier 4 You initia- recommendations to explore nine concerns that products traditionally sold tive with Calgary Co-op. Co-op stores at areas where the association can make in convenience stores, such as lighters Kingsland and Auburn Bay are stocking the most difference. The top four that and rolling papers, should not be sold in up to 75 products identified by dieticians are emerging are: public cannabis outlets. Although we did as healthier than other similar options in • Making the Temporary Foreign not anticipate a precise victory there, a the store.

Worker Program more accessible to broader preemptive victory was achieved.

The launch marks the continuation of employers in the industry The government wrote to confirm that an innovative partnership between the • Identifying and addressing training “…the operating rules governing public two organizations, both committed to gaps and private cannabis retail stores will promoting healthy eating and the posi- • Developing and implementing a be similar to those currently in place for tive role that convenience stores can play. branding strategy to address negaliquor. Although these licensed retailers Says Andrew Klukas, WCSA President: tive and inaccurate perceptions of will be able to sell cannabis and cannabis “Too many people remain unaware that employment in the industry accessories, licensed cannabis retailers modern convenience stores offer a grow- • Exploring and increasing awareness in urban areas will be prohibited from ing range healthier food choices.” This around the potential benefits of selling other products, such as food, gas, program will help change that. “If we automation. clothing and lottery, that are available for can positively influence people’s shop- Approval of grant funding to support sale in retail businesses represented by ping habits at a young age, then as they the project is expected in coming the WCSA.” go through life they won’t have to face months.

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

W CN A PN E R, T S Q UE A LS I TT Y E E QR U IN PME T. N A D A’ S C A R W A S DHE E SX IG DEPENDABLE SERVICE. Q U A L I T Y E Q U I P M E N T.

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NACDA Great to Sea You at the Summit

CONVENIENCE & CARWASH CANADA

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Set along Halifax’s harbourfront, the 2018 National Convenience Industry Summit brought together retailers, distributors and manufacturers from across Canada. During a time of industry disruption, this year’s program focused on Navigating a Changing Channel, with insightful and inspiring speakers as well as plenty of networking opportunities to discuss business.

Business Sessions

Tony Chapman returned for this year’s summit as host for the first day of programing. He kicked things off by moderating an industry panel of senior executives focusing on the state of the industry. Pat Carey, Wallace & Carey; Marc Gagnon, Sobeys Wholesale; Marc Goodman, Suncor Energy; Ian White, Parkland Fuel Corporation and Darcy Bristol, Nestle Canada answered Networking and Socials

But, the summit wasn’t all business!

Attendees had the opportunity to meet and mingle during the opening party, which took place along Halifax’s harbour front. Attendees visited with friends, old and new, at communal tables, toetapped to the musical talents of Signal Hill and ate a boatload of seafood!

We also celebrated at the National Convenience Industry Awards, which combined the Awards of Excellence and

questions dealing with the impact of technology, customer service, innovation and the need for a strong voice in Ottawa.

Attendees also learned about the impact of the global economy on our business with Alex Chausovsky of ITR Economics. Chausovsky took attendees through what the leading indicators are saying about the economy for the rest of 2018 and what the outlook is for 2019.

Chausovsky said that consumers drove the Convenience Innovation Awards into one celebration. Eleven individuals and companies were honoured for excellence and innovation in the industry.

And, no summit would be the same without the Trade Exchange, where distributors and retailers met with manufacturers to learn about new and innovative offerings they can bring to market.

This year was particularly successful and attendees commented that there was a great buzz in the room.

the economy to where it is today, but explained why consumers could be in a weakened position for 2019 relating to the savings rate, stock market, and interest rates.

The day ended with Pete Luckett taking attendees through his journey of creating spaces where customers want to congregate, rather than just shop. With 40 years of retail experience, Luckett explained how an enticing customer experience can be leveraged to influence consumer’s purchasing habits.

Day two of programing kicked off with Carman Allison, a summit favourite. Allison explained how Canada’s dynamic retail landscape has challenged many manufacturers and retailers to evaluate their future growth opportunities. His session explored five emerging trends and provided an update on how the industry is progressing.

The program ended with a look to core values. Scott Stratten took the audience through what is real and what is only smoke screens in the business world today. He explained that at the heart of the industry, while everything has changed, nothing is different. Trust, connection, consistency, and service will always be what connects your business to consumers.

Summit 2019: Mark your Calendars Now!

The 2019 summit will provide relevant research, inspiring keynotes and networking opportunities that will offer insight into future opportunities, challenges and trends. The Summit Planning Committee has started planning for a new year and looks forward to welcoming you to the 2019 summit, set for September 24-26, 2019 in Niagara Falls, Ontario.

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

WOMEN IN CARWASH International Conference – Niagara Falls Canada April 29–May 1, 2019

FOR EVENT DETAILS, TICKETS, INCLUDING SPONSORSHIP, PLEASE CONTACT: Brenda Jane Johnstone phone: 204-489-4215 email: bjj@womenincarwash.com Andrew Klukas phone: 778-772-3057 email: andrew@womenincarwash.com

This is the next segment in our Women in Carwash feature, introducing and celebrating women working within the carwash industry across North America. Following are stories of more inspiring women for you to enjoy.

Kelly Maria VP CHEMICAL SALES & OPERATIONS MARK VII EQUIPMENT INC.

Kelly Maria’s journey in the carwash industry started at Chevron almost 24 years ago. She was the first full-time category canager of Carwash responsible for eight states and 350 wash stations.

Kelly quickly embedded herself into every aspect of the industry, learning as much as possible.

“I may be dating myself, but that was back in the day when carwashes were $1.99 with a fill-up. It was a challenging but very rewarding role. The industry piqued my interest, and it ultimately became a long-term career,” says Kelly.

After Chevron, Kelly worked for Northern California Car Wash Distributor in sales and operations for six years. She was later recruited by Mark VII Equipment to work in the Key Accounts Department, and by June of 2018, Kelly had been promoted to Vice President of US Chemical Operations and Sales.

“I love my job at Mark VII and am in the industry in 1994, there weren’t any blessed to be afforded such great oppor- women in positions like mine. It was defitunities. It is an exciting place to work. We nitely a challenge. You had to have tough have such great employees and manage- skin. Thankfully, there was a handful of ment. Staff members share the warmth of kind gentleman that helped me learn the an extended family. We all truly care about business. our customer’s success!” she says.

“I am pleased to see so many women Kelly looks forward to expanding Mark more involved in the industry today.

VII’s chemical business in the United Women add a diverse perspective that States. She wants to help clients give their complements the industry,” she says. consumers clean, dry and shiny cars using “Diversity is power, and all companies the Total Car Wash Care program. This should be aware of this when they put program is designed to help the customer forth recruiting efforts.” with their carwash from beginning to end, including planning, marketing, management, chemicals, and service. Customer service is Mark VII’s top priority, and the goal is to make life in the carwash as easy as possible for the customer.

Being nominated and serving on the International Car Wash Association Board of Directors was one of Kelly’s Marla Meyer proudest moments. Prior to joining this PRESIDENT board, Kelly had served the association WCA in Educational Sessions for many years. Marla comes from a long line of carwash Outside of work, her greatest joy is being operators. “My family has been in the with her one-and-a-half-year-old grand- business since the 1950’s. I am a thirdson, Ciam. “Spending time with Ciam is generation operator and began my career a great way to unwind and appreciate life,” at the age of 11. I got to do everything from running the cash register to window Kelly shares.

“As a woman in the industry, I have expe- cleaning and pumping gas,” shares Marla Born and raised in Pheonix, Arizona, rienced tough situations. When I started

CONVENIENCE & CARWASH CANADA

Marla completed her education at the University of Arizona. After university, she moved away to pursue opportunities outside of the carwash industry. It didn’t take long for her to find her way back to Pheonix and the family business, Weiss Guys Express Wash. That was over 30 years ago.

Today, Marla is married with two daughters and a furry friend, Luna, their golden retriever. She enjoys the outdoors, especially hiking the different mountain peaks in Arizona. Her family is her motivation, and she loves every moment that they spend together.

When asked what she enjoys most about her job, Marla says, “The variety. No two days are ever the same for me. One day I could be working on financials, the next marketing and purchasing or responding to customer concerns. I thrive on the daily challenges of the business. It keeps me on my toes.”

In 2014, Marla was asked to be on the Board of the Western Carwash Association.

“It was one of my proudest moments in the industry. I was the only woman on the board that year,” she says. Four years later, there are three women sitting on the board, and this year Marla is the WCA president.

“The carwash industry is an amazing industry where people genuinely love what they do. Car washers love to share their knowledge and experiences. Being able to network with other operators and suppliers has been invaluable to me. When we come together as an industry, we are much stronger,” says Marla.

Pam Temko CEO, DOSATRON USA

Growing up in the family-owned business, Pam Temko has held almost every position at Dilution Solutions, a Dosatron International Inc. company. She has extensive knowledge of all the industries where the Dosatron water-powered chemical injection pump can be utilized.

Her father provided a big part of her training. “He wanted me to learn everything I could regarding the carwash industry,” she recalls. This education included

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trade shows, industry events, attending its own set of challenges,” she shares. “I’ve educational training for chemical repre- had to work harder, becoming educated in sentatives, and visiting carwash sites. “By all aspects of the industry, and be ready to speaking with the carwash owners, I have answer tough questions. I am proud of all been able to find out what type of equip- women in the carwash industry, no matment they need to get cars as clean as pos- ter what position they hold. They help to sible while using the smallest amount of bring balance and new ideas to the table.” chemicals and water,” says explained Pam. Pam’s proudest accomplishment was Pam received her MBA from Kennesaw the day her father appointed her CEO. State University and attended the “At that moment I knew he had the trust Harvard Business School Executive in me to continue to build the company, Education Program. “Being a woman in continuing with the high standards of a male-dominated industry comes with continued on page 58

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CannaBIZ

CONVENIENCE & CARWASH CANADA

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By Tania Moffat

OPEN FOR BUSINESS

THE BUSINESS OF CANNABIS FROM A RETAIL PERSPECTIVE

Almost 100 years after alcohol prohibition was lifted in the first Canadian province, Canadians were preparing for the country-wide legalization of marijuana.

Interestingly enough, we entered this time of legalization in much the same way as we did during the expulsion of prohibition; with each province ushering in their own new laws and regulations.

“Our goal is to address any concerns that the community may have before we open.”

Corey Tyacke, retail general manager, 5Buds Cannabis

October 17 saw several entrepreneurs and establishments rush to open their businesses in order to cash in on this highly anticipated and profitable market.

While some businesses raced to be one of the first to open, others were more concerned with ensuring that their entry into the community was a smooth one.

The importance of going slow

5Buds Cannabis is a 100 per cent Saskatchewanowned business that believes the key to success in this industry is preparedness, education and working in harmony with the local community.

Last April, Synergy 5 Investments submitted their proposal for the operation of retail cannabis stores in Saskatchewan. By June, the owners had received approval to operate three stores: Warman (target opening Nov. 30, 2018), North Battleford (target opening January 2019), and Yorkton (target opening Spring 2019).

The four founding members of Synergy 5, Prince Albert First Nations Business Development, Peter Ballantyne Group of Companies, Des Neche Development, and Athabasca Basin Development, share common goals in giving back to their communities and working to improve the lives of the Indigenous communities that own them. Profits from 5Buds Cannabis will go towards building wealth and economic development for 13 First Nations in Saskatchewan and will also support local non-profit organizations.

Corey Tyacke, retail general manager for 5Buds Cannabis, tells us that the company’s primary focus as they prepare to enter the market has been to build

trust and get the community as comfortable with their presence as they can be.

“We have met with some of the school boards, the city, RCMP and police stations,” says Tyacke. “Our goal is to address any concerns that the community may have before we open. The community has been really great, everyone is excited to have us come in, and they are showing an interest in the whole sector. We feel the long-term approach will be the successful one. You can’t rush this because there are too many unknowns right now. The world is watching us and the choices we make may one day influence how cannabis is legalized across the rest of the world. Edibles and beverages are not legal in Canada just yet, and that is okay. It is going to be an interesting year, and we are all going to learn from it.

Next October 17, the industry will look very different from the way it does now. We will have learnt so much during that first year.”

5Buds Cannabis will carry a wide selection of highquality, legal retail goods. Inventory will be sourced from approved producers and include items such as buds, oils, capsules and an elevated accessory lineup. Tyacke tells us that they also plan to venture into paper goods including some of the fun gift items that customers are sure to enjoy. Establishments will be secure and staffed by friendly, professional and knowledgeable team members. 5Buds will also provide guests with information about the safe and responsible use of their products.

Protecting Communities

It is important to 5Buds Cannabis that retail stores have several precautions in place to protect children,

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How Does One Get into the Cannabis Industry?

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

customers and staff. Store windows will be frosted with a security film that also provides a protective membrane to protect against break-ins. Once inside, customers will have to check in with a receptionist. This allows front end staff to confirm customers are of age and ensure that 5buds is being responsible and providing protection for personnel and fellow customers.

The laws surrounding cannabis make it challenging to market. Campaigns cannot depict marijuana or its products to ensure children are not exposed to it. That said, 5Buds Cannabis does have plans to work on their brand exposure.

“We are doing some brand recognition marketing, and we will have billboards coming out,” says Tyacke. “Social media will also be a part of our strategy. Our Facebook site limits entry to those over the age of 19. Linked-In is a great platform to reach professionals and share information about the industry. Ultimately, we need to be careful how we talk about

cannabis as we can only discuss factual information.”

Unlike the prohibition where provinces lifted the ban on alcohol use over the course of several years, the legalization of cannabis is happening country-wide, on one day. While that doesn’t mean all businesses will be open for customers on Oct. 17, it is still an unprecedented event.

The industry will be under intense government, law enforcement, and public scrutiny. How everything will unfold is still unknown, but one thing is for certain, it is bound to be an exciting year as the cannabis industry sets down its roots in our society.

Tania Moffat is a freelance writer, editor, publisher and photographer. She has worked in the publishing industry for the last 15 years on a wide variety of B2B and consumer publications, both in print and online. You can connect with her through her blog www.chiccountrylife.com.

Tyacke shares his story: “When

the issue of legalization was brought up at the federal election two years ago, I was intrigued. I started to read about cannabis and eventually signed up for an online course. I’m originally from the food and beverage industry, and I felt a similar draw when I started learning about wines.

Wine is a beverage with so many personalities and I started to relate it to cannabis. Cannabis is a lot like wine in terms of diversity. When you look at the plant itself, there are so many characteristics – smell, varietal, strains, flavour values, etc.

For example, that first scent of wine, it doesn’t smell too exciting, but as you swirl it around you can start to pull out other scents like blackberry.

Cannabis is a lot like that, and as a food and beverage geek I really enjoyed learning about it.”

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By Luc Martial

The Plain Packaged Truth on Tobacco Canada has long promoted itself as the world leader in tobacco control. The narrative which came to support this

claim strategically emerged through decades of publicly-funded anti-tobacco group lobbying campaigns that were purposely designed to hold their funder (Health Canada) hostage. Over time, Health Canada came to assume sole responsibility for this moniker to the point of now continually abusing it.

Having sat at every side of the table on this public file (tobacco) over the last almost three decades now – I experienced first-hand the health community’s Machiavellian approach to tobacco control, the government’s blatant disregard for the facts or fair play and the industry’s unsuccessful attempts at rightful consideration. The many examples of questionable conduct, from within both the (publicly-funded) anti-tobacco groups and Health Canada itself – are too discouraging to mention. Suffice to say the current narrative on tobacco is an intentionally skewed one with exaggerated facts bordering on fear mongering.

The Push for Plain Packaging

In 2016, the federal government began public (policy) consultations on the issue of plain packaging for tobacco products. By June of 2018, proposed regulations had been drafted, for subsequent procedural public consultation (Canada Gazette, Part I, Volume 152, Number 25: Tobacco Products Regulations (Plain and Standardized Appearance), June 23, 2018). If history is any indicator – completely unjustified and unreasonable plain packing regulations are soon to be introduced in Canada.

In a nutshell, the Tobacco Control Program at Health Canada wants the general public to believe that current tobacco product packaging is a relevant factor in a kid’s decision to try smoking. This, within the context of longstanding and graphically disgusting images covering 75 per cent of the principal display surfaces of cigarette and little cigar packs (98 per cent

in Québec). Adding insult to eventual injury, Health Canada absurdly argues the need to further require plain packaging on niche (adult) tobacco products that kids don’t consume – as a way to protect these kids from these products (i.e. cigars and pipe tobacco). You heard right.

The Evidence

Australia was the first country to initiate plain packaging requirements for all tobacco products on December 1, 2012.

Australia was also the first country who could and subsequently did study the actual impact of plain packaging of tobacco products on smoking trends. Five years after plain packaging was required on all tobacco products sold in Australia, the government commissioned a study on its impact, titled: Study of the Impact of the Tobacco Plain Packaging Measure on Smoking Prevalence in Australia (January 19, 2016). This study, the only actual evidence in existence on plain packaging of tobacco products - concluded that 0.55 per cent of the change in smoking prevalence in Australia (five years in) could be attributed to new labelling requirements on tobacco packaging.

A later addendum to the study would state that this percentage decline could not be directly attributed to plain packaging, as other labeling elements were also introduced at the same time (e.g. graphic health warnings also came to cover 75 per cent – 95 per cent of tobacco product packaging).

France (January 1, 2017) and the United Kingdom (May 20, 2017) followed suit and introduced more targeted plain packaging initiatives in 2017 – aimed at mass-market products (i.e. cigarettes and RYO) of relevance to youth initiation. The French government, for its part, has since acknowledged that a year after implementation of their plain packaging regulations (which also included larger health warnings on tobacco products) - tobacco sales actually increased in the country. As importantly, the government acknowledged that there was no evidence that plain packaging had prevented smoking initiation.

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Despite the clear evidence that plain packaging doesn’t work – Health Canada can be expected to once again secure the public mandate to push this initiative through. And in this initiative’s wake – companies will go out of business, a wide variety of niche (adult) tobacco products which cannot comply will unnecessarily disappear form the marketplace and four million well-informed, responsible adult Canadians will find themselves one again further stigmatized, marginalized and vilified for their legal lifestyle choices.

The Trick – How a Lie Becomes a Law

The Tobacco Control Program has for decades subtly discriminated against the tobacco industry – undermining their right to equitable and meaningful consultation. This discrimination has been encouraged by the department and allowed by the government.

But this subtlety is now over. Health Canada now formally, publicly and essentially states that anyone associated with the industry need not opine on matters of proposed policy on tobacco. In other words, they (you) are excluded from discussing, debating and/or challenging the government’s proposed policies on tobacco or the arguments and evidence supporting these. The only allowable incursion into public consultation is as technical advisors within the context of regulatory feasibility. More on this point, whether you can comply or not remains

irrelevant.

Health Canada justifies this public discrimination against you on the basis of their obligations as a signatory member to the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC).

In other words - Health Canada has effectively rigged the process to now only hear (and vote count) from those who share the same professional goals and/or are publicly funded by them. This rigged process, in the end, comes to secure the public approval they need to secure approval for the initiative while diluting Health Canada’s accountability on this arguably fraudulent behavior.

But Wait There is More

Despite the fact that this plain packaging lie is likely a done deal and soon to become law, Health Canada is not one to rest on its laurels. More unjustified, world-precedent victories are to be had.

Health Canada has just recently initiated a new round of public consultations on New health-Related Labelling for Tobacco Products. Those who have the strength and courage to witness what your government has in store for you next, can see Health Canada’s proposal at the following link: www.canada.ca/en/ health-canada/programs/consultation-tobacco-labelling/ document.html

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One of the focuses of this newly proposed policy direction is to have warnings directly printed on the tobacco products themselves. It sounds absurd, because it is absurd. And here again, if you work for a tobacco company, if you own or work for a store that sells tobacco, if you consume tobacco products – you are officially disqualified from sharing your opinions with Health Canada on eventual law that will come to directly impact your life and/or livelihood.

If You Are Tired of Being Bullied, Dismissed and Discarded

If being discriminated against is a relevant issue to you – then take the time to immediately contact the people below and tell them that enough is enough, that you are tired of being bullied into submission and that this is Canada. All Canadians have the right to consideration and equitable treatment – no matter their (legal) life choices.

If you are a retailer, you can contact us and we will send you an easy to print poster that you can put up in your store – encouraging your tobacco consumers to also contact the government and let them know how they feel about being further stigmatized and marginalized.

IF YOU ARE FED UP WITH BEING DISMISSED AND DISCARDED BY YOUR OWN GOVERNMENT – let us know if you would wish to participate in a complaint to the Canadian Human Rights Commission on this matter of discrimination. Let’s hold Health Canada accountable to treating all Canadians equally and to repealing their publicly stated discrimination policy against Canadians associated with the legal tobacco industry.

PRIME MINISTER OF CANADA

The Right Honourable Justin Trudeau Email: justin.trudeau@parl.gc.ca Tel.: 514-277-6020 Fax: 514-277-3454 MINISTER OF HEALTH

The Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor Email: Ginette.PetitpasTaylor@parl.gc.ca Tel.: 613-992-8072 Fax: 613-992-8083

Luc Martial is a 27-year veteran of the tobacco control file in Canada, having held key postings in the tobacco control and national health communities, the federal government (Tobacco Control Program at Health Canada) and the industry.

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By Meline Beach

CHIPS… CHOCOLATE… LEMONS?

Oh My!

You read that right. From simple snacks to fresh produce,

Corner Store (GFCS) Initiative, c-stores were encouraged to inyour local c-store has evolved quite a bit since its start in the crease access to fresh vegetables and fruits and healthy staple 1920s. Even while I was growing up, I remember running out foods in neighbourhoods with limited access to grocery stores, to the local corner to buy one cent candies, a bag of chips, or known as “food desert” areas – meaning communities without a carton of milk if we ran out before our scheduled grocery a grocery store within a relatively close distance.

Wallace and Carey, a leading distribution and logistics comshopping day.

Nowadays, convenience stores offer everything from tra- pany, distributes both fresh ingredients and freshly prepared ditional confectionary, salty snacks, specialized cold and hot products, including sandwiches, wraps, subs and trays, as well drinks to a variety of household products, stationary items and as carrots, celery and other stable easy grab-and-go items.

“Our main grab-and-go fruit items are bananas, apples, orangfresh foodservice – both prepackaged and prepared on site.

“We have a good variety of fresh foodservice items in our es and many other fresh prepared clam shell fruit cups/trays stores,” says Ramona Roberts, who owns Big Dog Convenience with grapes, kiwi, mango, plums, and melon,” says Mark Rusk, in Prince Edward Island. In business for over 25 years, Roberts national sales and engagement manager at Wallace & Carey. is co-owner and operator, along with her husband Austin, of “While many of our customers need raw ingredients to prepare their three c-stores, each with a gas bar. “The variety of fresh their own fresh offering on site, like meat, cheese and condifood items differ by location, depending on traffic patterns and ments, other customers appreciate the simplicity of a finished fresh food product.” availability.”

In terms of distribution, often special requirements need to In terms of fresh foodservice, Roberts is referring to bananas, apples, oranges, lemons and limes – just to name a few. One be considered when delivering fresh foodservice items. Wallace of their stores is permitted to sell alcohol, of a select few, and & Carey take pride in being Good Distribution Practices as result, lemons and limes sell well as a garnish for various (GDP) certified and leverage tri-temp warehouses and fleet for quality-controlled storage and transportation at optimum drinks.

“In our largest store, we sell bananas for the same price as temperatures.

Rusk adds: “We work with multiple manufacturers for our the chain grocers so people can always have a very affordable protein, vegetables, fruits and baked goods. Some are national healthy snack,” says Roberts.

A few Quickie convenience stores throughout the Ottawa in scope but many are local that can provide regional knowlarea also sell fresh produce as part of their foodservice offering. edge and expertise that ultimately brings the best and freshest Originally as part of Ottawa Public Health (OPH) Good Food products available.”

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“Fresh produce in c-stores is a major growth opportunity as consumers seek out smaller, convenience shopping excursions,” Source: NACS report, Building the Business Case for Produce at Convenience Stores.

According to a NACS Sept 2015 customer survey, “Nearly half of all consumers (48 per cent) say that convenience stores are a place where they can buy fresh produce, a five-point jump from just a year earlier.”

Working with a fresh produce supplier, one of Quickie’s largest convenience stores in downtown Ottawa not only sells apples and bananas, but also onions, potatoes, carrots, lemons, limes, cucumbers, and green peppers.

“Our downtown store is located in a food desert – the closest grocery store is located more than a 10-minute drive away,” says Dave Kary, merchandising category manager for Quickie convenience stores. Working in convenience industry for over 40 years, Kary has seen a lot of change in this business from the introduction of coffee to most recently, frozen and fresh fruits and vegetables.

“While not all of our c-stores carry fresh produce, several have a four-foot openfaced cooler for additional foodservice items, such as salads, sandwiches, vegetables and dips.”

Foodservice is a value-added offering that makes c-stores a destination stop and differentiator for customers seeking a healthy meal on the go. Prepackaged items with a five day to three-week shelf life from specialized manufacturers and central commissaries create a fresh perception. A variety of options, such as Pad Thai, Greek and Italian salads appeal to a wider demographic who crave global flavours.

“Having our fresh foodservice items made at one central location allows us to become really good at managing a foodservice program and allows us to have controlled facilities with dedicated foodservice professionals and delivery people,” says Roberts. “We even recently started delivering to other store owners in rural areas, independents just like us, who are looking for quality foodservice. I don’t think we could have developed that if we had stayed in-house.”

Kary agrees with this approach and adds: “While it could be less expensive for independents to purchase fresh produce on sale directly at various grocers, that effort takes them out of their store and away from running their business.”

Customer feedback, store location and placement within the store are key determining factors for a successful fresh foodservice program. C-store retailers should ask themselves a number of questions before getting started, including: Who is my target audience and my customer demographic? What fresh foods might

appeal to them? Where is the closest grocery store located? Do I have room in my existing floor plan to accommodate fresh food racks and coolers? Can I shift anything around within my current store layout to allow for fresh foodservice? Does my current distributor offer fresh foodservice and what might they suggest? What minimum orders are required? How much fresh produce should I order and how long would it take to sell before it spoils?

“When we started doing the core items in-house, customer feedback was immediate and visible,” says Roberts. “We quickly learned what was popular and what was not. New items were introduced in small quantities and sales were monitored.”

Kary advises c-store retailers to start small when trying to develop their fresh foodservice program. The key is to keep the product fresh, visually appealing and in a manner that is accessible. Bananas near pastries and coffee work well together.

“People never tire of a ham and cheese or chicken salad sandwich if they are piled high and the bread is fresh,” says Roberts.

In terms of waste, Roberts gauges the season and local events which impact sales and keeps excess to a minimum through careful management.

And if planned and executed well, there is some money to be made with a fresh foodservice program with an average markup of 40 per cent. While it’s not a get rich scheme, fresh foodservice is a healthy option to offer customers and can be deemed value-added, as a banana and a bottle of water together can cost less than a chocolate bar.

“A great local food program can make an occasional customer into one who plans their day around your offering,” say Roberts. “Snacks are great but real food creates a real dedicated customer base.”

Meline Beach is a Toronto-based communications practitioner and frequent contributor to Convenience & Carwash Canada. In addition to freelance writing, Meline provides communications and public relations support to businesses across Canada. She can be reached at mlb_communications@rogers.com.

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Down On Your Corner Down on Your Corner is a new regular feature to Convenience & Carwash Canada.

We know there are many great stories out there and we would like to share yours with our readers.

Let us know about your news – whether it’s a new program, a big contest, a re-design or new look – whatever is happening with your business, by sending an e-mail to editor@convenienceandcarwash.com for editorial consideration in this section.

7-Eleven Launches Emissions Offset Program at Gas Pumps With a goal of planting 20,000 trees across Canada by October 2019, 7-Eleven Canada launched RENEW, an emissions offset program at 61 7-Eleven fueling locations in the Vancouver area.

“What is really great about this program is that customers don’t have to do anything different,” states Nick Angelo, senior director of Operations, 7-Eleven Canada. “They just fill up their tanks and we’ll do what it takes to offset carbon emissions.”

Tree Canada and the BC Chamber of Commerce helped launched 7-Eleven’s RENEW with a tree sapling giveaway and ribbon cutting on National Tree Day, September 26.

The RENEW program is 7-Eleven’s collaboration with GreenPrint, a company promoting sustainability through the retail petroleum, fleet and consumer product industries.

The program is the first of its kind in Canada.

Customers at participating fueling stations automatically offset their tailpipe emissions by purchasing the same high-quality fuel. For every litre of fuel purchased, GreenPrint calculates tailpipe emissions and 7-Eleven invests a corresponding amount into reforestation, green-scape projects, wildlife protection and

renewable energy projects. As a result, tailpipe emissions may be offset by up to 30 per cent.

To go the extra mile, Vancouver area 7-Eleven employees have already begun planting trees as Tree Canada volunteers.

“Trees reduce the effects of climate change, they clean our air, they provide habitat to sustain biodiversity, and they help us live longer, healthier lives,” states Laura Cottle, a Tree Canada leader in Vancouver. “We thank 7-Eleven for their commitment to a greener Canada.”

CONVENIENCE & CARWASH CANADA

Tree Canada and the BC Chamber of Commerce helped launched 7-Eleven’s RENEW with a tree sapling giveaway and ribbon cutting on National Tree Day, September 26.

“It’s important to us, as leaders in the industry, to find ways to support our communities, to give back, and to make a difference,” said Angelo. “This program’s proven success in several U.S. states makes it an important strategy to help us meet our corporate social responsibility targets. RENEW furthers our efforts to reduce or offset our environmental footprint and offers customers an opportunity to make an impact and help their local communities.”

To date, as a result of the existing RENEW program in the U.S., more than 70,000 trees have been planted and over 24,000 tons of carbon has been offset.

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“7-Eleven is an innovator in the gasoline industry,” said Pete Davis, founder and chief executive officer of GreenPrint. “They have proven their commitment to customers and the environment by expanding the RENEW program to Canada, continuing to seek out ways to better the earth and help the local communities where their stores reside.”

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Down On Your Corner Rabba Fine Foods Introduces New Look Rabba Fine Foods recently introduced a new look at its 4869 Dundas Street West location in Etobicoke, Ontario.

The company describes the re-design as being that of an urban, Europeaninspired market concept featuring new lighting, carefully-curated design elements, wider aisles and a greater selection of fresh produce, deli options, and hot-and-ready home meal replacements.

“Our customers have been telling us they appreciate selection, space, and décor, as well as smaller packages for urban living and quality food options that are ready to enjoy,” said Peter Lombardi, category manager, Rabba Fine Foods.

“We’ve gathered a strong team of passionate grocers, both inside and outside of the company, to work together to adjust our store layout, selection, and décor and we’re very pleased with the results.”

Rick Rabba, president, Rabba Fine Foods said the company plans to continue with renovations to other locations. Rabba is prepared to roll out the Etobicoke store design to all 34 locations in the future.

Rabba said the Dundas Street West store was chosen as the first to be re-designed out of loyalty to the

neighbourhood and the store remained open throughout the renovation process.

“We’ve been here for over 30 years,” commented Rabba during an official unveiling of the new look celebration on September 29. “This was the second store to be named Rabba. It’s been a fixture in this community, and we wanted to give our customers a first-class store.”

The store includes a Tim Hortons coffee section, which Rabba notes as an important aspect of the re-design, along with their grab-and-go department. He also hinted that Rabba Fine Foods might be looking to open some new stores in the near future.

As well as being enjoyed by customers and staff, the September 29 celebration was attended by several guests, including Etobicoke-Lakeshore MP James Maloney, Ward 5 Councillor Justin Di Ciano, and Etobicoke Centre MPP Kinga Surma. Di Ciano presented Rabba Fine Foods founder Jack Rabba with a celebratory scroll from the city. He congratulated Rabba Fine Foods on the re-design and remarked that it was the result of the hard work of entrepreneurs to whom he wished much future success.

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Registration will open in November.

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SERVICE & CONSTRUCTION MANAGERS CONFERENCE Seelbach Hilton Hotel • Louisville, KY Make plans now to join us in Louisville for the event of the year for industry professionals. With a variety of roundtable discussions, networking opportunities and world-class speaker Randy Disharoon, you won’t want to miss this conference. Registration is set to open in early December.

MAY 1-3

PEI WOMEN CONFERENCE Saguaro Scottsdale Hotel • Scottsdale, AZ The annual conference provides valuable industry insight, career leadership ideas, and time to network with your peers. Between the PEI Women Executive session, roundtable discussions, and keynote speakers, there is something for YOU. Plus, plenty of opportunities to enjoy each other, the Arizona sunset or perhaps an optional tour. Registration is set to open in early December.

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Sparkling water has remained on the what’s hot AC Nielsen president’s report for Convenience Retailing for the last eight quarters.

The most recent report has it at number one, delivering 50 per cent dollar growth.

By Curtis Davison

Cold Beverage Trends One of the toughest challenges we face in convenience retailing is how do we deliver improved revenue margins and bottom line profits when some of largest categories such as tobacco, beverages and snacks are flat to declining in unit volume?

Convenience retailing is consistently showing modest revenue growth of four per cent over each of the latest 52 week periods. This growth is being primarily driven by inflation. This strategy is not a sustainable model during the tougher economic times that we foresee on the horizon.

Cold beverages has been one of convenience stores largest categories and is currently delivering on average three per cent growth. This is predominately being driven by lower carbonated soft drink sales, which represent the largest share of cold beverages. There are retailers who are showing significantly better results across all indicators, revenue volume and profit.

You may want to ask them how they did it or what supplier has

the magic bullet but the answer is right in front of you every day with your consumer.

Consumer trends are shifting but has your strategy in convenience retailing changed? Consumer trends are changing faster than ever. Has our space management approach for beverages changed? If not, you will never capture the rapid pace of change that is going on with consumers. In the 90’s when category management become popular consumer trends shifted about as fast as our dial up internet. Today the amount of information obtained daily and the pace of change means what I like today will change tomorrow. Yes, big categories sustain tough times but we cannot sit around and or expect them to start to grow again. Those retailers producing greater results have taken an approach to space management that has both art and science but the most important factor is they also apply forward thinking. So, I say, stop looking in your rear-view mirror, you’re in a self-driving car and the world is changing

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Add space for not only the strongest growing segments of today but also listen to your consumer and understand how and what they intend to purchase in the future.

rapidly right in front of your eyes. Have the courage to change with it and reap the benefits.

In the beverage category, there are segments of business that are producing double digit growth year after year. Some of these segments include energy drinks, premium water, ice teas and sparkling water.

Sparkling water has remained on the what’s hot AC Nielsen Presidents Report for Convenience Retailing for the last eight quarters. The most recent report has it at number one, delivering 50 per cent dollar growth. This beverage segment is being led by, but not driven by, the brands Perrier and San Pellegrino - more so by consumers who are demanding all natural low to no calories.

So back to the harder question how do we deliver accretive growth to our business in a very large category? Add space for not only the strongest growing segments of today but also listen to your consumer and understand how and what they intend to purchase in the future. If your suppliers are coming in to tell you about the next great product they have ensure that their belief in the product and what it will add is consumer based. If you not sure, talk to your consumers. They are right in front of you every day trying to give you money for products they want vs products we want them to want.

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By Angela Altass

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TARIFFS AND BUYING CANADIAN Buy Canadian has become a common slogan on social media and in everyday conversations but does it mean that retailers should start placing more emphasis on Canadian products in-store?

“The tensions over NAFTA (USMCA) brought attention to customers and there have been lots of discussions on buying Canadian-made products,” notes

Hamed Aghakhani, assistant professor of marketing, Rowe School of Business, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia.

“Stocking more Canadian products on shelves may help in boosting Canadian identity and consumers may feel good in the short time.”

However, cautions Aghakhani, it is important to note that, for retailers, shelf space is expensive and, at the end of the day, they also want to see profit from selling their products.

“There are many products that Canada has competitive advantage on, such as maple syrup, potatoes, barley and fish, but there are many other products that we don’t have the top-quality version in the market,” says Aghakhani. “It is in the best interest of the retailer to balance their products. Overall, increasing the number of Canadian made products is good, but adding a product to a shelf means removing another product. My suggestion to retailers is to promote those Canadian-made products that they already have in store, instead of just increasing the number of products.”

Retailers should focus on products that have the potential for competitive advantage,

“We should absolutely encourage people to purchase products that are made in Canada but that doesn’t mean we have to reinvent the wheel,”

says Aghakhani.

“We should absolutely encourage people to purchase products that are made in Canada but that doesn’t mean we have to reinvent the wheel,” he states. “To have a successful Canadian product, we eventually have to compete with other products and other manufacturers. Each country has limited resources, so it is important to assign our resources to those areas that bring the highest yield.”

Neal Brothers Foods is just one example of a Canadian company that has felt the impact of the Canadian-U.S. tariff battle.

“Tariffs have affected one of our biggest lines – La Croix Water,” states Peter Neal, cofounder, Neal Brothers Foods. “It’s a massive brand and it has been hit with a 10 per cent tariff and, in the food industry there isn’t a

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

“If you have an item that has many good merits from packaging to taste in all the boxes that need to be ticked for whatever category that product is in, and it is a Canadian item, then we should be doing what we can as a community, as a country to support each other,” says Neal.

ton of margin to begin with, so to be hit with a 10 per cent tariff and not have all of our retailer partners respond and accept a price increase is crushing. It’s hurtful.”

Neal says he is hoping that Canada and the United States will soon settle the tariff situation.

“I am really hoping that now that we have come to a decent agreement, as far as we can tell, in reworking NAFTA (USMCA) that the tariffs will be reversed soon,” states Neal. “I am hoping we can walk away from these penalties. They’re hurting a lot of manufacturers across Canada and they’re hurting a lot of U.S. manufacturers as well. So, let’s get on with it. Let’s get along again. I can’t understand why, when we’ve come to an overall agreement, these tariffs are still in place.”

Now is as good a time as ever to promote Canadian products, says Neal.

“If you have an item that has many good merits from packaging to taste in all the boxes that need to be ticked for whatever category that product is in, and it is a Canadian item, then we should be doing what we can

as a community, as a country to support each other,” says Neal. “And, it can’t just be done on sheer numbers because if you are to look at traditional, historical sales from U.S. products, chances are they’re going to beat you almost any day. But, I think it is smart to look at the advantages that come with Canadian products, such as proximity, freshness to market and currency. You are going to mitigate currency swings assuming the ingredients, etc. for the Canadian product aren’t overly influenced by U.S. currency.”

Neal spends time with small start-up Canadian companies as a mentor to help them get on their feet and feels that retailers should keep an open mind when it comes to dealing with a smaller Canadian brand.

“I meet with aspiring food entrepreneurs or new start-ups from zero to five years, on a regular basis,” says Neal. “Often times, they are not as savvy as companies who have a broker involved or have been through the process on a larger scale longer. Their challenges in ensuring that all the boxes are checked to get their products from

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manufacturer to the store shelf are real and I think retailers could help out almost in a mentoring position and try to make the transition smoother for them. I think retailers would be smart to say, let’s give them a little bit extra time and they’ll give our store a point of differentiation.”

Consumers are looking for many factors when they make purchasing decisions, notes Aghakhani.

“Quality, price, delivery, convenience and country of origin (COO) are among these factors,” he says. “COO is one factor and it is usually a positive factor when a product comes from a country where that product is well known, such as wine from France, caviar from Iran or chocolate from Belgium. It is very difficult to increase the value of some of these variables in short term. Due to recent news, Canadian consumers may value more on COO for products that are coming from Canada, but in the long term, they will again go back to their regular model of decision making.”

Seeking to purchase Canadian products

The

may not be as easy as it sounds.

“Looking for Canadian products doesn’t mean that Canadians have to purchase Blackberry over Samsung or Apple,” says Aghakhani. “Even if they decide to go with Blackberry, can we say that the Blackberry cell phone is completely Canadian? It is probably designed in Canada with the help of engineers from all over the world and most probably manufactured in China. So, it’s not 100 per cent Canadian.”

At the end of the day, price will be one of the top factors as to why consumers choose product A over product B, says Aghakhani.

To continue reading the remainder of this article please visit: www.convenienceandcarwash.com

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By Meline Beach

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S A LT Y S N A C K S

— BOLD AND H E A LT H Y Salt is one of five taste buds that we seek to satisfy when we crave various snack foods like potato chips, pretzels, popcorn, nuts and even chocolate.

According to recent reports, demand for salty snacks is expected to rise in nominal terms at the manufacturer level. However, what seems to have taken the category by

storm are newer manufacturers and their innovative product offering with extreme flavours and better for you snacks for both bold and health-conscious consumers.

Take for example, Three Farmers, a Saskatoon-based manufacturer of plant-based protein snacks. They first introduced Roasted Chickpeas in 2014, followed by roasted green peas, called Pea Pops, in 2017. Their newest innovation, Crunchy Little Lentils, launched this fall.

A good source of protein, minerals and vitamins, lentils have been traditionally used in soups, stews and salads. Now, they have found their way to the snacking category.

“We are seeing a lot of trends in the snacking space right now which speaks well to our drive and innovation around roasted pulse snacks,” says Stacey Sauer, sales and business development coordinator at Three Farmers. “With busier lifestyles, consumers are eating snacks as meal replacements and are looking for healthy, convenient, on-the-go options. Our pulse snacks are hitting the mark with upwards of seven grams of plant-based protein per serving, and being nut-free and gluten-free, they make a great school snack for students.”

Three Farmers has the advantage of being in close proximity to their raw ingredient. Primarily grown in Saskatchewan,

Canada is the leading producer and exporter of lentils in the world.

“With a significant supply of this raw commodity available right in our backyard, it made sense for our company to add this mighty pulse into our snack line up,” says Sauer. “We recently invested $1.5 million into our roasting facility in southern Saskatchewan, which meant we had the capacity to add another snack line into the rotation.”

In addition to having great access to Canadian-grown ingredients, Three Farmers also hopes to leverage its Canadian roots as a value proposition for consumers interested in shopping local and supporting Canadian brands in what could be deemed as a crowded and competitive salty snacks category.

Today, Three Farmers’ roasted pulse snacks are available in over 3,000 retailers across Canada from major grocery stores to c-stores, to smaller independent health food stores, with strongest sales in Ontario and Western Canada.

Based in Western Canada, McSweeney’s is also a proud Canadian company that uses Canadian meat ingredients for their convenient premium jerky and meat snacks – a key product differentiator in a highly competitive category, based on its popularity for high protein, low fat, and little sodium content amongst health-conscious consumers.

“All of our meat products are 100 per cent gluten-free and naturally-smoked across all of our 53 skus,” says Kylie Landry,

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

Three Farmers introduced Roasted Chickpeas in 2014, followed by roasted green peas, called Pea Pops, in 2017. Their newest innovation, Crunchy Little Lentils, launched this fall.

McSweeney’s brand manager, who has seen the brand grow over the last 12 years. “This is something not all of our competitors can claim.”

McSweeney’s offers a variety of flavours, such as original, hot and sweet, Montreal steak spice, and hot teriyaki, to appeal to an evolving customer base, which includes more females and youth.

Peanut-free, these easy-peel meat products, as a natural form of protein, make great snacks for school, especially their Pep & Ched combination pack, featuring a pepperoni and cheese stick combo pack, as their most popular product in the C&G channel.

A provider of specialty and natural foods Tree of Life carries a wide variety of salty snacks in their portfolio, including popcorn, potato chips, veggie chips and even dehydrated cheese. Brands under the Tree of Life banner include: Angie’s Boom Chicka Pop; Terra’s chips made with exotic vegetable, plantain or sweet potato ingredients; Sensible Portions Garden Veggie Straws and Moon Cheese, an all-natural, gluten-free crunchable cheese product, high in protein and calcium.

“Our mantra at Tree of Life is to help Canada eat well so we are always open to representing new and intriguing brands that are on trend, such as veggie-based, bean-based, plant-based and gut-based products that fall on either the premium-upscale and/or health and wellness spectrum,” says Mike Cunningham, marketing insights team lead at Tree of Life. While their products are on trend, Cunningham adds that they’d like to see more of their products distributed within the C&G channel. “As consumers start to switch to a healthier mindset, we are finding a little bit more of an opportunity to get some of these niche health and wellness brands listed.”

While traditional salty snacks like pretzels, corn and potato chips continue to dominate the category and remain as staple snacks in the C&G channel, many c-store retailers are noticing a change in the market involving portion sizes, sweet and salty combinations and bold seasonings.

“Innovation is driving the sales of salty snacks,” says Gerry Bes, who manages 29 Little Short Shop convenience stores across Southern Ontario. “It is the category with the most new product launches that is driving interest and excitement across diverse brands, flavours, textures, price offerings and sheer variety.”

As individual tastes continue to expand beyond traditional flavours, many manufacturers are taking note of international

influences with their snack offerings. This includes Aubrey’s Gourmet Chips & Sauces, who specializes in bold flavours across their hot snacks, sauces and condiments.

“Today’s flavours are influenced by global markets, including southeast Asia, north Africa, Korea and the Middle East,” says Aubrey Zelman of Aubrey’s Gourmet Chips & Sauces. “We have carved a niche for our extreme heat kettle cooked potato chips and work with the support of our retailers to build a loyal consumer.”

Their Rebel Gourmet kettle chips are available in three flavours: Jalapeño white cheddar, Chipotle hot wings, and Habernero bar-b-q and are sold at Shell, Mac’s and a number of independent c-stores predominately in western Canada, the prairies and Ontario. While Habernero bar-b-q is their top seller, their niche product offering caters to people who like heat and spice – Zelman believes that equates to approximately 10 per cent of the market.

“We haven’t even scratched the surface of the snacking category,” says Zelman, who believes his product offering is a great profit opportunity for retailers. “Priced at a 40 per cent profit margin, our chips, paired with a beverage to doust the heat, create a perfect profitable, multi-buy opportunity.”

Leading distribution and logistics company Wallace & Carey has also noticed a change in the salty snack category.

“We are seeing an influx of ancient grain snacks, such as flax and quinoa and more meat snacks,” says Mark Rusk, national sales and engagement manager at Wallace & Carey. “The wonderful mosaic of diverse cultures that make up Canada is what will make this category grow and be successful in the future. I can hardly wait to see what the future brings!”

From bold flavours to healthy options, the salty snack category continues to evolve as manufacturers will look to distribution companies and C&G retailers to list and sell their innovative products to consumers who crave change in a typical traditional category. As snacking continues to replace heavy meals, c-stores will be a prime destination for innovative, bold and healthy, salty snacks.

Meline Beach is a Toronto-based communications practitioner and frequent contributor to Convenience & Carwash Canada. In addition to freelance writing, Meline provides communications and public relations support to businesses across Canada. She can be reached at mlb_communications@ rogers.com.

CONVENIENCE & CARWASH CANADA

By Hans Kelso

37

Mobilizing Canadian Payments

The financial marketplace in Canada is a fundamentally conservative environment, with the majority of Canadians

conducting their business with a small number of large institutions, buttressed by the near universal accessibility of the Interac network.

It should then be no surprise that mobile payments, and more generally digital payments, have failed to catch fire in Canada like they have in other parts of the world. For example, according to Visa Canada only six per cent of Canadian consumers report using mobile wallets frequently.

WHAT MAKES CANADIANS SO RELUCTANT?

The slow uptake of new mobile and digital payment methods in Canada is likely a result of three factors.

1. Comfort with existing methods. Canadians have come to rely on their existing debit and credit cards for most if not all of their day to day purchases. This creates enormous inertia that alternative payment methods will need to overcome.

2. Lack of perceived value. Customers don’t currently feel

that pulling out and using their phone is any more convenient or useful than using a debit or credit card for conducting purchases. This directly limits the available value of mobile payment methods.

3. Perceived lack of security. According to Visa only 35 per cent of Canadian respondents felt virtual wallets are very secure and worries persist among consumers about criminals accessing payment information over the air.

MOBILITY DRIVERS

With these obstacles in mind, changes are coming in the next few years that will shake up the marketplace and move Canadian consumers closer to the global average of mobile payment and digital payment utilization: • The comfort of familiarity. Mobile payments are, at this point, quite new to the Canadian landscape. With time, the idea of paying for goods with your phone either in-store or online will be seen as increasingly normal. Canadians went through the same process with the launch of Interac

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

and core function of mobile and other digitally enabled devices. The first of these steps will come to market in the form of online card payments using mobile credentials, which will substantially reduce Card Not Present fraud and enhance the consumer buying experience.

• Mobile payments will, like Interac Flash payments before it, gain broader acceptance from the Canadian market as the population grows accustomed to the technology and the new payment options that have been made possible. A new generation of consumers for whom paying with their phone is a common or even default method of conducting transactions is coming of age. What form of mobile payment will be dominant is still to be decided with the plethora of firms and methods competing for spending primacy.

Flash. When Flash launched in 2011 it was met with an overwhelming shrug by Canadian consumers, to the point that articles such as “Interac Flash: Why aren’t more people using it?” were being written three years later. Today, Flash, and other contactless options, have been embraced by consumers with 52 per cent people reporting regular use of the feature.

• Value expansion. As the market for new applications and services continues to develop, the fundamental value proposition of using mobile and digital payment channels will grow with it. This developing trend is evident both with the introduction of new entrants, such as peer-to-peer app Venmo and the expansion into Canada of large international players, such as Chinese giants AliPay and WeChat Pay. With increasing options, Canadians will find it easier to transition from single purpose payment applications to a more holistic embrace of the technological possibilities; • Consumer education. As part of their movement into mobile and digital payments, Canadian financial institutions are educating their customers about the safety and reliability of mobile payments. As consumers receive reassurances from their trusted financial institutions about the security features embedded in the payment applications as well as the business rules which protect everyone involved in the transaction, consumer confidence in the overall payment channel will grow and friction to adoption will decrease; and • New channels. Digital payments will soon be extended to a huge number of Internet-connected self-ordering devices that will use the new tokenized mobile credential infrastructure. In parallel with the continued digitalization of consumer experiences in banking and many other verticals, digital payments will become a fundamental

IS YOUR BUSINESS FUTURE PROOFED?

Digital and mobile payments will reach a takeoff point in the Canadian market in the next few years and it behooves all participants in the payments ecosystem to consider some questions before that point is reached: • How will you determine which digital payment methods you will support?

• What partnerships do you have available to navigate this payments transition?

• Will your company be best served by adopting a leading edge approach to digital payments or waiting until the environment stabilizes before investing?

• What steps will your company need to take to remain part of your customers’ value chain as preferred payment methods diversify?

• What strategic investments will your company need to make to participate in the next wave of mobile and digital payment offerings? and • How will your company interact with the next generation of payment options that eschew the traditional banking infrastructure?

Understanding where, how and with whom your firm will integrate with in the new payments ecosystem will be a key success factor for firms as the mobile and digital payments avalanche gains momentum even with conservative Canadian consumers.

Hans Kelso is a senior analyst and the mobile payment product owner with Cardtronics Canada. He is focused on delivering effective and affordable mobile solutions for Canadian financial institutions. Cardtronics Canada (www. cardtronics.ca) has been providing payment and ATM solutions to the Canadian market since 1999.

Visa Canada, “Canadian consumers trust familiar payment methods; may be slower to adopt emerging forms of payment, according to Visa study”, press release, March 28, 2018.

Visa Canada, “Canadian consumers”, ibid.

Rob Carrick, “Interac Flash: Why aren’t more people using it?”, The Globe and Mail, May 12, 2018.

Visa Canada, “Canadian consumers”, ibid.

CONVENIENCE & CARWASH CANADA 

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

THE

Future of Car Washing is a Dream

By Tania Moffat

Precisely calibrated water pressure combined with lubricating shampoos, polishes and neoprene foam materials provide a residue and scratch-free cleaning.

Dreams Eco Xpress Car Wash makes getting your car washed, well, a dream. Located in

model to Alberta. This is the first express tunnel in Calgary and the surrounding area.”

Okotoks, Alberta, 15 minutes south of Calgary, Dreams provides the most technologically advanced carwash available. The carwash is equipped with the Express Conveyorized Tunnel Car Wash model, a system that allows operators to keep costs down and process a larger number of vehicles in less time while still providing a superior wash.

“This model is fairly new to Canada but has been growing in popularity in the United States and worldwide,” says Farouk Haji, one of the partners who own Dreams. “We saw value in bringing the

The group worked with PD McLaren to build Dreams because they wanted to offer their customers a superior quality wash, something PD McLaren delivers. “Our model incorporates Peco Car Wash’s tunnel system from the U.S. The conveyorized extract tunnel can process multiple vehicles at a time and is capable of washing up to 80 vehicles per hour,” says Haji.

Dan Findlay, national sales manager for PD

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CONVENIENCE & CARWASH CANADA

LED lighting help to create this ultimate carwash experience.

“Dreams is using Zep Vehicle Cares newest and most comprehensive program, the Assure Platform,” says corporate account manager for Zep Vehicle Care, Brad Baldwin. “The all-inclusive Assure program provides the perfect harmonization of chemicals, dispensing and applications. Owners can receive real-time data on track car counts, chemical usage and alerts.”

“Our customer service is top notch thanks to our incredible manager, Tony Heembrock, who brings 35 years of industry experience to Dreams.”

McLaren adds: “The equipment package is a blend of friction and touchless components that shows some of the robust features Peco has to offer.

Its’ layout represents a methodical approach to cleaning via varying brush locations, intermingled with precise chemical applications and powerful high-pressure rinsing. Whether it be the stainless-steel arches, high impact signage, or the multi colored Soft Flex Foam, this tunnel looks just as good as it can clean.”

Gunnar Beauregard, general manager for Kesseltronics Systems was pleased to be a part of this project.

“The Dreams Eco Car Wash project truly illustrates the flexibility of the rTC controller,” says Beauregard. “The direct integration of the Hamilton HTK tellers and the unique door control configuration allows a US-style express tunnel model to operate with minimized energy/heat loss due to door operation. It takes an accomplished distributor like PD McLaren to bring together a complex project like Dreams by making the best use of the installed equipment.”

The wash itself is a hybrid, using touch plus high-pressure wash options to provide a great clean. Precisely calibrated water pressure combined with lubricating shampoos, polishes and neoprene foam materials provide a residue and scratch-free cleaning. In addition to a great wash Dreams provides their customers with a great experience as well. Colourful neoprene foam and

ECO PRACTICES

A leader in sustainable water management, the town of Okotoks has one of the lowest per capita gross water consumption rates in North America. The use of water recycling and reclamation technology that Haji and his partners chose to use was desirable to a town committed to water conservation.

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“Including the environmentally friendly cleaning solutions and water recycling was a choice that was important to us,” says Haji.

Water recycling helps reduce fresh water requirements, optimizing the use of water and ensuring the proper disposal of solid waste and wastewater. To achieve this Dreams is using the ConServ model CS-100PS II PUMP SYSTEM: 100GPM. “Upgraded to 120 gallons-per-minute, the system also has ozone for odour control and water clarity as well as the pit flush option to keep the trench free of debris,” says Stan Royal, President of Con-Serv. Mfg. “This set up included an above ground tank system designed to supply water for the high-pressure functions of the wash process.”

THE XPRESS EXPERIENCE

Customers have the option of paying before each wash or purchasing a monthly membership. Members are given a non-transferable RFID sticker which is scanned at the carwash entrance. Upon leaving the tunnel, customers are welcome to self-clean their interiors with powerful vacuum systems, car mat cleaners and air pump sprays – all a part of their carwash purchase.

“Offering a great value was crucial to us,” says Haji. “Customers should have a clean, shiny, dry car quickly and economically. We included the use of vacuums and mat cleaners because we didn’t want people to feel gouged by additional costs. Wash options are affordable and vary from $8 to $20.”

So far, customers love the experience.

“Our customer service is top notch thanks to our incredible manager, Tony Heembrock, who brings 35 years of industry experience to Dreams,” says Haji.

Moreover, customer reviews seem to back up his statement.

Market analysts speculate the conveyor carwash concept may become the leading carwash format over the next decade as customers demand even more convenience, automation and express services. Whatever the case, Dreams is poised to accommodate their customer’s car washing needs now and in the future.

Tania Moffat is a freelance writer, editor, publisher and photographer. She has worked in the publishing industry for the last 15 years on a wide variety of B2B and consumer publications, both in print and online. You can connect with her through her blog www.chiccountrylife.com

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

Soaking Up the Benefits of Pet Washes People love their pets and want to take good care of them.

Challenges, such as limited space availability and the general inconvenience of washing pets at home, are encouraging pet owners to seek out other options.

Thirty-five per cent of all Canadian households own dogs, and many are

turning to economic pet wash stations that offer clean machines, are easy to use, require no bending and are easy for the pets to get into, when it comes to getting their pets clean, says Evelyn Rutherford, director, Furever Clean Dog Wash Inc. “Dog owners are tired of dealing with the mess of washing dogs at home,” says Rutherford. “Besides dog hair, water, shampoo, and scratches in the bathtub, there is also a wet dog running around

the house and a very wet owner. If you live in a condo or on a boat, it becomes extremely challenging to wash a dog at home because of lack of space.”

Dog owners are quite willing to pay to wash their dog elsewhere so the mess can be someone else’s problem, says Rutherford.

A dog wash station is an excellent add-on for an already established convenience or carwash business, says Rutherford. Wash stations should be capable of easily handling dogs of all sizes and ages and secure so the dogs cannot hurt themselves. Pet owners are interested in a fast and positive experience for both the owner and pet, using

natural products that will not harm the pets, as well as providing heated water and dryers, notes Rutherford.

“Think of a dog wash as a boost in advertising,” remarks Rutherford. “It acts as a magnet and draws in a completely new market which, while they are at that business, will be exposed to, and purchase, other products, and services.

For existing customers, it provides another service they can use. As grooming can be pricey, dog owners like the less expensive alternative of washing their dogs themselves. The return on investment for the retailer is not only in the cost of the dog washes but the affect the dog wash has on overall revenue.”

CONVENIENCE & CARWASH CANADA

A dog wash station is an excellent add-on for an already established convenience or carwash business, says Rutherford.

For those who are considering expanding their business to include pet wash stations, Rutherford has some advice.

“When considering a dog wash station, don’t compromise on price as you will end up paying more on staff time to monitor wash time, fill up shampoo bottles, keep the dog wash clean, empty blocked drains and replace dog wash parts,” says Rutherford. “Buy a dog wash that is robust, reliable, has many reputable installations, is supported in your country, and is self-sufficient.”

It is also important to be sure that zoning allows for the addition and operation of a pet wash, adds Rutherford.

45

“Also, make sure the dog wash station wash station opens up an additional revis CSA approved,” states Rutherford. “For enue stream from an existing customer our dog washes, 240v is required as well base, says Findlay. as water and a drain. A separate onboard “Keep in mind, if you are adding pet hot water unit is available as an option if wash bays or converting a self-serve bay, the business is not close enough to a hot the customer is going to need to have water source. In colder climates, a busi- a place to park and walk across the car ness needs to have the dog wash in an wash lot,” comments Findlay. “Easy, safe area that has an ambient temperature of access to the pet wash can make a big at least five degrees Celsius. A business impression on the bottom line.” can consider getting a container to put A dog wash has its’ complexities, just the dog washes into if they don’t have like any other piece of equipment, notes space inside.”

Findlay, adding that running the dog A Furever Clean Dog Wash machine wash is similar in many ways to operatcan operate 24/7 with no oversight, says ing a self-serve carwash.

Rutherford.

“The basic key to success is a dedicat“Our dog wash has a three-part filtra- ed well-lit space with great ventilation, tion system, so the filter only needs to be and I really can’t stress the ventilation emptied after about 20 dogs,” she says. portion enough,” he says. “The linger“Customers can ing smell of wet make payments dog isn’t the best at the machine.” way to attract new “Keep in mind, if you There is minimal customers. You are adding pet wash maintenance inalso need to empty bays or converting volved with these the trash, monitor a self-serve bay, the pet washes that chemical levels, customer is going to need to have a includes replacand keep the wash place to park and ing wash guns and area clean and inwalk across the car maybe the dryer viting. It doesn’t wash lot,” comments hose once a year, require a dedicatFindlay.

“Easy, safe and wiping down ed staff member access to the pet the machine every all the time but wash can make a big few days. There you should expect impression on the is a free disinfect to be cleaning the bottom line.” cycle at the end of site at least once the dog wash.” a day.”

An increase in the number of pet ownPeople don’t want to bring their pets ers living in city centres has influenced to a facility that is dark, dirty or loud, the shift of consumers using commercial says Findlay. pet wash facilities, says Dan Findlay, na- “The one thing I always ask new dog tional sales manager, P.D. McLaren Ltd. wash operators to remember is that pets “Typically, their homes don’t have the are like family,” states Findlay. space required to get the job done propCustomers are looking for a safe, erly,” says Findlay. “The majority of the clean, and efficient way to wash their customers we deal with want a simple pets and, in general, the carwash indusand reliable piece of equipment that is try is a shoe-in for the addition of pet super easy to clean. Recently, we’ve seen washes, says Heather Steines, executive a push to incorporate credit acceptance/ vice president, CCSI International Inc., EMV into the coin boxes, but I think that which manufactures All Paws Pet Wash is just a new normal in the entire carwash stations. industry.”

“Gas stations, convenience stores, Expanding business to include a pet quick lube, and pet washes all marry

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

“The pet wash industry today is thriving and has found a special niche within the carwash industry as a whole,” says Steines. “Pet washes have been found to be unique and practical add-ons for carwash owners.

One of the more original designs for pet washes are selfservice kiosk buildings. This type of pet wash is about the size of an average parking space.

well with traditional carwashes,” she says. “This is mainly because these additional profit centres, more often than not, require a car. The majority of customers do not venture to the gas station or quick lube without their vehicle. In our experience, even in walkable neighbourhoods, pet wash customers tend to bring their four-legged friends to the pet wash in a vehicle. It is simply a good idea to couple businesses that have similar requirements together.”

Pet washes have evolved over the past half-decade, says Steines.

“More and more, pet washes are less of an addition to and more of an integration,” she states. “With time comes experience and with experience comes optimization. Pet wash manufacturers have learned a thing or two over the past few years. Now, many are offering units that comply with the Americans

Pet Washes Overview

Heather Steines, executive vice president, CCSI International Inc. provides the following overview of the types of pet washes available on the market today: One of the more original designs for pet washes are self-service kiosk buildings. This type of pet wash is about the size of an average parking space.

Essentially, this pet wash design is a small building that is self-supported. Though modular in nature, this type of pet wash is perhaps the most permanent pet wash design available on the market today. Pet washes such as these are often placed adjacent to carwashes. Utilities are then typically run to the pet wash from a carwash owner’s existing infrastructure. Most models on the market today are outfitted with equipment that is both safe for the pet and convenient for the carwash patron. This equipment may include specifically designed tubs and sprayers, as well as pet specific soap integrated much like self-service carwash equipment. This type of unit is unique in the fact that many manufacturers are marketing them as year-round amenities. Advancements in heating and cooling systems within this type of model now allow carwash owners to offer comfortable self-service grooming no matter what Mother Nature throws their way.

A second self-service pet wash design that is

gaining popularity is a walk-up unit. This type of unit is integrated into the infrastructure of a carwash. Often, carwash owners will build an awning, much like that of a bank of vacuums, to protect the unit. Other times, carwash owners will integrate the unit directly into a carwash bay. Walk-up pet washes offer many of the same features as a kiosk building with much less infrastructure needed.

Industry-wide, these types of units tend to be an economical choice. On average, the costs associated with a walk-up unit are 60 per cent less than a typical kiosk unit.

The trendiest, most compact pet washes lean on one of the newest industry advancements. Leaning on that whole notion that less is more, compact varieties seem to be hitting the market every day.

Some of these compact versions fold into place.

This type of design ticks the adaptability mark and seems to have been created with self-serve carwash owners in mind. These types of models can be placed virtually anywhere, but the unique design is ideal for use in self-service carwash bays.

The trim nature and fold down tub require minimal floor space. Self-service carwash bays can now easily double as pet wash bays too.

Pet wash manufacturers are keeping owners and operators in mind as they continually redefine today’s pet washes.

CONVENIENCE & CARWASH CANADA

with Disability Act (ADA) design standards. This design standard is making the process of installing them in local communities much easier. Now, more user-friendly options, such as credit card readers are commonplace. This type of optimization has opened new markets, such as alongside carwashes.

Optimization has encouraged refinement, too. As such, pet wash models are now available in all shapes and sizes.

The most common though, tend to err on the side of compact and modular.”

Pet washes are a unique and fun way to take care of a pet, says Steines.

“Although they are members of the family, a pet’s hair, dander, etc. is often a nuisance and difficult to take care of at home,” she says. “Pet hair tends to clog drains and often leads to bigger messes within the home. Self-serve pet washes stand in the gap for many families between washes in the bathtub and often more expensive groomers.”

If contemplating setting up a pet wash station, Steines’ advice is to go for it!

“The pet wash industry today is thriving and has found a special niche within the carwash industry as a whole,” says Steines. “Pet washes have been found to be unique and practical add-ons for carwash owners. Because of our general love for pets, the washes generate a different type of public buzz than, for example, a new bank of vacuums. It isn’t to say that vacuums aren’t as practical and useful as pet washes, but they simply do not garner the same attention.”

Pet wash owners rave about the publicity they receive in the form of social media tags of happy customers and their tail wagging friends, notes Steines.

“This type of attention is music to carwash owners’ ears,” comments Steines.

“Pet washes grab people’s attention, but the benefits to a carwash owner do not stop there. This type of add-on attracts new pet owning clientele to your location. Suddenly, your carwash location becomes a one stop shop for a car wash, pet wash, gasoline and a gallon of milk.

Placing a pet wash at a carwash location

can instantly fill a void long left between expensive pet salons and washing in the bathtub.”

It is fun to see happy customers, two legged and four legged alike, notes Steines.

“Something that can so easily garner attention, benefit current patrons, and attract new ones can do nothing but help your bottom line,” she states. “Pet

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washes are a simple way to facilitate and perpetuate family entertainment in an industry that is not typically known as such. Adding a pet wash is a convenient add-on that is quite simple and rather ingenious for a carwash owner.

Times may be changing, but this is one instance where it is certainly for the better.”

We Make Washing Dogs Simple

Canadian K9000 Distributor

Whether you are a Car Wash, Convenience Store, Gas Station, Auto Detailing Shop, Laundromat or a Pet Friendly Condo, your customers will love your K9000 Self-Serve Dog Wash and you will love the benefits it provides your business.

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250.217.9433 info@fureverclean.ca fureverclean.ca

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The Best of Brushes, the Worst of Brushes

By Del Williams

From carwash brush quality, usage, and configuration, relatively fine distinctions can make a big difference in performance and the bottom line With apologies to Charles Dickens who opened his novel A Tale of Two Cities with

The difference between good and bad often comes down to factors such as brush qualities, utilization, maintenance/ cleaning and configuration.

“it was the best of times, it was the worst of times,” in the carwash industry there is often an unclear line between the best of brushes and the worst of brushes.

In other words, a number of small but important distinctions can distinguish a good brush from a bad one, including how well it cleans, if it damages vehicles or otherwise creates a bad customer experience.

While standard brushes can be ordered out of a catalogue and cheaply made, brushes can also be well designed, built and even customized for just a little more. As such, the difference between good and bad often comes down to factors such as brush qualities, utilization, maintenance/cleaning and configuration.

With these factors in mind, buying on initial price alone and saving a few pennies may wind up being a foolish choice. Instead, making better choices in carwash brushes by considering a variety of factors can make a significant difference in performance, repeat business and the bottom line.

To accomplish this, carwash owners and operators need to be aware of certain important brush characteristics. Dan Pecora, an expert on carwash supplies and CEO of Erie Manufacturing in Chicago, Ill., a supplier to the carwash industry since 1948, outlines what to look for in a good versus bad brush.

Best Brush Qualities

For carwash owners that want to provide customers with an exceptional wash that keeps them coming back, there is no substitute for a high-quality brush. Poorly designed or constructed brushes that save carwash operators a few dollars up front may be more costly in the long run. This cost may not be in dollars and cents alone, but may affect the reputation of the operation as well as have a negative impact on repeat business.

While a bad brush can do a poor cleaning job from the first wash, a well-designed brush will consistently wash vehicles well over time. Each brush must also provide enough friction to dislodge dirt from the vehicle’s surface, without damaging the paint or trim. No matter the type of brush or cloth, it should stand up to the rigors of car washing for a long time to minimize replacement costs.

Poorly constructed brushes may also prematurely tear, rip or fail, whereas a good brush can last many years before needing to be replaced. This also saves money in the long run.

“A poor quality brush can do an awful job right off the bat,” explains Pecora. “It can have the wrong filaments, can be too hard or soft, or the backing can be wrong, allowing the material to pull out.”

To continue reading the remainder of this article please visit: www.convenienceandcarwash.com

Forecourt Insight

CONVENIENCE & CARWASH CANADA

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Dealing With Fugitive Fuel Drops:

DRAIN THEM, D O N ’ T R E TA I N T H E M

By Ed Kammerer

It was in 1915 that the Cheek-Neal Coffee Company of Nashville, TN, introduced the iconic “Good To The Last Drop” marketing slogan for its Maxwell House brand of coffee. It has been at least that long that fuel retailers have

searched for ways to capture and control those precious – and problematic – last drops that remain in the spout of the fuel nozzle when the vehicle-fueling process is completed.

Though those drops are small, they can present problems for drivers, retailers and the environment if they are allowed to escape to the atmosphere or remain inside the fuel spout at the end of the fueling operation.

The Driver

• Those fugitive drops have been paid for. Any fuel that dribbles out of the nozzle and not into the fuel tank

cannot be used to power the vehicle.

• Gasoline or diesel fuel, which are hazardous liquids, could potentially get on the driver’s hands, clothes or shoes and would need to be washed off immediately Fuel that runs down the side of the vehicle can affect the vehicle’s finish The Retailer

• Spilled fuel, no matter what amount, may create a potential fire-hazard risk for the fueling site • Spilled fuel will stain the concrete around the fuel island, creating an unattractive and unwelcoming fuel site and less-than-desirable brand image • Fugitive fuel will also gather on the nozzle trigger, hand insulator and fuel guard, making it dirty and unappealing for customers to handle

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The washing world’s new experience

Las Vegas (NV) October 8-10, 2018 Booth #7073

ISTOBAL USA CORPORATION • 1100 Page Street • Bristol, VA USA 24201 T: +1 8003368795 • info.usa@istobal.com • www.istobal.com

CONVENIENCE & CARWASH CANADA

• Excessive amounts of spilled fuel, or the accumulation of spilled fuel over time, will eventually necessitate a cleanup program and, along with it, associated costs and pump-island downtime • Regulations from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) set limits on the amount of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) that can be released from fueling sites, with outof-compliance sites subject to fines or shutdown The Environment

Any VOCs that are emitted go right into the atmosphere, potentially compromising breathable air Allowing the emission of fugitive VOCs runs counter to the growing mission of making the fueling process greener, cleaner and more environmentally friendly

Admittedly, over the years nozzle manufacturers have made many significant advancements in the design and operation of their products, with the goal, in part, of ensuring the elimination of fuel loss or retention at the conclusion of the fueling process.

In recent years, manufacturers have played with the idea of making fueling nozzles dripless, and all but one has settled on a specific nozzle-spout design to accomplish this task. This design uses gutters, ripples and dams inside the spout to create liquid-catching surfaces that ostensibly prevent the fuel from dribbling out of the nozzle. While this design is effective in keeping those fugitive drops of fuel from reaching the ground, vehicle and the driver’s hands or clothes, the fuel that is retained in the nozzle poses an environmental hazard. The inherent problem with this design is that when the nozzle spout is returned to the dispenser cradle, it is filled with fuel (in most cases, more

GIVE YOUR STATION A SPOTLESS REPUTATION

NEW

• Innovative free-draining spout technology (patented and patent-pending) • Designed to provide a cleaner, greener fueling experience for customers and the environment • Significantly reduces retained fuel in the spout after fueling Learn more at opwclean14.com

fuel than what would have traditionally dripped on the ground). This captured fuel is now exposed to the atmosphere as the nozzle sits in the cradle, which creates VOC-heavy emissions as the fuel evaporates and escapes into the environment.

Feeling that there still had to be a better way to more competently deal with those final pesky drops, OPW Retail Fueling, Smithfield, NC, began looking to create a new type of nozzle that would not require any liquid-catching surfaces. The result is the revolutionary 14 Series Fueling Nozzles.

The features of these new nozzles are many:

• True Dripless Technology that offers a free-draining spout with no dams, gutters or hidden reservoirs to capture fuel for later release into the atmosphere • A specially designed interlock system, available on some models, that prevents fuel from flowing unless the spout is fully inserted into the vehicle’s fill pipe (this is a California Air Resources Board requirement) • A FlowLock shutoff system that halts fuel flow when the nozzle is tipped up or falls out of the vehicleAccu-Stop double-poppet, to-thepenny flow-control technology • Comfortable two-piece NEWGARD hand insulator • UL and cULus listed • CARB approval pending (for models that feature a special interlock system) Conclusion

Cleaner Nozzle Technology

OPW 14 Series Nozzles

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• 14BP Dripless Gasoline Nozzle without Interlock • 14C Diesel Capture Technology Nozzle • 14E Dripless Gasoline Nozzle with Interlock CARB Eco

US PATENTS 7,134,580 AND 9,126,820. OTHER PATENTS-PENDING

DEFINING

For many decades, the loss or retention of fuel at the completion of the vehiclefueling process has been chalked up to being one of those inescapable costs of doing business. Today, this no longer has to be tolerated as fuel prices remain high and the calls for greener, cleaner, safer and more environmentally friendly fueling processes increase. To the rescue comes an innovative fuelnozzle design that helps ensure that the days of drops of fuel falling to the ground or being retained in the nozzle are over – with many ancillary benefits created for the driver, the retailer and the environment.

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By Ed Kammerer

CONVENIENCE & CARWASH CANADA

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THE MECHANICS OF IMPROVED FUEL CAPTURE

Ed Kammerer is the director of Global Product Management for OPW, based in Cincinnati, OH, USA. He can be reached at ed.kammerer@opwglobal. com. For more information on OPW, please go to OPWGlobal.com.

To eliminate the waste, cost and environmental concerns of uncaptured fuel, OPW Retailing Fueling, Smithfield, NC – the company that, in 1949, invented the automatic shut-off dispensing nozzle valve – has developed the new 14 Series family of fueling nozzles. These innovative nozzles feature patented and patent-pending free-draining spout technology that is designed to produce a cleaner, greener fueling experience.

The new 14 Series nozzles are available for gasoline and specific diesel models: • 14BP Automatic Dripless Nozzle: A no-pressure/no-flow self-service nozzle that has a free-draining spout with no dams or hidden reservoirs, which prevents the fuel from dripping onto the driver’s vehicle, hands and clothing. For use with gasoline and up to 10% ethanol blends.

• 14E CARB ECO True Dripless Nozzle: A no-pressure/no-flow selfservice nozzle that uses a special interlock system inside the bellows to activate fuel flow, which allows it to meet California Air Resources Board (CARB) fuel-capture standards for dripless nozzles. Features a free-draining spout and no dams or hidden reservoirs for use with gasoline and up to 10% ethanol blends.

• 14C Diesel Capture Technology: Has a specially designed Integral Diesel Capture Chamber and Environmental Drip Guard. The nozzle captures any diesel fuel inside and outside the spout when the nozzle is returned to the cradle, creating a cleaner and safer fueling experience. This diesel-capture chamber also allows the nozzle’s venturi to evacuate the captured fuel and reintroduce it into the fuel stream. Approved for diesel blends up to B20.

Please visit opwclean14.com to learn more about OPW Retail Fueling’s complete portfolio of !4 Series Fueling Nozzles.

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By Dwight Rutledge

CONVENIENCE & CARWASH CANADA

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D I S P E N S E R F I LT E R S :

Going Above and Beyond Filtration. If You Are Only Expecting Contamination Filtration, You Are Underestimating Your Filter.

“Some Canadian provinces are increasing the amount of ethanol content required in their fuel blends to an average of 10 per cent starting in calendar year 2020.”

Most fuel retailers know that providing customers a positive experience at the fuel island is an essential part of a successful retail fuel operation. But many are unaware that the

dispensing equipment on the fuel island also represents a critical link to improved long-term operations management. For instance, dispenser filtration is not only a fuel site’s last line of defense against dispensing contaminated fuel, the filter itself often presents signs of compromised fuel quality and deteriorating conditions within the fueling system.

Most convenience store operators regard dispenser filter maintenance as a cost-of-doing-business expense. However, routine filter maintenance offers Canadian c-store operators a surprising benefit: the opportunity to learn about potential problems inside the underground storage tank (UST). Retailers who observe unfavorable conditions inside the UST are able to initiate procedures that rectify the situation and enable them to maintain positive fueling experiences. With some Canadian provinces increasing the amount of ethanol content required in their fuel blends to an average of 10 per cent starting in calendar year 2020, Canadian UST operators need to be more attentive than ever to the conditions inside their UST.

Understanding the Contamination Challenge

Untainted ethanol, ULSD and biodiesel fuels are themselves not the cause of corrosion inside fuel tanks. However, petroleum-based fuels are extremely vulnerable to contamination, which can lead to corrosion inside the tank.

For example, biodiesel contains fatty acid methyl esters. These molecules grow organic microbes that can eat away at tank and fueling infrastructure. Similarly, ULSD is vulnerable to bacteria and fungi growth when water is introduced to the fuel. And water compromises the quality of ethanol blends because ethanol attracts and absorbs water to create corrosive acetic acid. Water is also a leading contributor to an ethanol blend completing phase separation.

Unfortunately, water intrusion can occur during many aspects of fuel distribution: during refining, during delivery, when it rains, as groundwater run-off or as in-tank condensation.

Therefore, fuel’s vulnerability to water contamination presents a persistent quality-control and equipment-maintenance challenge to c-store operators.

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By Dwight Rutledge

CONVENIENCE & CARWASH CANADA

THREE KINDS OF FUEL CONTAMINATION

Knowing more about the different kinds of fuel contamination can help Canada’s c-store operators address fuel quality problems before they get worse.

Here, we explain three of the most common types of fuel contamination: Kind of contamination: Water

Fuels susceptible to water: Neat gasoline, diesel, biodiesel, ULSD (Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel), kerosene, and fuel oils.

How it happens: Water gets into the fuel system through condensation caused by humid air and drastic changes in temperature, when it rains and through surface water runoff, during delivery from the refinery to the service station, leaking from bad fill pipes or vents, damaged spill buckets or fill cap gaskets, loose fittings or plugs.

Kind of contamination: Particulate

Fuels susceptible to particulate: Neat gasoline, ethanol-blended gasolines, diesels, biodiesel, ULSD (Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel), kerosene and fuel oils.

How it happens: Dust in the environment can infiltrate the system during the transfer from terminal tank to delivery truck, delivery truck to storage tank and during the ventilation process. Particles can become suspended in fuel due to rusting and corrosion of the storage tank, as well as the production of microbial growth, glycerin fall-out and additive instability.

Kind of contamination: Phase Separation

Fuels susceptible to phase separation: Ethanol-blended fuel such as E10, E15 and E85 How it happens: Water intrudes tank, ethanol blend separates into two layers of liquid – one with a gasoline layer at the top, and the other with a high concentration of ethanol-water at the bottom.

Visit www.petroclear/academy for more information.

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Examine the Evidence

If flow through the filter becomes restricted prior to planned maintenance intervals, the filter is likely clogged due to excessive particulate or contamination.

A used dispenser filter provides many clues to the conditions inside the tank and the quality of the fuel being pumped It Pays to Pay Attention to Your Filter through the dispenser. Examine the filter Dispenser filters perform three basic and watch for these indications of infunctions: They capture particulate, tank contamination: sense water and detect phase separation. • Corrosion of interior metal filter (Note: not all filters perform all functions. parts Proper filter selection is critical to • Particulate in the filter ¬– solid or maximizing your level of protection semi-solid contaminants that reand warning.) Through the process of semble a reddish-orange metal and/ filtration, the filter also collects evidence or scaly, granular deposits of problems in the UST or signs of • Microbial slime in the filter diminished fuel quality.

• Foul odor that smells like rotten eggs For example, as fuel flows into a Phase • Extreme discoloration/leopard Separation Detection, Water Sensing & spotting Particulate Removing dispenser filter, the filter not only collects debris, senses Protecting Equipment and water and phase separation, its subse- Customer Loyalty quent behavior demonstrates problems Dispenser filters provide the last chance to prevent costly equipment repairs in three key ways: 1. As the filter collects particulate, flow that result from the distribution of becomes restrained. If this happens contaminated fuel. Fuel that contains earlier than planned maintenance particulate or that has completed intervals, then it is likely an indication phase separation will not only damage of a problem with the fuel, storage and automotive engines, it can damage dispenser components as well. Modern dispensing equipment, or both.

2. If fuel that has completed phase high-efficiency diesel engines are separation passes through the filter, particularly susceptible to microscopic a specially treated polymer inside contaminants due to their small, the filter expands and congeals, precision-crafted components.

Relative to their cost, fuel dispenser increasing the total differential pressure, which significantly slows filters provide a strong value: • They are an essential part of a fuel the flow of the fuel. retailer’s quality assurance program 3. If the filter senses water, the filter • They help c-store operators judge reduces the flow. the fitness of the fueling system and identify serious problems within the UST • They reduce the risk of costly repairs and emergency interventions Fuel retailers who acknowledge warning signs from their dispenser filters and address the root cause of the probDwight Rutledge is business development lem within the fueling system will help manager at PetroClear, a Champion safeguard their c-store’s reputation from Laboratories brand dedicated to preventable customer complaints. In the manufacturing fuel dispenser filters. He long term, station operations also will has over 35 years of experience in the benefit from the improved oversight and petroleum-equipment industry. For more remediation of UST infrastructure that information on PetroClear, go to www. attentive dispenser filter inspections petroclear.com. provide.

continued from page 11

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providing the best possible equipment along with world-class customer service,” she says.

Moving forward, she sees the company continuing to grow and provide complete chemical solutions. “Not only chemical injectors but systems and accessories that enhance installations. The future is unpredictable with the possibility of autonomous cars with sensors detecting their environment. We have to be ready to serve carwash owners with up-to-date equipment to meet their needs,” Pam explains.

Suzanne Huisman EUROPEAN BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR PROGRAMMABLE SYSTEMS DESIGN LTD.

According to Suzanne, it is only natural

that she has “soap in her blood” since she comes from a carwash family. For her parents opening a carwash was fueled by a dream. Her father’s life-long wish was to build a carwash site with every feature he could imagine. Six years ago, her parents set out to realise that dream. Today, their carwash has a 50m tunnel, 20 vacuums, four self-serve bays and a roll-over for higher vehicles. “And, it’s not finished yet,” Suzanne adds.

“A year after my parents opened the carwash I decided to quit my job and join the family business,” she recalls. “My daily operations varied and included marketing, customer service, basic engineering and, of course, washing a lot of cars.” It didn’t take long for Suzanne to realise that this was the industry for her.

Working seven days per week, attending trade shows and networking with others in the industry soon provided her with a passion for improving the conditions for other carwash owners in Belgium. “I started the Belgian Car Wash Association with other operators as a point of contact

for government discussion and to help put an end to problems like illegal hand carwashes.” To date, the association has seen some early results and is now networking internationally.

Suzanne is also the European Business Development Director for PSD Codax, a position she took on last year. This role provided her with the opportunity to view the industry from a supplier’s perspective.

“I have had a chance to visit several sites and learn even more about washing cars, how to run a car wash and the day-to-day struggles operators face. It is a pleasure to be able to assist operators and find solutions that make their businesses run as efficiently as possible.

Much of Suzanne’s life revolves around the carwash industry. Her day (and sometimes night) job is with PSD Codax, mapping the industry for automatic payment and management systems, her free time is spent working with the Belgium Car Wash Association, and she is still active at the family business. It is clear that she is passionate about the carwash industry.

403.243.1312 Acqua Panna Trademarks are owned by Sanpellegrino S.P.A., San Pellegrino Terme (BG), Italy and used under licence. © 2018 Sanpellegrino

CONVENIENCE & CARWASH CANADA 

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What’s New

NACS Show Breaks Attendance, Expo Records Recently Concluded Event Tops 25,000 in Attendance, Including a Surge of Buyers at the Expo ALEXANDRIA, Va. – Attendance for the NACS Show—the only global event for all things convenience— topped 25,000 for the first time ever, led by a seven per cent increase in buyers at the four-day event held October 7-10 in Las Vegas.

Overall attendance was 25,159 industry stakeholders from 72 countries, besting the attendance record set last year. A large part of this attendance growth was attributed to a strong increase in the number of buyers— retailers and convenience distributors and registrations from show partner the Petroleum Equipment Institute—which reached 9,095, a seven per cent increase over the tally in 2017. Overall buyer attendance is up 10.5 per cent over the past two years.

The NACS Show expo also set a record, reaching 431,800 net square feet, up from the previous record-setting expo in 2017 at 425,800 net square feet.

More than 1,250 exhibitors participated, including 182 first-time exhibitors in the New Exhibitor area.

Sharing ideas and solutions was certainly a focus on the expo and also in four days of general sessions and 64 education sessions. Education sessions covered relevant industry topics such as foodservice and food safety, leadership development, category management, marketing, technology and fuels. Reflecting the growing international opportunities offered at the NACS Show, select education sessions were translated into Portuguese and Spanish, and the four general sessions were translated into Portuguese, Spanish and Mandarin Chinese. Also, for the first time ever, the videos showcased in the standing room only presentation of Ideas 2 Go are available for free at www. convenience.org/ideas2go2018.

“No matter where you are from or how many stores you operate, if you take one good idea and bring it back to your business from the NACS Show, your business will improve and you will be successful,” said NACS 2018-19 Chairman Frank Gleeson, president of Aramark Northern Europe (Dublin, Ireland).

Extending the value of the expo, the popular Cool New Products Preview Room showcased 309 new products and services from 194 companies.

Visitors to the Preview Room used handheld scanners to capture product and booth information of the exhibitors they were interested in, producing a record 37,874 product scans.

TechEdge at the NACS Show, in its fifth year, attracted 627 industry technology professionals participating in the program’s specialized education sessions on topics ranging from data security to how to improve overall operational efficiency. Tech Edge provides industry retailer technology professionals a more personalized and high-value experience of learning, connecting and access to new solutions at the NACS Show. This forward-looking program partners with the industry’s standards and technology organization, Conexxus (conexxus.org), to bring more value, deeper education and broader solutions to attendees.

On the final day of the NACS Show, Tyson Foods Inc. and NACS partnered to donate a truckload of protein totaling 35,000 pounds to Three Square Food Bank to help fight hunger in Southern Nevada. Three Square will distribute the donated food, which is equivalent to 140,000 servings, through its service network of more than 1,600 community partners to reach struggling individuals and families at risk of hunger. Three Square also collected a record 142,829 pounds of food from NACS Show exhibitors—equivalent to 119,024 meals that will support the food insecure within the Las Vegas community.

Core-Mark Debuts New Order-Replenishment Solution SAN FRANCISCO — Core-Mark Holding Co. Inc. unveiled a new order-replenishment solution.

The Advanced Ordering Solution is designed to deliver the best-quality order by improving in-stock rate, optimizing inventory levels, improving turns and maintaining planogram integrity.

The solution will save time, increase profitability, reduce labor costs and limit order errors, according to Core-Mark.

A proprietary interface combines retailers’ sales data with an algorithm, coupled with visibility and edit capabilities, allowing retailers to customize to their specific needs.

“We are very excited to share this Advanced Ordering Solution with our retail partners,” said Sandra D’Asaro, vice president of sales technology for Core-Mark International. “It is a significant step forward in our ongoing efforts to provide the industry more customercentric solutions.”

Top 10 Cool New Products at the NACS Show Here are Retailers’ Favorite Products from the 2018 NACS Show October 10, 2018 LAS VEGAS – During the recent NACS Show, the Cool New Products Preview Room was bustling with attendees on the hunt for the best new c-store products. By the show’s close, a record number of scans had been recorded.

Of the more than 300 products featured in the Preview Room, the top 10 (based on scans) at the end of the show were: 1. Hussmann Corp. – Pastry Case with Warmer 2. Kellogg Co. – Joy Bol and Rice Krispies Treats Poppers 3. Kellogg Co. – Cheez-It Snap’d and Pringles Wavy 4. GLK Foods – OH SNAP! Hoppin’ Jalapeños 5. Reichel Foods Inc. – Pro2Snax to the Max 6. Plastic and Products Marketing – Push N Go Creamer Dispenser 7. Califia Farms – Probiotic Dairy Free Yogurts 8. Nestle Waters North America – Acqua Panna, San Pellegrino Essenza, Perrier & Juice, Kids Buddies 9. CAF Inc. – Spray & Go 10. Dot Design Group Pty. Ltd. – Bang Energy Digital Rack The Cool New Products Preview Room gives attendees a sneak peek at the latest products, flavors, packaging and innovations available to the convenience and fuel retailing industry. Visitors to the Preview Room scan the products they like best and then receive a printout of where to find them on the expo floor.

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NuVinAir Cyclone: Too often, OPW, a Dover company (NYSE: DOV) and a global leader in fluid-handling the car’s interior is skipped solutions, fielded many questions from retailers around the pending U.S. over with a quick vacuum or Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Underground Storage Tank (UST) wipe down, and so the air/ Regulations at the PEI Convention at the NACS Show in Las Vegas, Nevada. ventilation system cannot The new UST regulations went into full effect on October 13. be brought back to factoryfresh. NuVinAir can do that in There are four major regulatory requirements that all U.S. stations must be prepared seven minutes flat. NuVinAir for pertaining to new and existing UST systems.

Cyclone attacks odor and 1. Testing of sumps and under-dispenser containment systems must be performed airborne pollutants by safely every three years if the system uses interstitial monitoring of the piping as its expelling a dry, hygienic vapor primary form of leak deterrence. throughout the vehicle’s HVAC 2. Spill-bucket testing will be required every three years, unless the UST system system and cabin. It fits into is outfitted with double-wall spill buckets where the interstitial space is tested a cup holder and contains regularly. Some states already require spill-bucket testing every year. a natural, highly effective compound that has been used 3. Compliance testing of repaired components: Whenever any component in the spill-protection, overfill-containment and secondary-containment areas of the to safely treat compromised UST system needs to be repaired, compliance testing of the repaired system public buildings and drinking must be completed within 30 days, regardless of whether or not an actual prodwater. The Cyclone is not a uct release occurred. masking agent or ionizer, and 4. Overfill-prevention equipment inspections will be required every three years, leaves behind zero residue. It except in states where they are already required annually. eliminates odors and restores the vehicle to hygienic “It’s important for each site owner to get their site compliant as soon as possible,” efficiency. says Ed Kammerer, director of Global Product Management, OPW.. “Not just for the safety of their customers and our environment, but for their business as non-compliance penalties are fierce.”

Unified brands introduces new power soak intro series

NuVinAir ReVibeAir: ReVibeAir spritzers that should be on the counter of every car wash; not new-car smelling chemicals, but rather highgrade essential oils to actually enhance your space. ReVibeAir® is our proprietary blend of high-grade essential oil spritzers used by VIN locations and car/boat owners to freshen their space and enhance their vibe. A top-selling consumer product, these sprays are retail-ready and can be used as a value-add across multiple VIN stores and detail locations. One spritz will powerfully enhance any space, change the vibe, and become the NEW scent addiction.

Science created the scent, innovation bottled the emotion.

CONYERS, GA (November 8, 2018) – Unified Brands, a leading manufacturer of foodservice equipment, announces the launch of a new product series to its Power Soak line-up.

The new “Power Soak Intro” is a continuous motion pot, pan and sheet pan washing system, delivering consistently clean results with improved sanitation and workforce efficiency. The unit offers an enhanced solution to warewashing that replaces the standard three-compartment sink. It is available in four standard-length models.

“Power Soak is well known for their custom warewashing solutions, chosen by many of the industry’s top chains, institutions, and retail operations for operational efficiency, reduced labor costs, and improved product quality,” said Clay Thames, Product Line Director – Cooking & Warewash. “The development of the Intro series rounds out our product offering by providing a lower-cost solution for those operators seeking to replace the labor-intensive method of hand washing, but needing an economical alternative to the three-compartment sink.”

Upgrading from the Intro model, Power Soak also offers Advanced and Unlimited product platforms – providing additional options, features and benefits, as well as fully customizable solutions and layouts.

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Ad Index

Aerodry Systems, LLC.............................................................. 11

Oasis Car Wash Systems................................................... 32, 52

Bulloch Technologies Inc......................................................... 62

OPW Fueling Systems.............................................................. 51

Cardtronics........................................................................... OBC

P.D. McLaren Limited.................................................. 14, 19, 29

Con-Serv Water Recovery Systems......................................... 25

P.D. McLaren Limited / RDR.................................................... 42

CoreMark Int’l....................................................................... 5, 20

Petroleum Equipment Institute................................................. 27

Distribution Regitan.................................................................. 12

Reclaim Equipment Company................................................. 14

Erie Brush & Mfg Corp............................................................. 59

RockyView Industries................................................................. 8

Furever Clean Dog Wash Inc................................................... 47

Three Farmers Foods .............................................................. 34

Gourmet Chips....................................................................... IBC

United Distribution Network..................................................... 54

International Drying Corp......................................................... 41

Washtech Vehicle Wash Systems............................................ 58

Istobal USA.............................................................................. 50

Wayne Fueling Systems........................................................... 23

JUUL Labs................................................................................ 16

Western Refrigeration............................................................... 15

MI Petro.................................................................................. IFC

White Castle Food Products..................................................... 18

Modernwash............................................................................ 39

Women in Carwash™................................................................. 4

Nestle Waters Canada........................................... 19, 29, 43, 58

WPMA....................................................................................... 33

North Shore Tobacco............................................................... 30

XpresSystems Inc.................................................................... 56

When Dependability Matters Advanced Petroleum POS Software

Wayne & Gilbarco EMV Pay-at-Pump Loyalty, Couponing, Gift processing Fuel and Merchandise discounting Remote Desktop support NacsXML interface PA-DSS Certified

Conexxus, PEI, IFSF, ACT Canada, CIPMA members.

www.BullochTech.com

CONVENIENCE & CARWASH CANADA 

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