Convenience stores are very popular and the foot traffic in them is mostly high due to the strategic positioning. They are near residential areas, in gas stations, in the corner, etc. they are practically the nearest stores to consumer public.

Convenience stores are those retail outlets you can conveniently get to from where you are or live. They are strategically located for easy accessibility. When you run out of milk or you need that duct tape, you would first think of a convenience store. It is just that outlet that makes shopping something convenient to do. Convenience stores can be very convenient for automobile owners as many gas stations feature convenience stores. They can get what is needed while buying gas and continue on their journey.

Sourcing can be an issue for convenience stores due to their sizes. Big retailers have the size and capacity to draw several kinds of distributors near. However, retailers in smaller outlets have to get lists of suppliers who will be available to supply at the quantity and price they are looking for.

However, an average convenience store stocks an average of 2500 – 3000 products of about 400 categories. This is averagely quite a number of products to market and sell. Though compared to what big retailers and supercenters stock, the number is quite little. However, there are common categories of products in convenience stores. They will be discussed below.

Eggs and Dairy Products

These products are common features in most refrigerators. Many parents make their children take milk every morning. These products are sold in different sizes and measurements at retail stores. Since dairy products are produced and packaged by manufacturers, they are soured from distributors. However, eggs may be gotten straight from the farm.

Over-the-Counter Medications

These are the little medications that can be bought over the counter to cure a little problem. For instance, aspirin is a very popular over-the –counter medication. During winter, people develop flu and they rush to stores to get something to help them deal with the ailment.

Dry and Canned Foods

Dry foods are shelf-stable products – they last long. A distributor may sell these in different products or basically from the same manufacturer. It can be very unmistakable to find these products on the shelves of most stores.

Meat and Produce

These are groceries which are mostly from the farm. They usually have their own section where they are placed and marketed to consumers. Cold storage may be needed for these products because of their short lifespan.

Drinks and Alcohol

Beverages are widely consumed. They are one of the fastest selling items in retail. A bottle of water, a can of soda, a plastic of Coca-Cola, a bottle of beer, and many others are picked easily by passers-by who need something to quench the thirst.

Sweet and Snacks

These are also fast moving products. They are items that attract impulse buying and are tempting. Things are best stocked at the point of service where it can be seen at checkout.