International News

Mexico’s FEMSA Eyes Drug Store Expansion
One of the country’s largest convenience store chains is considering opening pharmacies.
Posted May 17, 2013

Visa Europe Caps Swipe Fees
The company made the offer to put an upper limit on credit card transaction charges to halt a probe by the European Union.
Posted May 15, 2013

Tesco and Asda Urge Beverage Makers to Cut Sugar
The ask comes as a preemptive move to keep the government from regulating sugary beverages.
Posted May 14, 2013

Convenience Retailers Converge at Insight NACS Event
Registration is open for the Insight NACS Future of Convenience event, which takes place in London on September 25 to 26.
Posted May 8, 2013

Ontario C-Stores Applauds Action on Contraband Tobacco
More than 70% of Ontarians recognize that contraband tobacco negatively impacts government revenues and increases organized crime and youth access to cigarettes.
Posted May 6, 2013

British Spend More on Food, Drinks for Home
The U.K. consumer is putting more money into food and beverages for at-home consumption.
Posted May 1, 2013

Taiwan Convenience Stores Focus on Fresh Food
7-Eleven and FamilyMart are beefing up their dining-out options.
Posted May 1, 2013

Scotland Tobacco Display Ban Takes Effect in Large Shops
The country joins England, Wales and Northern Ireland in banning the display of cigarettes and other tobacco products in large stores.
Posted Apr 30, 2013

Denmark Nixes Soft Drink Tax
Around since the 1930s, the soda tax will be fully eliminated by January 1, 2014.
Posted Apr 29, 2013

Vietnam Implements Antismoking Measures
The country wants to significantly lower smoking and control the sale of tobacco at retail.
Posted Apr 26, 2013

Sainsbury’s Goes Green
The U.K. convenience store chain has opened the country’s most environmentally friendly location.
Posted Apr 26, 2013

Manitoba Hikes Tobacco Taxes
The move has convenience store operators concerned about lost revenue.
Posted Apr 26, 2013

Japan’s FamilyMart Targets Philippines for Expansion
This year, the convenience store chain will aggressively open new stores in the country.
Posted Apr 24, 2013

U.K. C-Stores Lose Lunch Opportunities
Value and quality are needed for convenience stores in the U.K. to build lunchtime foodservice sales.
Posted Apr 23, 2013

Ontario Convenience Stores Launch Contraband Awareness Campaign
The association is upping its outreach about illegal cigarettes by taking it to the public.
Posted Apr 19, 2013

Fill Up and a Hair Cut
At the Tank & Cut in Germany, customers can get gasoline and a new look.
Posted Apr 17, 2013

Convenience Stores Thrive in Thailand
Boasting more than 12,000 locations, the country has become saturated with convenience stores.
Posted Apr 10, 2013

Fuel Efficient Cars Cause Gas Sales to Plummet in the U.K.
According to the Automobile Association, the drop in fuel sales translates to about 35 days of lost sales for U.K. retailers.
Posted Apr 9, 2013

Aldi Opens Convenience Store
The grocer is hoping to make inroads into the smaller store market. Meanwhile, U.K. convenience stores are snatching more wine sales.
Posted Apr 8, 2013

KFC Taps Into Mobile Payments
Pending success of a U.K. trial at 10 locations, the program could roll out across England and reach the U.S.
Posted Apr 8, 2013

Let There Be Light
French artist transforms two Dutch gas stations from the 1980s into works of art.
Posted Apr 5, 2013

Stronger Warnings on Tobacco Sold in India
A new law with tougher graphic cautions on tobacco products went into effect April 1.
Posted Apr 4, 2013

U.K. Government Considers Freezing Minimum Wage
The government would do so if the wage increases begin to hurt the economy.
Posted Apr 3, 2013

President Chain Store Seeks Growth in China, Philippines
Taiwan’s largest operator of 7-Eleven stores says it’s slowing the pace of overseas expansion and focusing more on the Chinese and Philippines markets.
Posted Apr 1, 2013

Turning Lawns Into Food Packaging
Scientists at the Bangor and Aberystwyth Universities have found a way to turn grass into food packaging trays that can be used for soft fruits such as plums and pears.
Posted Apr 1, 2013

India's Coffee Culture to Boost Global Bean Prices
The world's fourth-largest exporter of robusta coffee beans is reserving a growing percentage of its crop for local consumption.
Posted Mar 19, 2013

Tesco Purchases Giraffe Restaurant Chain
The grocery store chain plans to use the family restaurants to create "retail destinations."
Posted Mar 15, 2013

American Craft Beer Resonating Overseas
American craft beer exports surged 72% last year to an all-time sales record.
Posted Mar 14, 2013

C-Store Association Criticizes Canada's Citizen's Arrest Act
A new law would allow people to make a citizen's arrest after witnessing a crime, which could put c-store employees in danger.
Posted Mar 13, 2013

Global Foodservice Traffic Sluggish in Q4
During the last months of 2012, global foodservice was down but spending jumped in many countries.
Posted Mar 13, 2013

New Research Confirms Plain Packaging Fears
Australia's plain packaging law on all tobacco products is having a negative impact on small retailers.
Posted Mar 11, 2013

Ontario Convenience Stores Applaud Federal Action on Contraband Tobacco
The government is imposing greater enforcement and penalties for trafficking of contraband tobacco.
Posted Mar 8, 2013

QSRs Top Traditional Restaurant Sales in France
For the first time, nationwide QSR food sales in France have exceeded those of traditional restaurant meals.
Posted Mar 7, 2013

New South Wales Retailers Must Label Prepared Foods
Mandatory labeling requires that kilojoule (calorie) counts must be included on all ready-to-eat meals.
Posted Mar 6, 2013

Ontario Continues Fight Against Contraband Cigarette Trade
The illegal cigarette trade has flourished in the province, despite efforts by authorities to crack down.
Posted Mar 1, 2013

U.K. Grows Electric Vehicle Charging Locations
The government is increasing the number of plug-in points for electric cars.
Posted Feb 27, 2013

Russia Passes Smoking Ban
Both parliamentary houses approved the measure to ban smoking in public places.
Posted Feb 22, 2013

New Zealand Announces Plan for Plain Tobacco Packaging
Tobacco companies have already indicated that they will fight the measure.
Posted Feb 21, 2013

Morrisons Intensifies C-Store Growth
The U.K.'s fourth largest supermarket chain is boosting its c-store expansion plans, an effort to regain market share from its rivals.
Posted Feb 19, 2013

Trans-Canada Electric Expands EV Charging Station Network
Canadian companies are focusing on the country's current charging infrastructure to expand the number of electric vehicle charging stations.
Posted Feb 19, 2013

Tim Hortons Pilots Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
In Canada, the restaurant/QSR chain is partnering with Oakville Hydro and the town of Oakville on the project.
Posted Feb 15, 2013

Chinese C-Store Goes Undercover
The Lawson location has reinvented itself as a "Detective Conan" themed store.
Posted Feb 15, 2013

Australian McDonald's Offers Table Service, New Name
A franchise outside of Sydney is now offering table service, while several others have changed their signage to Macca's, a reference to its local nickname.
Posted Feb 12, 2013

UPS Launches U.K. Parcel Pickup in C-Stores
UPS Access Point gives customers the option to collect their online purchases in convenience stores and petrol stations.
Posted Feb 11, 2013

Health Canada Licenses Energy Shots
The health ministry has approved around 20 energy shot drinks, each containing between 100 milligrams and 200 milligrams of caffeine.
Posted Feb 6, 2013

Carrefour Plans C-Store Expansion
The European retailer could boost its network of convenience stores in France by 350 locations this year.
Posted Feb 4, 2013

U.K. Health Experts Urge "Fat Tax" for Soft Drinks
An alliance of 61 organizations is urging the British government to include the tax in the spring budget.
Posted Jan 30, 2013

New Brunswick Sued Over Alcohol Import Restrictions
A lawyer has sued the province over its 60-year old liquor rule that restricts how much alcohol citizens can import from other provinces.
Posted Jan 29, 2013

European Union Announces Ambitious Alternative Fuels Plan
The proposal would establish more alternative fuel distribution infrastructures across the European Union.
Posted Jan 28, 2013

Russia Drops Cigarette Sale Restrictions on Antismoking Bill
The public smoking ban remains, but the right to establish minimum prices for cigarettes was dropped.
Posted Jan 25, 2013

Walmart to Blanket Canada With Food
In response to Target's arrival, Walmart is expanding its fresh food offerings to each of its stores in Canada.
Posted Jan 24, 2013

Ontario Convenience Stores Keep Tobacco From Kids
Retailers are also asking the Canadian government for assistance during the country's National Non-Smoking Week.
Posted Jan 22, 2013

Canadian Convenience Stores Brace for Penny Expiration
The Canadian one-cent coin is set to expire on Feb. 4, but the Atlantic Convenience Stores Association expects confusion for both retailers and consumers.
Posted Jan 22, 2013

Don't Overlook Convenience
The majority of convenience stores in Australia are small businesses operated by those who employ their families and staff from the local area they serve.
Posted Jan 21, 2013

Australians Debate Soda Tax
A new campaign is trying to encourage less soda consumption while touting a tax on soft drinks.
Posted Jan 18, 2013

Krispy Kreme Goes to India
The company is getting set to open its first doughnut and coffeeshop in Bangalore.
Posted Jan 18, 2013

Spar UK Extends Private-Label Wine to C-Stores
The international retailer hopes to attract customers to its conveniences stores with two new California wines.
Posted Jan 18, 2013

Chinese Legislature Considers National Tobacco Control Law
The government is looking into the country's first measure of its kind that would restrict smoking and tobacco use.
Posted Jan 4, 2013

Ontario Launches Alcohol Kiosks
Beginning later this year, liquor and wine will be available at 10 LCBO Express kiosks.
Posted Jan 3, 2013

Canada Caps Caffeine in Energy Drinks
A new Health Canada rule forces manufacturers to reformulate 28 drinks, capping caffeine content at 180 mg per serving.
Posted Jan 2, 2013

U.K. Convenience Stores Nip at Grocery Stores Heels
Retailers are grabbing nearly as much share of the pound as supermarkets.
Posted Oct 31, 2012

Toronto Bag Ban Draws Stiff Opposition
Toronto plastic bag ban battle looms, with the Ontario Convenience Stores Association blasting proposed consultations as meaningless.
Posted Oct 29, 2012

Local U.K. Shops Not Yet Benefiting from Economic Growth
While the Office of National Statistics finds the economy trending up, small retailers in the United Kingdom are still struggling.
Posted Oct 26, 2012

Burger King to Expand Colombia Presence
The burger chain recently announced plans to open more than 100 restaurants in the South American country.
Posted Oct 26, 2012

Taiwan C-store Count Jumps 3.67%
This marks the second consecutive year of growth in the number of convenience stores.
Posted Oct 24, 2012

China's Love Affair With Fast Food Slumps
Coke, KFC and McDonald's sales have dropped after several years of growth.
Posted Oct 24, 2012

Tesco Repackages Fresh & Easy for U.K. Products
The U.S. brand is appearing on store shelves overseas, a move that surprises analysts.
Posted Oct 22, 2012

Burger King Selects Nescafé Milano for Specialty Coffee Blends
Burger King is responding to growing consumer demand for specialty coffee in Latin America and Caribbean markets.
Posted Oct 22, 2012

Manitoba Seizes Nearly 2 Million Contraband Cigarettes
The lucrative cigarette black market is contributing to the demise of small businesses in the province, including convenience stores.
Posted Oct 19, 2012

Couche-Tard Finalizes Statoil Purchase
The acquisition moves Couche-Tard into the oil business.
Posted Oct 19, 2012

Russia to Crack Down on Smoking
The prime minister is pushing a bill that would ban tobacco advertising and increase cigarette taxes.
Posted Oct 17, 2012

Contraband Tobacco Costs Greece Millions
The Greek state loses up to 400 million euros annually in tax revenue because of a thriving black market cigarette trade.
Posted Oct 15, 2012

C-Store Rivalry Heats Up
In Korea, competition within the convenience store industry is increasing among the country's top retailers.
Posted Oct 15, 2012

Canadian Merchants Scramble to Fend Off Dollar Stores
Many retailers had ignored the coming of discount stores like Walmart, but are now faced with stiff competition from that sector.
Posted Oct 10, 2012

Australia Tobacco Law Leaves Intellectual Property Rights Intact
The high court dismissed the case filed by international cigarette companies.
Posted Oct 8, 2012

Toronto Council Reconsiders Banning Plastic Bags
Last month, the Ontario Convenience Store Association had announced it would seek legal action to stop the ban.
Posted Oct 3, 2012

Tobacco Tax Increase Hits France
The French government has raised the tax by 6.5%, the first bump in the country since 2004.
Posted Oct 3, 2012

Eat Fresh...Veggies
Subway will soon open its fourth vegetarian location in India.
Posted Oct 3, 2012

Korea to Open First Hybrid Convenience Store-Pharmacy
Store comes just months after the South Korean government passed legislation to allow the sale of some non-prescription drugs at convenience stores and supermarkets.
Posted Oct 2, 2012

Court Hears Retailers Case on OFT News and Magazine Failure
The Association of Convenience Stores has called for the Office of Fair Trading to intervene or break up the newspaper and magazine supply monopoly.
Posted Oct 1, 2012

Ontario C-store Association Threatens Legal Action Over Bag Ban
The ban on plastic bags is scheduled to start January 1.
Posted Sep 27, 2012

Tesco Expands Online Reach
The U.K. grocer has rolled out more "dark stores" for its online grocery fulfillment centers.
Posted Sep 26, 2012

Swiss Not Neutral on Smoking Ban Referendum
Many residents are opposed to a nationwide smoking ban in public spaces.
Posted Sep 25, 2012

Toronto Gas Theft Fatality Prompts Calls for Prepay
Meanwhile, a gas theft increase in Australia has led to the creation of a registry to combat the problem.
Posted Sep 20, 2012

ACS Calls for Minimum Wage Freeze
According to the Association of Convenience Stores, most U.K. retailers would be negatively impacted by a higher national starting wage.
Posted Sep 19, 2012

Japanese Convenience Stores Pursue Growth
The three major c-store operators in the country posted record operating profits for the year ending in February 2012.
Posted Sep 18, 2012

Ontario Convenience Stores Applaud Anti-Contraband Tobacco Support
The major of Hamilton will encourage the Ontario Minister of Finance to increase efforts to help fight contraband tobacco.
Posted Sep 17, 2012

Northern Ireland Assembly Members Approve Tobacco Ad, Promo Ban
The new regulations are aimed at keeping young people from smoking.
Posted Sep 12, 2012

Canadian Government Over-Regulates C-Store Industry
Owners have to contend with more than 500 different federal and provincial laws and rules.
Posted Sep 12, 2012

U.K. Supermarkets Compete for Gas Station Business
Britain's supermarkets are offering steep discounts on gasoline, leading to tough times for many independent gas stations.
Posted Sep 11, 2012

Morrisons Shares Convenience Store Strategy
The supermarket group Wm Morrison is slated to launch 20 c-stores in the United Kingdom this year.
Posted Sep 7, 2012

McDonald's to Open First Vegetarian Outlet
Expansion in India is bringing a reassessment of dietary preferences, which has led to the first beef-less McDonald's restaurant in the world.
Posted Sep 6, 2012

France Considering Six Percent Tobacco Tax Increase
The government is also considering a one-time tax of 200 million euros ($250 million U.S.) on the tobacco industry to finance anti-smoking measures.
Posted Sep 6, 2012

Australia Rejects Ukraine WTO Challenge on Plain Packaging
The Eastern European country has requested that the World Trade Organization convene a panel on possible trademark infringement.
Posted Sep 5, 2012

Lawson Brews Success With Foodservice Sales
The Japanese chain is adding higher-margin foodservice items in an effort to boost earnings over the next five years. In India, Essar is also targeting new customers with products ranging from ice cream to tires and mobile phones.
Posted Sep 4, 2012

Ontario Retailers Push for Driver's License Modification
The change would make it easier to identify minors who attempt to purchase age-restricted products.
Posted Aug 31, 2012

BufferBox Takes On Amazon Locker
The Canadian startup company has partnered with Walmart and Google in an attempt to out gain traction for its own parcel delivery service.
Posted Aug 24, 2012

New Brunswick Tobacco Tax Revenue Outweighs Health Costs
Tobacco companies sued by New Brunswick over health-care costs argue that the province collected more on cigarette taxes than it paid to treat smoking-related illnesses.
Posted Aug 23, 2012

Copenhagen Plans to Be Smoke-Free by 2025
If the plan succeeds, about 4% of Copenhagen's citizens will be smokers, well below the 21% threshold of current smokers.
Posted Aug 22, 2012

Global Food Crisis Looms
The International Food Policy Research Institute calls on the U.S. to halt its biofuel production and instead funnel supplies to food producers.
Posted Aug 17, 2012

Australian Plain Packaging Upheld
The country's High Court ruled that the logo ban can go into effect as scheduled in December.
Posted Aug 16, 2012

British Columbia Experiences Influx of Counterfeit Bills
Bogus bills ranging from $20 to $100 are being "spent" in convenience stores, supermarkets and bars.
Posted Aug 15, 2012

Dunkin' Donuts Poised to Re-enter U.K.
The doughnut chain will likely return to Britain in 2013 as the first step in its European expansion plan.
Posted Aug 15, 2012

Smoke Won't Get in Your Eyes
The largest tobacco firms are investing in smoke-free alternatives.
Posted Aug 14, 2012

Tesco Brings Virtual Shopping to Busy Airport Terminal
Last week Tesco unveiled the U.K.'s first interactive virtual grocery store in Gatwick Airport's North Terminal.
Posted Aug 13, 2012

Statoil Stations Tests Parcel Pickup
Latvian Post is piloting a program that delivers packages to gasoline stations in Riga, Latvia.
Posted Aug 10, 2012

Conservatives Call for Revamp of Ontario Liquor Laws
The Liberals have continuously rebuffed proposals for convenience stores to stock beer and wine.
Posted Aug 10, 2012

Finalists for the Insight NACS International Convenience Retailer of the Year Award Revealed
The winner will be announced at the Insight/NACS Future of International Convenience Retailing 2012 in late September.
Posted Aug 9, 2012

Tesco Trials Virtual Shopping
The test is being conducted at Gatwick Airport.
Posted Aug 8, 2012

Ontario C-Stores Association Launches Billboard Campaign
The campaign aims to raise awareness about the penalties and negative impact of illegal cigarettes.
Posted Aug 2, 2012

EU Files Antitrust Complaint Against Visa Europe
The operator of the largest payment-card network in the European Union has been charged with "too high" credit card fees.
Posted Aug 1, 2012

Vindi Opens Its Doors in Costa Rica
The new brand of convenience stores by Auto Mercado is expected to compete with FreshWay and am/pm stores.
Posted Jul 30, 2012

OCSA Petitions for Alcohol Sales at C-Stores
A Toronto Star op-ed by Dave Bryans of the Ontario Convenience Store Association argues for the modernization of Ontario's liquor laws.
Posted Jul 26, 2012

New Zealand Cigarettes Now Out of Sight
The country's law also allows enforcement officers to immediately fine retailers $1,000 for selling tobacco to minors.
Posted Jul 24, 2012

Ikea Launches Beer Label
Ikea has introduced a private-label beer at its U.K. stores — no assembly required.
Posted Jul 19, 2012

Contraband Cigarettes Increasing in Europe
A new report found that one in 10 cigarettes sold in the European Union was illegal.
Posted Jul 18, 2012

Ministop Establishes Indonesian Presence
The Japanese-based convenience store operator will open at least 300 stores in the country by February 2018.
Posted Jul 16, 2012

Ontario Convenience Stores Association Praises Greater Sudbury City Council
Sudbury urges the Ontario Minister of Finance to increase resources to find contraband tobacco.
Posted Jul 13, 2012

Exxon Mobil Looks Into Selling German Esso Chain
Esso has more than 1,100 gasoline stations in Germany.
Posted Jul 11, 2012

European Airlines To Show Debit Card Fees
Twelve airlines have agreed to post debit card fees when displaying ticket prices so consumers know the full price of what they'll be charged.
Posted Jul 9, 2012

JTI Launches Plain Packaging Campaign
Japan Tobacco International's new ad campaign brings awareness to the potential consequences of standardized cigarette packs in the United Kingdom, including the proliferation of black market cigarettes.
Posted Jul 9, 2012

Extreme Makeover: Philippine 7-Eleven Stores
Philippine Seven Corp. is planning to add new stores and refurbish older sites to put more emphasis on foodservice.
Posted Jul 9, 2012

Japanese 7-Elevens Offer Home Delivery
Japanese 7-Eleven stores are increasing the concept of convenience by taking products directly to consumers via electric cars.
Posted Jul 6, 2012

U.S. Heat Wave to Lead to Rise in Global Food Prices
Already, some international grain prices have risen to highs last seen during the 2007-2008 food crisis.
Posted Jul 6, 2012

Cigarettes in Canada Display Graphic Labels
Images of cancerous mouths and emaciated lung cancer victims are two of 16 new graphic labels that now appear on tobacco products sold in Canada.
Posted Jun 21, 2012

Burger King Expands in China
The fast-food chain will be adding 1,000 franchised locations in the country during the next five to seven years.
Posted Jun 20, 2012

Mobile Payments Come to U.K. Vending Machines
In addition to accepting payments from NFC-enabled smartphones, connected vending machines will allow owners to send offers to customers when they are in the vicinity of the machines.
Posted Jun 19, 2012

South Korea Fuel Marketers Balk Over Discount Retailers
The Korea Oil Station Association (KOSA) said the country's gas station market is "supersaturated," and the government's plan to increase the number of discount stations ignores the financial crisis facing the industry.
Posted Jun 19, 2012

UAE Consumers Trend Toward Convenience Stores
Although big formats dominate the United Arab Emirates retail landscape, convenience formats help retailers expand their local footprint.
Posted Jun 18, 2012

Diplomats Launch Trade Disputes Against Australia
So far, Honduras and Ukraine have challenged the country's tobacco packaging laws before the World Trade Organization.
Posted Jun 15, 2012

NZ Needs to Raise Tobacco Tax 40% to Reach Goals
A health expert maintains that the country must raise taxes by 40% to reach its 2025 smoke-free target.
Posted Jun 12, 2012

England Retailer Earns U.K.'s First 5-Star Motorway Service Station Rating
In addition to sparkling clean bathrooms, the station employs onsite butchers who source beef and lamb from an adjacent farm.
Posted Jun 12, 2012

Imperial Oil Launches Esso Fuel Finder Mobile App
The app uses GPS technology to identify a user's location and highlight nearby Esso stations on an interactive Google map.
Posted Jun 8, 2012

Japanese Brewer Launches Soft-Serve Beer
Kirin adds frozen foam to its Ichiban Shibori beer, creating a taste sensation that resembles frozen yogurt.
Posted Jun 7, 2012

U.K. Transport Secretary Considers Forcing Lower Petrol Prices
The secretary said that retailers are not passing on wholesale price slashes on fuel to customers.
Posted Jun 4, 2012

Indonesia to Expand Network of Compressed Natural Gas Stations
Distributors will open 200 CNG stations over the next three years as part of the government's plan to move from oil to gas.
Posted Jun 4, 2012

7-Eleven Goes Native in Indonesia
The convenience store chain has found a loyal clientele by embracing the Indonesian culture.
Posted May 30, 2012

European Court Rejects MasterCard's Challenge on Card Fees
Last week the General Court dismissed an action brought by MasterCard against a Commission decision of 2007 prohibiting MasterCard's cross-border inter-bank fees.
Posted May 29, 2012

New Zealand Raises Tobacco Taxes by 40%
The government's goal is to snuff out tobacco use entirely by 2025.
Posted May 25, 2012

Ukraine Approves Smoking Ban
Parliament okayed a ban that prohibits smoking cigarettes, electronic cigarettes and hookahs in public places.
Posted May 25, 2012

Israel Launches First Electric Car Network
The concept offers an alternative to the traditional fixed battery charging station.
Posted May 24, 2012

North Korea Capital Sees a Boom in Gas Stations
Pyongyang has become home to more automobiles, which has fueled the growth of gasoline retailers.
Posted May 23, 2012

Canada Officials Crack Down on Illegal Smokes
In May alone nearly 25,000 cartons of contraband tobacco were seized before they could hit the Canadian market.
Posted May 21, 2012

BAT Counters Counterfeit Smokes With Discount Brand
The tobacco company's new discount label, Just Smokes, will compete with illegal counterfeit cigarettes in Australia.
Posted May 21, 2012

U.K. Health Experts Call for Soda Tax
The trio says that a 20% tax on soft drinks would help slim down U.K. residents.
Posted May 18, 2012

New Beverage Targets Your Health
In Japan, a new beverage is being called the world's first health-food soda.
Posted May 18, 2012

Study Offers Insights for Smothering Sales of Contraband Cigarettes
By analyzing the impact of tax and price changes on the cigarette market, policymakers can reduce the sales of illegal tobacco products in Canada.
Posted May 14, 2012

Windsor City Council Commits to Fighting Contraband Tobacco
In Canada, one town formalizes its fight against illegal tobacco, with OCSA offering strong support.
Posted May 11, 2012

Four Years Later, Contraband Tobacco in Canada Still a Problem
Coalition marks fourth anniversary of RCMP contraband tobacco strategy with a call for more action.
Posted May 9, 2012

Ontario to Launch Initiative Encouraging Motorists to Drive Electric
Ontario Transportation Minister Bob Chiarelli said the province will advance millions of dollars to encourage motorists to drive electric cars.
Posted May 8, 2012

EU Scrutinizes Visa, MasterCard for High Fees
The European Union's top antitrust regulator is fuming over the high fees paid by retailers to Visa and MasterCard.
Posted May 7, 2012

7-Eleven Thailand Offers Cutting-Edge Smartphone App
UntapTV and 7-Eleven unveil a new interactive cross-media marketing campaign in Thailand that is accessible through consumers' smartphones.
Posted May 7, 2012

Canadian Federal Excise Stamp Mandatory on Tobacco Products
The government made the announcement yesterday that all tobacco products must carry the federal excise stamp beginning July 1.
Posted May 2, 2012

Ontario C-Stores Applaud Crackdown on Illegal Tobacco Operation
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Canada Border Services Agency and the Ontario Ministry of Finance disrupted a major illegal tobacco manufacturing network operating from an Ontario warehouse.
Posted Apr 30, 2012

McGenius!
A customized burger contest at McDonald's Germany crowns the "Pretzelnator," a classic McDonald's hamburger sandwiched in a pretzel bun.
Posted Apr 26, 2012

New Zealand Officials Secretly Eyeing Huge Cigarette Tax Increase
Confidential government documents reveal a plan to increase the price per pack to $100, a strategy aimed at making the country smoke-free by 2025.
Posted Apr 24, 2012

Ontario Targets Flavored Tobacco
A proposal seeks to close loopholes in a 2010 law that sought to ban flavored tobacco products.
Posted Apr 24, 2012

Couche-Tard Plans European Expansion
The North American convenience store chain has made an offer to purchase a Norwegian-based convenience store and gasoline station chain.
Posted Apr 20, 2012

Canadian C-Stores Support Privatizing P.E.I. Liquor Sales
The Atlantic Convenience Store Association said c-stores are experienced in selling age-related products and expanding the base of alcohol retailers would lead to increased sales and profits for all.
Posted Apr 19, 2012

Tobacco Firms Have Their Day in Australian Court
The case involves whether the country can require cigarettes to be sold in plain packaging with graphic images.
Posted Apr 18, 2012

China Posts Double-Digit Gains in Foodservice
Around the globe, consumer spending on foodservice and store visits posted modest growth in the fourth quarter despite a rocky global economy.
Posted Apr 18, 2012

ACS Crime Survey Reveals Shocking Rise in Convenience Store Robberies
A new survey of U.K. convenience stores reveals a significant increase in employee theft and robberies.
Posted Apr 16, 2012

Consultation Begins on Plain Cigarette Packaging
Beginning today, the U.K. government is examining whether tobacco companies should be forced to sell products in plain packaging.
Posted Apr 16, 2012

Japanese C-Stores See Positive Signs of Growth
Japanese convenience stores are persevering after the 2011 earthquake that devastated the country.
Posted Apr 16, 2012

Eco-Friendly Bike Pedals Into Coffee Business
Entrepreneur Barbara Croce has turned her love of bikes and coffee into a successful mobile business venture.
Posted Apr 16, 2012

Canadians Flock to U.S. for Cheaper Gas
Canadians are paying more for gasoline than their U.S. neighbors, with the average price per gallon in Ontario at $5.06.
Posted Apr 12, 2012

Tobacco Display Ban Takes Effect
As of April 6, stores in England that are larger than 3,000 square feet are no longer allowed to display tobacco products to the general public.
Posted Apr 10, 2012

WTO Labels Flavored Cigarette Ban Discriminatory
The organization ruled that the prohibition violates a trade agreement.
Posted Apr 6, 2012

Canada Disses the Penny
The penny coin is being withdrawn from circulation in Canada because of its low purchasing power.
Posted Apr 2, 2012

Some U.K. Gasoline Stations Go Dark After Run on Fuel
The British government told drivers to fill up prior to a threatened British fuel tank driver strike.
Posted Mar 30, 2012

U.K. Supermarkets Target Smaller Footprints
Retailers such as Tesco are opening smaller convenience stores in town centers.
Posted Mar 28, 2012

Nations Crack Down on Tobacco Smuggling
More than 170 countries are close to signing a treaty that would help stop the proliferation of contraband tobacco.
Posted Mar 28, 2012

U.K. Food, Beverage Companies Slash Calories
Coca-Cola and Mars are among the firms that have signed the Responsibility Deal to help lower obesity in England.
Posted Mar 27, 2012

Imperial Tobacco Says It's a "Big Mistake" to Hike U.K. Tobacco Taxes
The government announced a tobacco tax increase that would jack up the tax to 5% above inflation.
Posted Mar 22, 2012

Extending Sunday Trade During Olympics Will Hurt Small U.K. Shops
The Association of Convenience Stores also takes the U.K. government to task over a proposed a minimum-wage hike.
Posted Mar 21, 2012

More Canadian Stations Considering Prepay
"Gas-and-dash" prompts discussions on mandating prepay at the pump in Prince Edward Island.
Posted Mar 20, 2012

Convenience Stores Rebound in Japan
A year after the earthquake, nuclear accident and tsunami, Japanese convenience stores have regained sales and profits.
Posted Mar 14, 2012

World's Most Bizarre Vending Machines
Vending machine sushi and medical marijuana are just some of the items available in the world's most bizarre vending machines.
Posted Mar 13, 2012

Sainsbury's Growing Online Food Business
British grocer is processing 165,000 orders a week, generating $1.2 billion annually in sales.
Posted Mar 13, 2012

Morrison to Open More Convenience Stores
An 8% profit spurs expansion plans for its smaller format shops.
Posted Mar 12, 2012

Brazil Gas Stations Coming Up Empty
Brazil truckers strike leads to thousands of stations running out of fuel.
Posted Mar 9, 2012

Starbucks to Revamp European Stores
Coffee giant to open 300 new stores in the U.K. while rolling out localized offerings, such as lighter espresso in France and cheaper drinks in Greece.
Posted Mar 5, 2012

India Restaurant Growth Explodes
The country may soon surpass China as the hottest market for restaurants.
Posted Feb 29, 2012

U.K. Shoppers Plan Fewer Trips Due to Rising Gas Prices
However, the reduction in shopping trips will likely benefit convenience stores.
Posted Feb 28, 2012

A Tobacco Cocktail?
Reduced via distillation, tobacco has become an ingredient in mixed drinks.
Posted Feb 22, 2012

Report Questions Benefits of Plain Cigarette Packaging
Adam Smith Institute calls the U.K.'s proposal to introduce plain packaging for cigarettes "profoundly illiberal" and one that sets a dangerous regulatory precedent.
Posted Feb 21, 2012

In China, EVs Could Be More Harmful Than Gas-Powered Cars
Researchers suggest that electric vehicles could be worse for the environment in China than gasoline-powered vehicles.
Posted Feb 20, 2012

Tunisian Gas Station Managers to Strike
The group will shutter service on February 25 unless the government steps up with a plan to halt illegal fuel trafficking.
Posted Feb 17, 2012

The Middle East Embraces Hypermarkets
Big supermarkets are making big investments in the United Arab Emirates.
Posted Feb 15, 2012

Tobacco Contraband Prevalence in U.K. Grows
Findings suggest that one in seven packs of cigarettes is contraband, resulting in billions of lost revenue a year in unpaid taxes as well as increased health risks for consumers.
Posted Feb 14, 2012

Future of Convenience 2012
Join retailers from around the globe in a look at what's on the horizon for our industry.
Posted Feb 8, 2012

U.K. Appellate Judges Shoot Down Display Ban Challenge
The justices have upheld the Scottish government's plan to prohibit open cigarette displays.
Posted Feb 3, 2012

U.S. QSRs, Coffee Brands Flourishing in the United Kingdom
Subway, McDonald's and Starbucks are planning to open hundreds of new stores and create more than 8,000 jobs over the next few years in the United Kingdom.
Posted Jan 31, 2012

Cigarette Prices in GCC Countries to Rise Sharply in 2012
Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates announced plans to impose a "health tax" that will tax cigarettes at roughly 100% of their value, beginning later this year.
Posted Jan 31, 2012

Mexicans Will Have More Starbucks Options in 2012
Operator Alsea expects to open 50 locations throughout the country.
Posted Jan 27, 2012

Mobile Payment Service Offers Premier Movie Experience
In Australia, a new mobile service takes waiting in line for popcorn out of the movie-going experience.
Posted Jan 26, 2012

Egyptian Gas Stations Run Short
Retailers have been receiving less than usual shipments of fuel for days.
Posted Jan 18, 2012

What Recession? Canadian Candy Retailers Living the Sweet Life
Canadians turn to candy stores for inexpensive pleasures.
Posted Jan 17, 2012

A Feminist Touch at the Pump
The Queen is the only Lebanese gas station operated by women.
Posted Jan 6, 2012

Tobacco Firms Shift Gears on U.K. Display Ban Challenge
The four companies had asked for a judicial review of the ban, but dropped the request after the government revised its plan.
Posted Jan 6, 2012

Mobs in Nigeria Angry Over Gas Price Hikes
The Nigerian government has decided to end a subsidy program that kept fuel costs low.
Posted Jan 4, 2012

24/7 Taiwan Convenience Stores Grow by 67%
The number of always-open locations has jumped to nearly 9,500 in a decade.
Posted Jan 4, 2012

France Soda Tax Takes Effect
The so-called "cola tax" adds a 1 euro cent to soft drinks.
Posted Jan 4, 2012

Wendy's Tests New Ultra-Modern Concept in Canada
Features include new menu items and a completely redesigned interior and exterior to help convey "fresh" and enhance the customer experience.
Posted Oct 31, 2011

India Embraces Fast Food
QSRs are finding great success in the country, as more global chains add traditional Indian ingredients and spices to their menu items.
Posted Oct 28, 2011

France Backs Soft Drink Tax
The proposal is considered a revenue generator and would be earmarked to help combat obesity.
Posted Oct 25, 2011

Northern Ireland Considers Big Box Store Tax to Aid Small Retailers
With its 17-percent store vacancy rate, Northern Ireland proposes a "large retailer levy," a plan that would redistribute funds via a business rate relief plan to small businesses.
Posted Oct 25, 2011

Tim Hortons Announces New Cup-to-Tray Recycling Program
The QSR becomes the first in Canada to "close the loop" and recycle its used cups into another product it uses, take-out-trays.
Posted Oct 24, 2011

Northern Ireland Loses £85 Million Annually to Contraband Tobacco
Criminals are raking in £29 million from illegal cigarettes.
Posted Oct 21, 2011

7-Eleven Plans Major Ontario Expansion
7-Eleven's presence in Canada would increase by nearly 50 percent.
Posted Oct 20, 2011

U.K. Retailers Urge Break Up of Publication Distribution Monopoly
Retailers express concerns over "worryingly low" availability and declining profitability.
Posted Oct 20, 2011

Irish Retailers Call Bag Tax "Unnecessary"
Opponents propose voluntary methods instead of a government mandate to ease the burden on retailers such a tax would incur.
Posted Oct 19, 2011

Lawson Plans China Growth
The Japanese convenience store operator is looking outside its home country for expansion opportunities.
Posted Oct 14, 2011

Fuel Deserts Proliferate Across United Kingdom
The number of gas stations in the U.K. continues to shrink, leading to regions with a scarcity of motor fuel options.
Posted Oct 13, 2011

Northern Ireland to Implement Single-Use Bag Tax
The Association of Convenience Stores strongly opposes the levy, which would disproportionately affect local shops.
Posted Oct 12, 2011

Canada Caps Caffeine in Energy Drinks
Health Canada limits the amount of caffeine per can of energy drink to 180 milligrams, roughly equivalent to the amount of caffeine in a medium cup of coffee.
Posted Oct 11, 2011

France Adds Tax on Sugary Soda
The country's so-called "fat tax" will increase the cost of sweetened beverages like Coca-Cola and Fanta by 3 Euro cents per liter.
Posted Oct 7, 2011

Australia Considers Plain Packaging for All Tobacco Products
The country's health minister is recommending the same plain, olive green tobacco packaging for chewing tobacco, cigars and cigarillos.
Posted Oct 5, 2011

Denmark Adds Tax on Fatty Foods
The country has applied a surcharge on all foods containing more than 2.3 percent of saturated fats.
Posted Oct 4, 2011

Ontario Government Muzzles Convenience Stores From Informing Public About Contraband Tobacco
The government tells retailers that they cannot display a poster featuring a closed convenience store within public view.
Posted Sep 30, 2011

Canada Reveals World's Largest, Most Graphic Cigarette Labels
Starting in mid-2012, the new labels will be over 75 percent of cigarette packaging.
Posted Sep 28, 2011

Canadian Convenience Stores Fighting for Survival
The Atlantic Convenience Stores Association says the government is not stepping up to help retailers.
Posted Sep 21, 2011

Tesco Adds Self-Checkout to European Stores
Customers at Tesco stores in eight countries globally are benefitting from less waiting and quicker speed of service with self-checkouts.
Posted Sep 19, 2011

Family Mart Reaches Earthquake Survivors With Mobile Convenience Stores
Three new mobile convenience stores are serving residents with groceries and other essentials.
Posted Sep 15, 2011

Indonesians Flock to 7-Eleven to See, Be Seen
With thumping techno music and free Wi-Fi, 7-Eleven is the go-to hot spot in Indonesia.
Posted Sep 15, 2011

Waitrose to Launch C-Store Trial With Shell
The trial later this year with Shell is part of a dedicated effort for the U.K. supermarket chain to expand into smaller outlets.
Posted Sep 13, 2011

Australian Convenience Stores Eye Alcohol Sales
Retailers say that alcohol sales will help offset the rising costs of utilities and labor.
Posted Sep 7, 2011

India Cigarette Tax Hike Could Encourage Smuggling
The increase in the value-added tax on cigarettes in Bengal raises concerns about smuggling and contraband sales across state borders.
Posted Sep 6, 2011

Tesco Withdraws From Japan
The U.K. supermarket chain put more than £250 million and eight years into its Japanese venture.
Posted Sep 2, 2011

Taiwan C-store Chain Told to Halt Travel Service to China
Last month, FamilyMart debuted a service that processed travel applications to China.
Posted Sep 2, 2011

Beer Without the Buzz
Non-alcohol versions of beer are taking off in Europe.
Posted Aug 31, 2011

Libya To Resume Oil Production
The country produced 1.6 million barrels of oil a day before an uprising against Gaddafi erupted in February.
Posted Aug 29, 2011

Northern Ireland Pushes Tobacco Display Ban
The display ban could begin as early as spring 2012; the Health Minister also plans to ban cigarette vending machines.
Posted Aug 25, 2011

"Clean Up on Aisle Five - and the ER!"
Morrisons is developing plans for in-store surgeries.
Posted Aug 24, 2011

Japanese Convenience Store Record Huge Sales Jump in July
Heat wave contributes to a 9.5% sales increase.
Posted Aug 24, 2011

Magazine Sections Shrinking in Canadian Convenience Stores
Wholesalers need to provide more in-store service to help revive the category, says one Canadian c-store executive.
Posted Aug 23, 2011

Coalition Opposes Australia's Plain Tobacco Packaging Bill
The group says the legislation would give the government authority to alter trademark provisions.
Posted Aug 17, 2011

British Town Cracks Down on Counterfeit Cigarettes
Aggressive tactics, including random stops and undercover store surveillance, lead to seizures of thousands of counterfeit cigarettes.
Posted Aug 16, 2011

Spar Launches New Economy Private Label
The S Budget private label will hit the U.K., following successful responses to the new range in other countries across Europe.
Posted Aug 15, 2011

7-Eleven Australia Reaches 500-Store Milestone
Since the first 7-Eleven store in Australia opened in 1977, the business has been opening an average of 15 new stores per year.
Posted Aug 15, 2011

U.K. Minimum Wage Hikes Harms Retailers
The Association of Convenience Stores said independents are hurting because of changes to the national minimum wage.
Posted Aug 12, 2011

Ontario Gas Stations Coming Up Dry
Gas shortages in Nova Scotia have spread to Ontario stations.
Posted Aug 11, 2011

U.K. Businesses Face "Huge" Costs Associated With Riots
Damage costs are expected to run into the tens of millions of dollars; some retailers will be unable to reopen.
Posted Aug 11, 2011

Britain Considers Smoking Ban in Parks, Cars
"Zero-tolerance" zones will be created under new laws.
Posted Aug 10, 2011

Canadian Retailers Seek Delay of Minimum Wage Increase
Prince Edward Island's minimum wage is increasing rapidly and is scheduled to hit $10 per hour by next April, a rise that some predict will lead to c-store closures.
Posted Aug 9, 2011

Britain to Lower Taxes on Low-Alcohol Beer
England will lower taxes on low strength (2.8 percent or less alcohol) beer by 50 percent, which is prompting brewers to develop new recipes.
Posted Aug 9, 2011

Australian Tobacco Industry Wants Packaging Extension
The companies say it will not be able to meet the July 1, 2012, deadline, to have plain packaging for its cigarettes.
Posted Aug 5, 2011

Nova Scotia Gas Shortages Continue
With the Imperial Oil refinery inoperable since July 21, some stations have run out of gas.
Posted Aug 4, 2011

Canadian Retailers Realize Sharp Drop in Gas Theft
Coordinated approach among police and gas station personnel has led to a dramatic decrease in gas theft in Moncton, New Brunswick.
Posted Jul 28, 2011

Ontario Consumers Voice Approval for Better Beer and Wine Access
Sixty percent of consumers surveyed said they want more access to their soft alcohol purchases, which currently are limited to government-run LCBO stores and The Beer Stores.
Posted Jul 28, 2011

British Beer Sales Drop to 14-Year Low
The British Beer & Pub Association attributes the sharp drop to rising beer taxes, which have increased 35.4 percent since March 2008.
Posted Jul 28, 2011

South Korea Considers "Alternative Stations" to Curb High Prices
The "alternative gas stations" would sell fuel at lower prices in an effort to help curb rising energy prices.
Posted Jul 27, 2011

Food Prices to Stay High
Underinvestment and climate change are responsible for global food prices remaining high.
Posted Jul 26, 2011

Opinion: Raising Cigarette Taxes Will Help Illegal Trade
The Canadian Convenience Stores Association contends that higher cigarette taxes decreases business for retailers.
Posted Jul 25, 2011

Strike One for Starbucks
In a first for the coffee giant, Chilean workers strike for higher pay, benefits.
Posted Jul 19, 2011

Higher Cigarette Taxes Don't Deter Smoking
A new Canadian study found that smokers are largely unfazed by tax hikes on cigarettes.
Posted Jul 18, 2011

Australia Edges Closer to World's Most Restrictive Tobacco Law
As Australia moves to implement the most restrictive tobacco regulations in the world, Both Philip Morris and BAT have warned that they could pursue legal action against the Australian government.
Posted Jul 11, 2011

U.K. Convenience War Heats Up
With a new c-store format opened just last week, U.K. supermarket chain Wm Morrison is not alone in the battle for c-store format dominance.
Posted Jul 11, 2011

British Supermarkets Eye Convenience Stores as Growth Areas
Asda, J Sainsbury, Wm Morrison and Tesco all have plans to expand or launch smaller locations.
Posted Jul 7, 2011

Philip Morris Files for Compensation in Australia
The tobacco company is seeking billions of dollars in compensation from new rules that would require plain cigarette packaging.
Posted Jul 1, 2011

Operation Freeze Speaks Positively to Youth
The Ontario Provincial Police have teamed up with Mac's Convenience Stores to reward positive behavior in young people this summer.
Posted Jul 1, 2011

Waitrose Intensifies C-Store Push
The U.K.-based retailer has upped its initial goal of 300 convenience stores to 500.
Posted Jun 30, 2011

Carrefour Rebrands Smaller C-Stores
The world's second-largest retailer is rebranding16 of its Carrefour Express stores to Carrefour Market.
Posted Jun 27, 2011

Coffee Demand Brews in China
High-end coffee is big business in China, with Starbucks looking to add more than 1,000 new stores in the country by 2015.
Posted Jun 23, 2011

Imperial Tobacco Canada Sues First Nations Tobacco Manufacturers, Retailers
The $1.5 billion lawsuit claims the tribes operate without adhering to laws and regulations governing tobacco.
Posted Jun 21, 2011

Kiwis Look Forward to Foodservice and Fuel
New Zealanders will soon enjoy dining at Subway restaurants while shopping Mobil On the Run convenience stores.
Posted Jun 20, 2011

Imperial Tobacco Slashes Prices in Spain
The company is attempting to stem profit losses after a weak economy and new smoking restrictions have cut down volume.
Posted Jun 14, 2011

Canadian C-Store Operator Bans Hoodies
The retailer says he implemented the new rule to keep his workers safe.
Posted Jun 14, 2011

Lawson, Yahoo Japan Offer Joint Shopping Service
The smartphone service will also direct users to nearby Lawson convenience stores.
Posted Jun 10, 2011

Deadly E. Coli Strain Plagues Europe
The World Health Organization says that this particular E. coli strain is a "mutant" strain that has never been seen before.
Posted Jun 3, 2011

Alberta Police Call for Pay-First Gas Pumps
Thanks to an increase in fuel theft, the Association of Police Chiefs wants to mandate prepay pumps.
Posted Jun 2, 2011

Canadian Restaurants Branch Out to Food Shops
For restaurateurs, retail is a natural extension while their customer base is a natural fit for the retail experience.
Posted Jun 2, 2011

Canadian Convenience Stores Good at Restricting Beer Sales to Minors
Convenience stores had the highest success rate in keeping alcohol out of the hands of minors.
Posted Jun 1, 2011

Australian Parliament Backs Anti-Smoking Laws
Australia is on tap to pass one of the world's toughest smoking laws.
Posted Jun 1, 2011

Smoking in U.K. Could Vanish by 2050
Analysts found that the declining trends could mean smoking would "virtually disappear" by mid-century in Britain.
Posted May 27, 2011

U.K. Convenience Stores Realize Strong Gains
Sales at Britain's convenience stores rise 4.9 percent to $52.57 billion.
Posted May 26, 2011

Japanese Natural Disasters Cause Drastic Decline in Foodservice Traffic
Double-digit traffic declines follow the earthquake and its aftermath.
Posted May 24, 2011

In Canada, Manitoba Revamps Liquor Laws
Kiosks to go in food stores — 38 changes in liquor laws.
Posted May 24, 2011

Canadian C-Stores Ask Ontario to Stop Using Underage Teens in Tobacco Stings
The Ontario Convenience Stores Association say that the province recruits minors to mystery shop cigarette purchases.
Posted May 20, 2011

Australia's Tobacco Firms Threaten Price Cuts
If plain packaging is implemented, Australia's tobacco industry is threatening to cut the price of cigarettes if it is forced to remove branding from packets.
Posted May 18, 2011

McDonald's Shaking Up European Food Ordering
The change is part of the company's strategy to woo cash-strapped customers with added convenience.
Posted May 17, 2011

Tobacco Retailers Denounce Plain Cigarette Packaging Policy
Plain cigarette packaging is doing "more harm than good'," according to Australia retailers.
Posted May 5, 2011

Tap-and-Go Payments on the Rise in UK
Within the next few weeks, the first mobile phones that allow consumers to tap-and-go will go on sale in England.
Posted May 3, 2011

China's Smoking Ban Started Yesterday
Smoking is now outlawed in some public places, such as restaurants, buses and bars, but does not encompass workplaces.
Posted May 2, 2011

McDonald's Plans Big Expansion in China
The burger chain will open 700 new locations in the country within two years.
Posted Apr 29, 2011

British Consumers Walking to Stores More
Shoppers in the United Kingdom are visiting small, local shops within walking distance.
Posted Apr 28, 2011

C-Stores Threatened by Swipe Fees, Contraband Tobacco
Canadian Convenience Stores Association urges members to band together to try to bring about industry change.
Posted Apr 27, 2011

U.K. C-stores Mad About Sunday Trading Suggested Change
The owners of small stores are angry about the government's attempt to end current Sunday trading laws.
Posted Apr 20, 2011

Nigerian Election Results Cause Riots
Hundreds are injured during protests after President Goodluck Jonathan is declared the winner.
Posted Apr 20, 2011

High Gasoline Prices Drive U.K. Consumers to the Web
With gasoline prices in England continuing to climb, U.K. residents are increasingly staying home and shopping on the web, conserving fuel.
Posted Apr 19, 2011

Japan 7-Eleven Refits 5,000 Stores With Power-Saving Bulbs
The change is part of a 10 billion yen initiative to counter expected power problems in parts of the country this summer.
Posted Apr 18, 2011

Taiwan C-Stores To Sell Railway Tickets
Four convenience store chains have won the right to sell train tickets to travelers.
Posted Apr 15, 2011

Gas Price Increases Cost Canadians $950 More Per Year
Consumer spending in most categories is expected to fall, with fuel consumption projected to remain stable.
Posted Apr 14, 2011

Australia Reveals New Cigarette Packaging
Parliament will vote later this year on packaging graphics that depict rotting teeth and diseased eyes.
Posted Apr 8, 2011

New Brunswick Retailers Say Gas Regs Putting Them Out of Business
Since provincial price regulations went into effect in 2006, 17 percent of gasoline stations have closed, and profit margins for fuel have dropped substantially.
Posted Apr 7, 2011

British American Tobacco to Create 'Safer' Nicotine Products
The company will work on developing nicotine products without tobacco for consumers who want options to cigarettes.
Posted Apr 6, 2011

In U.K., Post Office Locals Address Urgent Needs
The government wants to replace current sub-post offices with Post Office Local outlets in convenience stores and supermarkets.
Posted Apr 5, 2011

U.K. Soft Drink Sales Jump 7.5 Percent
The increase in 'top up' shopping and single serve soft drinks sales is great news for convenience store retailers.
Posted Mar 31, 2011

McDonald's Spices Up Indian Market
The QSR is launching a range of new McSpicy products in India that are tailored to customer taste buds.
Posted Mar 30, 2011

Tobacco Taxes Expected to Boost Canada's Black Market Trade
New Brunswick Finance Minister Blaine Higgs appeals to the public to smoke lawfully traded cigarettes.
Posted Mar 29, 2011

Full-Service Stations Fading Into Yesteryear
The Edmonton Journal highlights the demise of the full-service gas station from Edmonton's retail landscape.
Posted Mar 29, 2011

Imperial Tobacco Hurt by Smoking Ban in Spain
The country is one of the tobacco company's largest markets.
Posted Mar 28, 2011

New Brunswick Raises Gas and Cigarette Taxes
The Canadian province increases cigarette taxes $1.31 per pack and gasoline taxes 11 cents per gallon.
Posted Mar 24, 2011

Convenience Stores in China Provide Healthier Meals
Country's top three convenience stores commit to lower sodium, fewer calories in their popular meal boxes.
Posted Mar 22, 2011

FDA to Increase Inspections of Food From Japan
Agency to assess radiation risks from imported products, including seafood, snack items and processed produce.
Posted Mar 22, 2011

UK Tobacco Display Ban, Plain Packaging Requirement Move Forward
Display ban affects big shops next April and small shops in April 2015. Meanwhile, a plain packaging proposal is also gaining momentum.
Posted Mar 11, 2011

Canadian C-Store Owners Blast Parliament's Failure to Address Contraband Tobacco
While the government proposed curbs on the use of flavoring agents, it failed to address contraband sales.
Posted Mar 11, 2011

McDonald's Global Sales McRising
McCafé, premium beef campaign, and "Big Tasty" promotion help fuel growth.
Posted Mar 10, 2011

Canadians Brace for Huge Beer Price Hike
Rising cost of barley will result in higher beer prices across Canada.
Posted Mar 10, 2011

Australian Banks Prepare for Credit Card Fee Fight
The government plans to get rid of over-the-limit credit card fees, among other things.
Posted Mar 9, 2011

All U.K. Smokes To Begin Dressing Down
Britain is expected to announce strict new packaging rules for tobacco this week, requiring cigarette packets to be stripped of graphics and logos and to include only health warnings
Posted Mar 8, 2011

Smaller Stores Caught in Supermarket Pricing War
Australia's supermarket pricing wars are threatening the survival of the country's convenience stores.
Posted Mar 8, 2011

ZOOM and Pronto Expand Middle East Footprint
The to companies will rely on franchisees to expand their convenience store presence in the Middle East.
Posted Mar 8, 2011

Tim Hortons Launches Real Fruit Smoothies
New product is being touted as a good-for-you option for on-the-go customers.
Posted Mar 4, 2011

Aussie C-Stores Take Big Hit as Smokers Turn to Black Market
The Australian Association of Convenience Stores' State of the Industry Report notes that $1.1 billion in excise taxes are being avoided as a result of illegal cigarette sales.
Posted Mar 3, 2011

Tesco Direct Eyes Pick Up of Web Orders at C-Stores
British supermarket chain is reportedly considering plans to allow its customers to pick up orders place via the Internet at its network of convenience stores.
Posted Mar 1, 2011

Ontario C-Stores Want Alcohol Sales To Be Part of Liquor Law Discussions
Opinion polls show that Ontarians want greater convenience when buying beer and wine.
Posted Feb 28, 2011

Nyet! Russia to Curb Strong Beer
Bill would ban beers stronger than five percent alcohol from outdoor kiosks, airports, and train stations, as well as in stores between 11 p.m. and 8 a.m.
Posted Feb 24, 2011

Canada Proposal: Warnings on Tobacco Packages
Nearly every panel of a cigarette pack, both inside and out, would be covered with graphic images and health warnings, under a proposed regulation.
Posted Feb 22, 2011

Monthly Visitors to Japanese C-Stores Tops One Billion
Japan's convenience store sales rose 5.1% in January.
Posted Feb 22, 2011

France to Probe Swipe Fees
France's Finance Minister has asked lawmakers to investigate the fees charged to merchants by banks and credit card companies on purchases made with plastic.
Posted Feb 22, 2011

Energy Drink Industry Fires Back Against Report
Refreshments Canada says new report spreads misinformation; maintains energy drinks aren't recommended for children anyway and shouldn't be regulated.
Posted Feb 17, 2011

Uproar Over Israel's Gas Tax Increase Leads to Price Cut
Mass public criticism over the increase of Israel's gas tax prompts the country's Prime Minister and Finance Minister to rescind the tax.
Posted Feb 16, 2011

Ontario Official: Beer Is Too Expensive
Canadian official says, if elected, he'll seek to lower beer prices.
Posted Feb 10, 2011

Canadian Beer Industry May Prompt Delays in Labeling Rules
Canada's beer industry opposes Canada's new labeling requirement, arguing it is cost prohibitive to implement, especially for smaller brewers.
Posted Feb 8, 2011

Tim Hortons Announces Middle East Expansion Plans
The company reached an agreement for up to 120 multi-format restaurants over five-years in Gulf Cooperation Council markets.
Posted Feb 8, 2011

7-Eleven Japan Embraces Environment With New Stores
The convenience store chain has added many eco-friendly features to new locations.
Posted Feb 7, 2011

Czechs to Raise Tobacco Taxes
The legislature approved a proposal to increase taxes on cigarettes and tobacco products to generate state revenue.
Posted Feb 7, 2011

McDonald's Canada Offers More for the Breakfast Crowd
The QSR chain has launched fresh baked buttermilk biscuits and extended breakfast hours to 11:00 am.
Posted Feb 4, 2011

Coke Brand Breaks Billion Dollar Barrier in China
Minute Maid Pulpy becomes Coke's 14th brand to achieve at least $1 billion in sales.
Posted Feb 3, 2011

Wendy's Moves Into Argentinean Market
A new agreement with DEGASA will bring 50 Wendy's quick-service restaurants to Argentina over the next 10 years.
Posted Jan 28, 2011

Scottish Tobacco Display Ban Delayed by Legal Appeal
The ban was supposed to start for big retailers in October.
Posted Jan 26, 2011

World Leaders at U.N. To Discuss Junk Food Ad Ban
The World Health Organization (WHO) said heads of state would use part of the U.N. General Assembly's September meeting in New York to discuss restricting junk food advertising to children.
Posted Jan 25, 2011

Red Bull Reports Sales of More than 4 Billion Cans Globally Last Year
Shifts focus to Brazil, India and China after best year in its history.
Posted Jan 25, 2011

U.K. Mandates Minimum Prices for Alcohol
Stores no longer will be allowed to sell alcohol as a loss leader.
Posted Jan 20, 2011

Europeans Embrace Networking Breakfasts
In Europe, businessmen and women are turning breakfast into the new power lunch, but the noontime meal still holds its appeal to many in the art world.
Posted Jan 19, 2011

Conflict of Laws: First Nation Seeks Return of Seized Smokes
Montana First Nation maintains reserve tobacco sales fall under federal statute, which means provincial laws don't apply.
Posted Jan 18, 2011

Japanese McDonald's Dishes Piled-High Burgers
The fast-food chain offers beefier versions of its traditional burgers.
Posted Jan 17, 2011

Indians Will Soon Drink Starbucks Coffee
The coffeehouse chain teamed up with Tata Coffee to launch its first store in India.
Posted Jan 17, 2011

Oh Canada! You're Getting Target Stores!
Much like the United States, the rivalry between Walmart and Target isn't expected to stop at the border.
Posted Jan 14, 2011

Chinese Dealers Start Hoarding Tobacco
Last month, the Chinese government announced plans to increase the tobacco tax this year.
Posted Jan 12, 2011

Record Revenue at Taiwan Convenience Stores
7-Eleven stores experienced a 12.7 percent jump in sales and Taiwan FamilyMart had a 9.6 percent increase last year.
Posted Jan 12, 2011

U.K. Retailers Beef Up Security as Gas Prices Increase
A recent fuel tax increase in Britain has brought an increase in drive-offs and fill-ups by those claiming to have forgotten their money.
Posted Jan 11, 2011

A Smokeless U.K. by 2050?
Smoking could "virtually disappear" in England by 2050, according to research by Citigroup.
Posted Jan 11, 2011

Italy Enacts Plastic Bag Ban
The country becomes the first in Europe with a nationwide prohibition against plastic bags.
Posted Jan 10, 2011

Global Food Prices Reach Record High
Price spike triggers fears of repeating the 2007-08 crisis, when food riots erupted in Haiti and Bangladesh.
Posted Jan 6, 2011

U.K. Reveals Healthy Eating Promotion
The government will give citizens vouchers for discounts on healthy foods to combat obesity.
Posted Jan 5, 2011

Ottawa to Increase Cigarette Pack Warning Labels
Anti-smoking message will cover 3/4 of cigarette packages, feature iconic cancer victim.
Posted Jan 4, 2011

U.K. Fuel Protests Looming
Farmers, taxi drivers, jobbers and consumers lobby against fuel tax increase.
Posted Jan 4, 2011

U.K. Beer Sales See Big Drop
Beer sales dropped 9.7 percent in the third quarter, hit by wet weather and the end of soccer's World Cup.
Posted Oct 28, 2010

Chavez Calls Citgo 'Bad Business'
Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez stops short of saying the company is for sale.
Posted Oct 27, 2010

Thousands of Retailers Say No to Tobacco Display Ban
The Association of Convenience Stores has organized an aggressive postcard campaign voicing opposition to an imminent tobacco display ban.
Posted Oct 26, 2010

An Early Christmas?
In a bid to get a strong start on what is expected to be a fierce battle among U.K. supermarkets, Tesco launches its Christmas campaign three weeks early.
Posted Oct 26, 2010

Energy Drinks Likely to Go Off Tap Down Under
Australia's government is expected to ban pubs from selling energy drinks on tap.
Posted Oct 26, 2010

Spain to Ban Smoking in Cafes, Bars
A bill okayed by parliamentary commission will bring the country more in line with other Western European nations.
Posted Oct 25, 2010

C-Stores Demand Freeze on New Regulation and Taxation on Legal Tobacco
Canadian Convenience Stores Association applauds Federal and Québec government shift in tobacco strategy to focus ?on contraband but warns new taxation, regulation will foil efforts.
Posted Oct 22, 2010

French Government Vows to Keep Gasoline Flowing
Sarkozy deploys police to dismantle blockades, as more than one million protesters have marched in over 250 demonstrations across France.
Posted Oct 21, 2010

Gasoline Pumps Run Dry in France
The French government has begun using emergency fuel reserves as the strikes continue.
Posted Oct 20, 2010

McNuptials: Hong Kong McDonald's to Offer Wedding Ceremonies
Hong Kong McDonald's outlet to offer wedding packages that start at $4 a plate.
Posted Oct 19, 2010

Taiwan 7-Eleven Competes With Travel Agencies
Taiwan travel agencies protest sale of air tickets at convenience stores.
Posted Oct 19, 2010

U.K. Considers Capping Interest Rates on Credit, Store Cards
British lawmakers are considering ways to address "unfair bank charges," an effort to produce "fairer" consumer practices.
Posted Oct 19, 2010

Promotions Make Up Record 37% of U.K. Grocery Sales
U.K. supermarkets are getting an early jump on sales promotions of Christmas-related food and beverages, an effort to drive store traffic.
Posted Oct 14, 2010

European Commission Prepares EU Smoking Ban Legislation
The commission will introduce a measure to prohibit smoking in public places next year.
Posted Oct 13, 2010

First Nations Start Challenge of Provincial Tobacco Tax Restriction
Canada's First Nations people allege treaty breach in Saskatchewan's passage of a law that limits their tax-exempt cigarette purchases.
Posted Oct 12, 2010

Seoul Looks to Curb Super-supermarkets
South Korean lawmakers are working on legislation that would restrict large, urban supermarkets, a blow to retailers like Tesco.
Posted Oct 12, 2010

British Shopkeepers Fearful Over Cigarette Display Ban
Independent retailers believe the cost of converting fixtures to hide cigarettes will be cost-prohibitive, sending business to larger stores.
Posted Oct 8, 2010

OCSA Supports Ban on Youth Tobacco Purchasing and Possession
OCSA: "Common sense legislation" places similar youth restrictions on tobacco as it has for alcohol.
Posted Oct 7, 2010

Tesco Plans to Double U.S. Expansion Rate of Fresh & Easy Stores
The company announced plans for roughly 400 stores in California within two years and predicted its U.S. stores would turn a profit by 2013.
Posted Oct 7, 2010

Russia to Launch Anti-Smoking Policies
The government will ban tobacco ads and smoking in public by 2015.
Posted Oct 6, 2010

U.K.'s First Drive-Thru Supermarket
Tesco now offers drive-up convenience for a small fee — perfect for those who want a designated time for grocery pickups.
Posted Oct 5, 2010

Holy Smokes! Japan Raises Cigarette Tax by 40%
Smoke-friendly Japan implements giant excise tax hike, in a country where nearly one-third of all males smoke.
Posted Oct 5, 2010

Northern Ireland to Ban Tobacco Displays
Retailers think the move will send more smokers to buy their tobacco underground.
Posted Oct 4, 2010

Group Calls on Ottawa to Take Tougher Anti-Smoking Measures
Canada's smoking decline has slowed, and the Canadian Cancer Society is calling on Ottawa to take tougher steps to discourage smoking.
Posted Sep 30, 2010

September Unexpectedly Strong for U.K. Retailers
Survey points to rising consumer confidence with strong demand for goods from wholesalers.
Posted Sep 30, 2010

Two Slurpees, a Dozen Donuts and a Plane Ticket to Taipei
Taiwan 7-Eleven stores are now selling domestic flight tickets.
Posted Sep 28, 2010

National Post Takes Readers Inside Canada's Cigarette Black Market
The newspaper has written a five-part series detailing Canada's secret underground tobacco industry.
Posted Sep 24, 2010

Tesco's American Vision
A former executive reveals Sir Terry Leahy's original ideas for Tesco's U.S. entry included a 10,000-unit convenience store chain.
Posted Sep 21, 2010

U.K. Bottle Deposit Plan "Too Costly"
The Association of Convenience Stores thinks a refundable deposit on bottled drinks also would cause too much trouble for retailers.
Posted Sep 20, 2010

Lawson Will Open 130 Convenience Stores in China in 2011
The Japanese chain will shell out $50 million to increase its Chinese store count.
Posted Sep 16, 2010

Tesco Plans Convenience Store Chain Overseas
The U.K. retailer will make a push to open stores on the franchise model.
Posted Sep 15, 2010

U.K. Grocer Expands to Smaller Format
Morrisons will join the ranks of Tesco and Sainsbury to offer customers a smaller, convenience store format with a focus on fresh foods.
Posted Sep 10, 2010

Canada Looks at Biofuel Blend Rules
Soon, Canadian fuel producers and distributors will need to mix renewable fuels into products to meet a 5 percent quota.
Posted Sep 8, 2010

Cigarette Demand Soars in Japan
With the country set to raise tobacco taxes starting October 1, many smokers are stocking up and retailers are cashing in.
Posted Sep 8, 2010

Brits Dry Out
Alcohol consumption in Britain records its steepest year-over-year drop since 1948.
Posted Sep 7, 2010

French QSR Chain Catering to Muslim Diet Set to Expand
Quick chain to boost the number of its French halal-only locations to 22 after a successful trial run.
Posted Sep 7, 2010

Wasn't This a Cheers Episode?
Coca-Cola's new ingredient is kale (in Japan).
Posted Sep 7, 2010

A Tale of Two Cities
More than ever, U.S. consumers are split into two spending camps: the haves and have-nots.
Posted Sep 1, 2010

Study Highlights Canadian-U.S. Shopper Distinctions
New study points out sharp distinctions between U.S. and Canadian shoppers.
Posted Aug 26, 2010

Chinese Consumers Reluctant to Spend
Western companies have been counting on China to deliver solid economic growth numbers, but the country's consumers are big savers, with two-thirds of city residents holding on to at least one-quarter of their income.
Posted Aug 26, 2010

Waitrose Considers Convenience Store Sub-Brand
Waitrose is considering creating a dedicated branding for its convenience stores as it gears up for expansion.
Posted Aug 24, 2010

Shell Takes Argentina to Court Over Fuel Price Ban
The refiner of nearly 15 percent of Argentina's fuel is suing the government over a ban that prevents fuel producers from increasing prices in the country.
Posted Aug 24, 2010

Tesco Unveils Drive-Thru Concept
Customers shop online and then pickup their groceries during a scheduled two-hour window.
Posted Aug 24, 2010

Japanese Convenience Store Sales Grow for First Time in 14 Months
Stronger yen yields price cuts for imports, a boon for consumers and Japan's retailers.
Posted Aug 23, 2010

China's Addiction to Smoking
WHO said the country's smoking epidemic is "as serious as SARS." Meanwhile, Egypt launches an ambitious campaign to curb smoking through higher tobacco taxes and an indoor smoking ban.
Posted Aug 18, 2010

Ontario Convenience Stores Association Appeals to Ontario's Premier for Lottery Support
The Ontario government is seeking to offer all forms of gaming online, a move that OCSA maintains will have a significant and detrimental impact on convenience store traffic.
Posted Aug 17, 2010

Japanese Smoking Rate Drops for 15th Year in a Row
The adult smoking rate fell to just below 24 percent.
Posted Aug 16, 2010

Quiznos Charts Course for Global Growth
Sandwich QSR seeks franchisees with local infrastructure, business expertise.
Posted Aug 12, 2010

Eastern Progress: Wendy's/Arby's to Open 180 QSRs in Russia
Russia's meat-eating culture offers strong sales potential, a Wendy's executive said.
Posted Aug 12, 2010

Moisturizing While Driving
Nissan considers adding vitamin C to the air conditioning feature of some models to give drivers softer skin.
Posted Aug 9, 2010

South Korean Retailers Use New Services to Reel in Customers
Convenience stores there have expanded their services to include things like sending and receiving packages.
Posted Aug 4, 2010

Philip Morris Raises Prices Overseas
The price increases have helped Philip Morris make up for falling shipments in struggling economic regions of the European Union.
Posted Jul 23, 2010

Calgary Shell Stations Face Gasoline Shortage
Some stations are looking into importing product from outside the province.
Posted Jul 22, 2010

WTO To Rule on U.S. Clove Cigarette Ban Sources
Indonesia alleges U.S. clove cigarette ban is unfair, while the U.S. says that it applies uniformly to clove cigarettes from all countries.
Posted Jul 22, 2010

We're #2: China Passes U.S. as World's Biggest Energy Consumer
For the first time in more than a century, the U.S. is not the world's largest energy consumer.
Posted Jul 20, 2010

Waitrose Plans Six-fold Increase In Food Stores
Supermarket chain Waitrose is preparing for a six-fold increase in the number of its locations.
Posted Jul 20, 2010

Some Canadian Stores Prohibit Minors From Buying Energy Drinks
Prince Edward Island has outlawed the sale of energy drinks in schools and some area businesses are following suit by not allowing minors to purchase the beverages.
Posted Jul 19, 2010

China Promises Upgraded Food Safety
Government tries to reassure uneasy citizens in the wake of the seizure of more than 60 tons of contaminated milk powder.
Posted Jul 15, 2010

British Doctors Seek 'Fat Tax' On Junk Food
U.K. government's decision to abolish Food Standards Agency angers doctors.
Posted Jul 13, 2010

Advertisers to Pay for U.K. Anti-Obesity Marketing
The government is asking marketers to assume the task of educating the public about eating healthy.
Posted Jul 12, 2010

European Producers Focus on Ethanol Instead of Biodiesel
Making ethanol is more profitable than biodiesel production.
Posted Jul 9, 2010

Mail Order Meat
Watch out, Tesco: Amazon.co.uk launches online Grocery Store, offering 22,000 food and beverage items that ship free to UK residents.
Posted Jul 8, 2010

Oy Vey! Israel Raises Its Cigarette Tax
Israel's treasury calculates that its new cigarette tax hike should increase its revenues by NIS 700 million ($175 million U.S.) a year.
Posted Jul 8, 2010

Canadian Convenience Store Association Alleges Irresponsible Sale of Tobacco Occurs on Native Reservations
The association released findings that show Canadians the effect of Bill C-32, which went into effect on Monday.
Posted Jul 7, 2010

Egypt Adds New Tax on Tobacco
The taxes increased cigarette prices by as much as 40 percent and the cost for water pipe tobacco doubled.
Posted Jul 6, 2010

Prague's Smoking Spots: Sign of the Times?
Beginning today, restaurants and bars in Prague will be required to post signs on the outside of their storefronts indicating whether they allow smoking, prohibit it or provide a nonsmoking section.
Posted Jul 1, 2010

Coffee War Brewing in China
Beijing-controlled firm takes aim for java supremacy across China.
Posted Jul 1, 2010

Imperial Tobacco Launches Legal Bid Against Ban On Open Sale In Scotland
Follows similar suit in April in England and Wales.
Posted Jul 1, 2010

Russian Cigarette Packs Now Carry Health Warnings
"Smoking kills" among twelve cautionary statements to be included on cigarette packs sold in Russia.
Posted Jun 29, 2010

Small Stores Will Suffer Most Under U.K. VAT Increase
The United Kingdom recently moved to advance the VAT to 20 percent.
Posted Jun 28, 2010

Ontario Considers Privatizing Lottery, Liquor
Proceeds would go toward plugging the province's $20 billion deficit.
Posted Jun 24, 2010

Tesco Takes Over Fresh & Easy Suppliers
U.S. expansion is still far short of expectations, and the chain of neighborhood stores has yet to turn a profit.
Posted Jun 24, 2010

U.K. Hikes VAT Rate 2.5 Percent
The first permanent increase to the tax on goods and services will take effect January 2011.
Posted Jun 23, 2010

U.K. Agency Calls for Salt Reduction
The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence wants to lower the amount of sodium in food.
Posted Jun 23, 2010

Lawson Focuses on Fresh Food
The Japanese convenience store chain soon will add in-store, made-to-order food.
Posted Jun 21, 2010

Waitrose Fitzroy Street Opens for Business
Retailer's first smaller format convenience shop opens in Cambridge.
Posted Jun 18, 2010

Small Shops Could Close if U.K. Display Ban Proceeds: Report
Small shops will close if tobacco display ban goes ahead, says the Democracy Institute.
Posted Jun 17, 2010

Tobacco-Free Bhutan?
Himalayan kingdom seeks to ban the sale or use of tobacco anywhere in the country, with violators receiving prison sentences of up to five years.
Posted Jun 14, 2010

U.K. Convenience Stores Ask for Reversal on Tobacco Display Ban
The Association of Convenience Stores in the U.K. points to evidence showing such bans do not decrease smoking.
Posted Jun 11, 2010

Woolworths Goes Up Against Visa
Australia's biggest retailer is battling Visa over swipe fees.
Posted Jun 9, 2010

Three American Chains Prepare for British Invasion
Chipotle Mexican Grill, Ruby Tuesday and Taco Bell are expanding into the United Kingdom.
Posted Jun 9, 2010

Nova Scotia Stores Burned By Illegal Smokes
More than 12 percent of Nova Scotia convenience stores went out of business last year, with illegal tobacco sales a leading cause of their demise.
Posted Jun 7, 2010

Ontario Pursuing Menu-Labeling Legislation
Ontario is pursuing menu-labeling legislation that would affect restaurants with five or more units and gross annual sales of $5 million (CDN).
Posted Jun 7, 2010

Small Business Say Australian Tobacco Tax Hike Hurts Business
While cigarette sales are not falling off, sales of other goods at grocery stores and gasoline stations are declining.
Posted Jun 2, 2010

Asda Buys Netto for £778 Million
The purchase has the Association of Convenience Stores concerned that any more consolidation among big players would spell bad news for consumers.
Posted Jun 1, 2010

7-Eleven Australia Buys Mobil Filling Stations
The acquisition will boost the number of 7-Eleven stores from 400 to more than 650, making it the largest independent fuel retailer in Australia.
Posted May 28, 2010

Canadian Tobacco Case Heads to Supreme Court
Tobacco companies contend that the federal government should be liable for smoking-related health costs.
Posted May 24, 2010

'Local Feel' Helps U.K. Rural Convenience Stores Trade Better
A new report finds that convenience stores that tailor their offerings to their location will find success.
Posted May 24, 2010

Health Canada Okays Alcohol Energy Drinks
Drinks are required to use naturally sourced caffeine; issue is still under review in the U.S. by the FDA.
Posted May 20, 2010

OCSA: Increasing Ontario Tobacco Taxes Will Boost Contraband Sales
HST will make cheap, untaxed illegal tobacco even cheaper, the Ontario Convenience Stores Associations maintains.
Posted May 18, 2010

Toronto Seeks Ban Soda, Energy Drinks at City-Run Facilities
The city plans to go 100% juice and milk by 2014.
Posted May 18, 2010

Sainsbury to Double Convenience Store Openings
The supermarket plans to open 100 small shops during this fiscal year.
Posted May 17, 2010

U.K. Convenience Stores Report Increase in Violent Attacks
Robberies have increased 30 percent from last year.
Posted May 7, 2010

QSRs Consider Overseas Expansion
More fast-food chains are looking to other countries for growth opportunities.
Posted May 3, 2010

Canadian Government Issues Revised Credit, Debit Card Industry Code of Conduct
The Canadian Convenience Stores Association still has concerns about the way the credit card companies operate.
Posted May 3, 2010

Australia Increases Cigarette Taxes
Small retailers also are mad that the government will force tobacco companies to package products in plain wrappings.
Posted May 3, 2010

Canadian Convenience Stores Association Addresses Parliament With Contraband Tobacco Concerns
Contraband tobacco sales account for nearly one-third of all tobacco sales in Canada — a 98% increase since 2006.
Posted Apr 29, 2010

European Interchange Fees: A Done Deal?
Retail Week urges cautious optimism to Visa's agreement to reduce interchange fees on debit card transactions, citing Visa's "market test" characterization and the company's failure to address fees on credit cards.
Posted Apr 29, 2010

Canada's Credit Card Industry Profits Plunge
Some begin to exit Canada's credit card business, while others look toward new systems, such as mobile phone payments.
Posted Apr 27, 2010

Tobacco Groups Seek To Challenge U.K. Display Ban
Imperial, JTI and BAT argue that the display ban regulations, set to take effect next October, do not discourage smoking and that they harm small businesses.
Posted Apr 27, 2010

Canada to Review Gas Pump Tampering
Whether malicious or unintentional, bill seeks to penalize gasoline retailers for faulty measuring devices.
Posted Apr 22, 2010

PCI Compliance: Are U.K. Businesses Ready?
Not really. They lag behind their U.S. colleagues in meeting PCI security standards, with only 11 percent certified as compliant.
Posted Apr 22, 2010

U.K. Tobacco Groups, Retailers Receive $346 Million Fine
An U.K. antitrust regulator said the fine resulted from coordinating cigarette prices from 2001 to 2003.
Posted Apr 19, 2010

Canadian Convenience Stores Being Squeezed
The Atlantic Convenience Store Association points to contraband tobacco, swipe fees and higher labor costs as hurting stores' bottom lines.
Posted Apr 19, 2010

Report: Majority of U.K. Shoppers Frequent Convenience Stores Weekly
The survey also found that convenience stores should offer "strong promotional" appeals to grab shoppers.
Posted Apr 14, 2010

Jamaica Gasoline Retailers Planning Major Staff Cuts
Higher gasoline taxes and a falloff in sales prompt Jamaica's gas station owners to consider converting to self-service at a cost of 3,000 jobs.
Posted Apr 13, 2010

North Wales Tax Increase Threatens Independent Stations
Revised tax valuation scheme based on turnover rather than square footage or profit, and the change is threatening the survival of many of the region's stations.
Posted Apr 8, 2010

Study: Canadian Convenience Stores Hurt by Contraband Cigarettes, Credit Card Fees
A new study reports that illegal tobacco sales and credit card fees gobbled up billions from convenience stores.
Posted Apr 7, 2010

Canadian Government Moves Closer To Regulating Payments Market
Legislation is a step forward to creating a robust regulatory framework that protects merchants and consumers in Canada's debit and credit card market.
Posted Apr 6, 2010

Supermarkets Fight for Customers
Deep discounts and promotions are all the rage over the pond.
Posted Apr 6, 2010

Ottawa Follows U.S. Lead on Fuel-Efficiency Standards
Canada's Environment Minister sets target of 25-per-cent improvement by 2016.
Posted Apr 6, 2010

Lawson Store Gets Fresh With Foodservice
Japanese convenience store will grow its own vegetables for its fresh foodservice.
Posted Apr 2, 2010

Saskatchewan Increases Tobacco and Alcohol Taxes
Pending legislation also seeks to restrict the amount of cigarettes that First Nations individuals can purchase tax-free, a move praised by the Canadian Taxpayers Federation as "leveling the playing field" for retailers.
Posted Apr 1, 2010

Coca-Cola Smashes £1 Billion Retail Sales Barrier in Great Britain
That's $1.5086 billion U.S. — hardly a round number, but still a record!
Posted Apr 1, 2010

Shale Gas: Worries Surface Over Impact of Extraction
Capitol Hill has begun scrutinizing the impact of shale gas out of concerns for the environment and human health caused during the drilling process.
Posted Mar 30, 2010

BAT Predicts Global Cigarette Consumption to Remain Stable
BAT report reveals that pricing has remained positive and it predicts global profits to increase.
Posted Mar 30, 2010

Caffeine Gets Okay In Canada's Non-Cola Drinks
Beverage makers will be permitted to add caffeine in concentrations not to exceed 150 parts per million, compared to 200 parts per million allowed in colas.
Posted Mar 25, 2010

Promotions for Cheaper Nova Scotia Gas Allowed to Continue
Over objections from rural fuel marketers, Nova Scotia's Utility and Review Board permits a discount gasoline promotion between Sobeys and Irving Oil to continue.
Posted Mar 25, 2010

European Big Food Groups Win Labeling Fight
"Traffic light system" of food labeling fails to gain approval of European parliament.
Posted Mar 22, 2010

Eco-friendly Cars Could Spell Doom for Japanese Fuel Retailers
A rise in the number of environmentally friendly vehicles might force as many as two-thirds of the country's gasoline stations to close within the next 10 years.
Posted Mar 17, 2010

Ontario Convenience Stores Association Launches Petition Drive
The group is urging the Ontario government to stop implementation of a cigarette tax increase scheduled for July 1.
Posted Mar 15, 2010

Topaz Cracks Top 10 in Ireland's Best Workplaces List
The company makes the list for the third consecutive year.
Posted Mar 15, 2010

A Caffeinated Car?
BBC Science team builds an experimental car that runs on coffee.
Posted Mar 12, 2010

BP, Brazil Signoff On $7 Billion Offshore Deal
The deal gives BP a greater footprint in the Gulf of Mexico and the Caspian Sea.
Posted Mar 12, 2010

Russian Bill Bans Oil Companies From Gaining Gas Station Monopolies
The Federal Anti-Monopoly Service would like to prohibit oil companies from purchasing or building fueling stations in areas where they currently own at least 35 percent of the market.
Posted Mar 10, 2010

Ottawa Puts Credit Card Industry on Notice
Ottawa lawmakers propose a bill that would give its federal finance minister the authority to regulate Canada's credit and debit card industry; skeptics say enforcement will be key in assessing effectiveness.
Posted Mar 9, 2010

Retailers Urged Not To Discount Temporary Recruitment
Recruiting too many permanent staff too quickly while the economy is still in flux could lead to "financial danger," British staffing agency warns.
Posted Mar 9, 2010

Coke: Markets in India, China Recovering Quickly
Company CEO said that economies in the emerging world are getting healthier faster.
Posted Mar 8, 2010

Japan Embraces Quirky Products
Soy-sauce-flavored Kit Kats join McDonald's Filet-O-Shrimp and Pepsi's cucumber-flavored soda as a few of the more popular items.
Posted Mar 8, 2010

N.B. Gas Retailers Appeal For Relief
With gasoline mark-ups capped at 5 cents per liter, the Atlantic Convenience Store Association appeals for relief, maintaining that profit margins are squeezing retailers.
Posted Mar 5, 2010

Court Rules Price Fixing Violates EU Regulations
Three EU countries have a minimum price for cigarettes, which the court found undermines competition.
Posted Mar 5, 2010

Israel's Sonol Moving Beyond the Gas Station
The convenience store industry is relatively new in Israel, and gasoline retailer Sonol is expanding rapidly.
Posted Mar 4, 2010

Korea's Stable of Self-Service Gas Stations Expanding Rapidly
Rising fuel prices spur self-service gas station growth in a country that's dominated by full-service stations.
Posted Mar 4, 2010

Ontario Convenience Stores Lose Sales to Contraband Cigarettes
The province has not taken effective steps to curb the sale of illegal tobacco products.
Posted Mar 1, 2010