Casey’s General Stores Inc. is making waves in the convenience store industry with its first-ever Casey’s Innovation Summit. This competitive event aims to discover new and innovative brands with exciting products to distribute across the retailer’s vast network of more than 2,600 stores in 17 states. The company is on the lookout for food and beverage brands that can bring something fresh and unique to its merchandising mix, providing customers with a diverse range of options to enjoy.
Chris Stewart, the vice president of merchandising at Casey’s, expressed the company’s commitment to offering customers a variety of new, differentiated, and exclusive products. By hosting the Innovation Summit, Casey’s is giving brands the chance to showcase why their products should be featured in stores and reach the retailer’s loyal customer base. This initiative reflects Casey’s dedication to providing customers with an unexpected convenience experience that goes beyond the typical offerings found in a convenience store.
From now until August 19, food and beverage companies are invited to apply online at www.rangeme.com/caseysinnovation for the opportunity to be considered for inclusion in the Innovation Summit. Selected brands will have the chance to engage with Casey’s merchants, showcase their products, and potentially secure a spot in stores. The application process is being managed through RangeMe, a platform that connects suppliers with retailers to facilitate product innovation and sales growth.
Wayne Bennet, the senior vice president of retail at ECRM/RangeMe, emphasized the importance of collaboration between suppliers and retailers in driving sales and delivering relevant products to customers. The Innovation Summit serves as a platform for fostering these connections and bringing new and exciting products to Casey’s customers.
Casey’s General Stores is a major player in the convenience store industry, operating over 2,650 stores in the Midwest under the Casey’s and goodstop brands, as well as in Texas under the Lone Star brand. The company ranks as the third-largest convenience store retailer, the fourth-largest holder of liquor licenses, and the fifth-largest pizza chain in the United States. In a recent strategic move, Casey’s announced its acquisition of Fikes Wholesale Inc., owner of 198 CEFCO Convenience Stores, solidifying its position in the market.
As Casey’s continues to innovate and expand its offerings, the Innovation Summit represents an exciting opportunity for brands to partner with a leading convenience store retailer and reach a wide audience of customers. By fostering creativity and collaboration, Casey’s is paving the way for new and exciting products to enhance the convenience store experience for its customers.