convenience retailer nacs pre-show issue

ConvenienceRETAILERTHE NACS SHOW 09 ISSUEVolume 2, Number 5 September/October 2009

M&M’S®, MILKY WAY® and 3 MUSKETEERS® launch new flavors

Soon Americans can choose from a widerassortment of delicious real chocolatetreats. In January, Mars Snackfood isexpanding its line-up to include fourdelightful twists on consumers’ favoritechocolate brands of M&M’S, MILKYWAY and 3 MUSKETEERS.

The expanded array includes twonew flavors and as well as two consumerfavorites formerly offered in limited edition yet were so popular that the company decided to roll them out foryear-round enjoyment.

The new MUSKETEERS TruffleCrisp Bars offer a unique twist on thebrand consumers love. They’re a delicatetreat featuring a whipped up chocolatetruffle on a crisp layer—with only 170calories! Additional light alternatives forC-store consumers translate into additionalsales opportunities, since more women are

INVIGORATE CHOCOLATE SALESWITH NEW ITEMS FROM MARS SNACKFOODFavorite Brands with a

New Twist

Continued on Page 27

Are you concernedabout your kid’shealth? Well, here arethe new medicalupdates and whyyou should be.

The latest sta-tistics show one outof three kids now fall into the catego-ry of obese, two out of three kids areobese or overweight and the numberscontinue to skyrocket. It’s scary that oneof every three Caucasian kids developdiabetes as adults, and one of twoHispanic and African-American kidswill, but now other major health prob-lems in our youth appear to be escalatingat an alarming rate such as heart disease,high blood pressure and key organ ail-ments. There’s reason to believe that thisunhealthy trend is about to change.

Here’s one kids candy companythat’s taking the lead nationally in mak-ing healthy candy for kids. InnovativeCandy Concepts in Atlanta, Ga., hasmade their leading kids brand Too TartsSmart Choice completely sugar free,

INNOVATIVE TOOTARTS SMART CHOICEIS SUGAR FREE


Impact Confections WARHEADS Sour Chewy Cubes

Nestlé Raisinets

SandenVendo Mini Hot Food Display

VPX Sports Redline Power Rush

new products

4 ConvenienceRETAILER September/October 2009

Lee M. OserCEO and Editor-in-Chief

Steve CoxKim ForresterKate Seymour

Associate Publishers

Lorrie BaumannBusiness Affairs Manager

JoEllen Lowry Senior Associate Editor

Chris BonneyAssociate Editor

Valerie WilsonArt Director

Yasmine BrownGraphic Designer

Michael HarrisNational Director of Sales

Enrico CecchiEuropean Sales

Convenience Retailer is published byOser Communications Group ©2009.

All rights reserved. BPA Worldwide Membership Applied for September 2008.

Executive and editorial offices at: 1877 N. Kolb Road, Tucson, AZ 85715

520-721-1300/Fax: 520-721-6300www.oser.com/www.convenienceretailer.net

European offices located at Lungarno Benvenuto

Cellini, 11, 50125 Florence, Italy.

ConvenienceRETAILER

news briefs

NACS schedule

top news

new products

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OSCAR MAYER LUNCHABLESLUNCH COMBINATIONS:SIX NEW VARIETIES

Recipes include wholesome optionslike lean meats, spring water and applesauce

Back-to-school time is just around thecorner. While a new school year giveskids a fresh start, it can be a challengingtime for parents who struggle to pack a

lunch that’s wholesome and somethingtheir kids will eat.

This year, parents have a little extrahelp. The Lunchables team is introducinga new line of Oscar Mayer LunchablesLunch Combinations, which includesspring water and a number of firsts forthe brand, including sub sandwiches and

applesauce. The product line also offersthe following enhancements:• Turkey made with 100 percent turkeybreast: a good source of protein.• Bread made with whole grain.• Kraft 2% cheddar: an excellent sourceof calcium.• Dessert including Chewy Chips Ahoy!Cookies and Mini Nilla Wafers.

“Moms told us what they wanted and welistened,” says Darin Dugan, SeniorDirector of Marketing, Lunchables. “Sowe’ve added items like spring water, apple-sauce and bread made with whole grain.”

The new Lunchables LunchCombinations line is made up of six vari-eties including: Turkey + Cheddar SubSandwich, Ham + American Sub Sandwich,Turkey + Cheddar Cracker Combos, Ham +American Cracker Combos, Deep DishCheese Pizza and Deep Dish PepperoniPizza. The Turkey + Cheddar SubSandwich and Deep Dish Cheese Pizzameet the Kraft Foods Sensible Solution cri-teria for nutritional value.

A Makeover from the Inside Out

Changes to the new Lunchables LunchCombinations aren’t just on the inside. Thenew line will be launched in an all new,clear, snap-close package that uses recy-clable sleeves, bottom trays and water bot-tles. This is the first appreciable change tothe packaging in the brand’s 21 years.

“Our product packaging really tops offthe introduction of this new line,” saysDugan. “We’ve made it easier than ever forMom to see exactly what's inside.”

Feeding Your Kid’s Success

Registered Dietitian Bridget Swinney,who’s also a mother of two, is passionateabout teaching parents how to makechoices that will help their kids reachtheir full potential. She understands thathealthy habits like eating well—includ-ing a wholesome lunch—and exerciseare the cornerstones to building a healthybody; these habits affect emotional andintellectual growth as well.

“Understanding the importance ofgood nutrition is vital to our childrens’growth. It's imperative that we instill goodhabits from an early age,” says Swinney. “Iappreciate that there are options like newLunchables Lunch Combinations that helpmoms provide their kids with foods that willfuel their success.”

Lunchables Lunch Combinations areavailable in the refrigerated section of gro-cery stores and retail for $3.49. To view thecomplete line of Lunchables LunchCombinations, visit www.lunchables.com.

About Kraft Foods Inc.

Kraft Foods Inc. (Kraft) is engaged inmanufacturing and marketing packagedfood products, including snacks, bever-ages, cheese, convenient meals and vari-ous packaged grocery products. Duringthe year ended Dec. 31, 2008, the com-pany has operations in more than 70countries and sell the products in approx-imately 150 countries. The Companymanages and operates, through two com-mercial units: Kraft North America andKraft International. Kraft North Americaoperates in the United States and Canada.On Aug 4, 2008, the company completedthe spin-off of its post cereals business.The brands of the Company span fiveconsumer sectors: snacks, beverages,cheese, grocery and convenient meals.

Kraft Foods makes today deliciousin 150 countries around the globe.

For more information, visitwww.kraftfoodscompany.com.

news briefs


news briefs

Tea giant teams up with bottled waterleader in new venture

AriZona Beverages, the leader in premi-um ready-to-drink tea beverages in theU.S. has partnered with Nestlé WatersNorth America Inc., the U.S. leader inbottled water, to create AriZona TeaWaters. This new line of low calorie, tea-infused waters is certified organic by theU.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)and combines the antioxidant benefits ofgreen tea with the hydration of natural

spring water.AriZona Tea Waters start with

Poland Spring® Brand Natural SpringWater from spring sources in Maine,which is then combined with organicgreen tea, organic cane juice and fruitextracts. The result is a healthful, refresh-ing beverage with just 20 calories pereight-ounce serving. In addition toAriZona’s classic Green Tea, the new lineincludes Yumberry Green Tea, MandarinOrange Green Tea and PomegranateGreen tea.

AriZona Tea Waters is the first jointproject of Arizona Beverages and NestléWaters. About the partnership, DonVultaggio, Chairman of AriZonaBeverages states, “We are not only excitedabout this breakthrough new organic prod-uct, but we are ecstatic to be partneringwith the leading bottler of natural springwater, Nestlé Waters North America.”

“For generations, Poland Spring hasoffered people healthful hydration. Forthose who sometimes want their waterwith a twist of flavor, AriZona TeaWaters delivers a delicious variation. It’sa natural fit, and we’re delighted thatPoland Spring is a key ingredient in thisunique organic tea-infused water,” saysTim Brown, Executive Vice President,Retail Operations for Nestlé Waters,which produces Poland Spring.

The AriZona Tea Waters are current-ly available in select Northeast markets.As the product rolls out to additionalmarkets throughout 2009, it will useother Nestlé Waters’ regionally sourcedwaters such as Ozarka® Brand Natural

ARNOLD AND OROWHEAT BRINGTHE BEST TO THE WEST WITHTHE LAUNCH OF SANDWICH THINS

Bakers share the skinny on endless eating possibilities

The bakers of Oroweat® and Arnold®

Breads announce the expansion ofSandwich Thins, the first unique sand-wich-sized sliced flatbread rolls intro-duced, to the Western United States.

Currently available in the East underthe Arnold brand name, and now avail-able in the West under the Oroweatbrand name, Sandwich Thins are thin-ner than a roll, healthier than mostsliced bread, more practical than a pitaand are reshaping the bakery aisle.

“We first introduced Sandwich Thins

in the East in August 2008, and theybecame popular overnight! People wereso excited about Sandwich Thins, weimmediately began receiving an influx ofcalls asking exactly where they wereavailable,” says Liza Leszczuk, BrandManager. “We listened to our consumersand are eager to share Sandwich Thinswith the Western U.S. now too.”

Two varieties will be rolling out inthe Western markets: 100 percent WholeWheat and Multi-Grain. Both are only100 calories and are an excellent sourceof fiber, with the 100 percent whole wheatoffering 19 grams of whole grains per

serving and the Multi-Grain contributing11 grams per serving. In addition to theone-of-a-kind shape and texture, eachvariety of the Sandwich Thins contains nohigh fructose corn syrup. Sandwich Thinsis a great-tasting choice for consumerslooking to control their portions, yet stillenjoy the foods they love.

In the East under the Arnold brandname, Whole Grain White and SeedlessRye varieties are also available, in additionto 100 percent Whole Wheat and Multi-Grain. For consumers who prefer traditional


ARIZONA BEVERAGES & NESTLÉWATERS RELEASE LINE OFORGANIC TEA-INFUSED WATERS


news briefs

HIBALL INTRODUCES LINEOF SPARKLING ENERGY JUICE

Hiball Energy, the pioneer of clearsparkling energy water, launched its newline of lightly sweetened, HiballSparkling Energy Juice drinks. All HiballEnergy beverages will now be packagedin a taller, sleeker and more elegant 10-ounce glass bottle with a custom Hiballlogo twist crown finish.

“We are eager to share our newsparkling energy juices with consumerswho prefer a bit more sweetness and flavor.The new Sparkling Energy Juice drinkscontain just 16 grams of sugar and only 70

calories per bottle” says Todd Berardi,Hiball’s founder. “Although our fans havegrown accustomed to the shorter screen-printed 10-ounce bottle, Hiball switched toa taller, sleeker and more elegant 10-ouncebottle, due to supply issues. We are excitedfor everyone to experience the next genera-tion of Hiball. It’s Good Energy!”

Made with purified sparkling water,natural juice concentrates, organic evaporat-ed cane juice, taurine, guarana, ginseng, Bvitamins and natural caffeine, HiballSparkling Energy Juices are available in

four refreshing flavors: Orange, Wild Berry,Lemon Lime and Cranapple. All productsare completely free of preservatives. TheHiball Sparkling Energy Juices received aglowing review from Bevnet.com thisweek, earning 4-4.5 out of five stars. Checkout the review here: http://www.bevnet.com/reviews/hi_ball_energy/.

All Hiball Energy beverages containhigh levels of energy through a proprietaryformula consisting of the following activeingredients: Taurine: 1200 mg, Guarana:32 mg, Ginseng: 32 mg, B vitamins: 120percent RDI, Natural Caffeine: 80 mg.

About Hiball Energy

Hiball Energy is the pioneer of a com-pletely new category of energy drinks:

refreshing, sparkling energy waters andjuices. Hiball’s Sparkling Energy Watersare the only energy drink in the marketthat are made without sugar or artificialsweeteners of any kind and contain only10 calories per bottle. Hiball’s newSparkling Energy Juice drinks are lowsugar and contain only 70 calories per bot-tle. All products are completely free ofpreservatives and are made with purifiedsparkling water, a proprietary blend of tau-rine, guarana, ginseng, B vitamins, naturalcaffeine, natural fruit flavors and/or con-centrates. Every bottle of Hiball providesa refreshing, naturally healthy boost ofenergy. Hiball: It’s Good Energy.

Visit www.hiballenergy.com formore information.

Spring Water in the central south region,Deer Park® Brand Natural Spring Waterin the mid-Atlantic and Zephyrhills®

Brand Natural Spring Water in the south.The suggested retail price is $1.49 per

bottle. In order to help protect the naturalantioxidants and flavor of the tea from lightand oxygen deterioration, each beverage ispackaged in a 20-ounce amber PET plastic

bottle with an oxygen barrier. Consumersare encouraged to recycle after use.

About AriZona Beverages

Ferolito, Vultaggio, & Sons (AriZonaBeverages) was founded in 1971 by DonVultaggio and John Ferolito and to thisday remains a privately held and family-run American business. AriZonaBeverage Company—makers of AriZonaIced Tea, flavored waters, juices, coffees,

AriZona Beverages (Con’t. from p. 12) energy drinks and powdered tea mixes—is the leader in hot-filled beverages forthe United States. AriZona’s mission is tocreate great looking products of the high-est quality that people will like and canafford to buy. For more information, visitwww.drinkarizona.com.

About Nestlé Waters North America Inc.

The company’s rank as the number onebottled water company in the U.S. was

earned through its 33-year experience withbottled water and focus on product quality,manufacturing expertise, employee devel-opment and environmental stewardship,especially in the areas of water use, energyand packaging. Nestlé Waters NorthAmerica Inc. is based in Greenwich,Conn., and is a corporate affiliate of NestléS.A., of Switzerland.

Visit www.nestlewatersnorthamerica.com for more information.

white bakery products, Arnold Whole GrainWhite Sandwich Thins have the color and

taste people love, but are made with wholegrains, offering six grams of whole grainsper serving and are also an excellent sourceof fiber. The newest variety, Arnold Select

Orowheat (Con’t. from p. 12) Seedless Rye Sandwich Thins, offer thetaste of classic rye bread with fewer calo-ries, and six grams of whole grains.

Oroweat and Arnold Select Sandwich

Thins are the first product of its kind, andare now rolling out nationally.

For more information, visitOrowheat at www.orowheat.com.


schedule

FORMER PRESIDENT BILL CLINTONANNOUNCED AS A NACS SHOW SPEAKER Former President Bill Clinton has beenannounced as a Closing General Sessionspeaker for the NACS Show. The NACSShow will take place Oct. 20-23 at the LasVegas Convention Center.

President Bill Clinton served twoterms as the 42nd President of the UnitedStates, during a time of tremendous pros-perity and change. After leaving theWhite House in 2001, he established theWilliam J. Clinton Foundation to helpstrengthen the capacity of peoplethroughout the world to meet the challenges of global interdependence. A powerful voice for progress around theworld, President Clinton will share hisunique insights and observations fromthe world stage, as well as point the waytoward a common future based on sharedgoals and values.

“President Clinton continues ourlong-standing tradition of having theworld’s top leaders share their insightsand perspectives at the NACS Show,”says Dave Carpenter, NACS ViceChairman of Convention & Events andPresident and CEO of J.D. CarpenterCompanies Inc. “President Clinton is thatrare speaker who can provide both abehind-the-scenes look at some of theworld’s biggest events, as well as acharismatic and inspirational look ahead

QUIKTRIP, QUICK CHEK CEOSTO LEAD NACS SHOW PANEL

Chet Cadieux, Chairman, President andCEO of QuikTrip Corp. (Tulsa, Okla.),and Dean Durling, President and CEO ofQuick Chek Corp. (Whitehouse Station,N.J.), have been announced as panelistsfor the Oct. 22 NACS Show GeneralSession “A Tale of Two Retailers.”

The session, presented by NACSMagazine, is part of the annual BusinessStrategy Day at the NACS Show. Theday’s General Session presentations alsowill include the Ideas 2 Go video presen-tation, a fast-paced video tour of some ofthe most interesting, creative and poten-tially profitable ideas in the convenienceand petroleum retailing industry.

The panel presentation will take aclose look at how two successful compa-nies continue to innovate and grow theircustomer bases, with practical examplesfor other retailers to consider. The session will be moderated by SteveSheetz, chairman of the board of SheetzInc. (Altoona, Pa.)

QuikTrip was founded in 1958 andtoday operates more than 500 stores, withannual sales in excess of $8 billion. Itrecently expanded its foodservice offerwith QT Kitchens. For the past sevenyears it has been named of the “100 BestCompanies to Work for in America” byFortune magazine.

“President Clinton is thatrare speaker who can

provide both a behind-the-scenes look at some of the

world’s biggest events, as well as a charismatic

and inspirational lookahead at how we all can

play a leading role inimproving conditionsaround the world.”

at how we all can play a leading role inimproving conditions around the world.”

Registration is now open atwww.nacsshow.com.

Quick Chek was founded in 1967and today has more than 120 stores inNew Jersey and New York. In addition toits traditional Quick Chek Food Stores,Quick Chek operates 12 pharmacy storesand 15 stores that sell fuel. It also is thetitle sponsor of the Quick Chek NewJersey Festival of Ballooning, the largestsummertime hot air balloon and musicfestival in North America.

Previously, former President BillClinton was announced as an Oct. 23Closing General Session speaker andtravel industry executive Roger Dow wasannounced as an Oct. 21 General Sessionspeaker for the NACS Show. The NACSShow will take place Oct. 20-23 at theLas Vegas Convention Center.

About the NACS Show

More than 21,000 attendees and 1,200exhibiting companies are expected toattend the NACS Show. NACS, the asso-ciation for convenience and petroleumretailing, is an international trade associ-ation representing more than 2,200 retailand 1,800 supplier member companies.The U.S. convenience store industry,with more than 146,000 stores across thecountry, posted $577.4 billion in totalsales in 2007, with $408.9 billion inmotor fuels sales.

THE NACS SHOW 2009:SCHEDULE AT A GLANCE

The NACS Show truly provides a one-stop shopping experience for convenience andpetroleum retailers. Between the workshops, the networking activities and the expoall under one roof, you'll find everything you need to operate a successful business.

TUESDAY 10/207:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.Cool New Products Preview Room (Retailers Only)

7:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.Registration

8 a.m. - 1 p.m.International Forum (Separate Registration Fee)

8 a.m. - 4 p.m.NACS Center

Noon - 5:30 p.m.NACSPAC Lounge

Noon - 6 p.m.International Lounge

1 - 3 p.m.Global Government Affairs Council Annual Meeting

2 - 5 p.m.Workshops

3:15 - 5 p.m.NACS Board of Directors/Retail Member Meeting

5:15 - 6 p.m.New Member Welcome Reception

6 - 7:30 p.m.Welcome Reception

7:15 - 10 p.m.Board of Directors Dinner

WEDNESDAY 10/217:30 a.m. - NoonCool New Products Preview Room (Retailers Only)

7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.Registration

7:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.NACSPAC Lounge

7:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.International Lounge

8 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.NACS Center

8 - 9 a.m.Workshops

9:15 - 10:15 a.m.Workshops

10:30 - 11:45 a.m.Opening General Session

Noon - 1 p.m.New Member Buddy Lunch

Noon - 1:30 p.m.Board Alumni Lunch

Noon - 5:30 p.m.EXPO

Noon - 6 p.m.Cool New Products Preview Room*

5 - 6 p.m.NACS Leadership Programs Alumni Reception

7:15 - 10 p.m.Past Presidents' Party

THURSDAY 10/227:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.Registration

7:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.Cool New Products Preview Room*


7:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.International Lounge

8 a.m. - 9 p.m.Workshops

8 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.NACS Center

8:30 a.m. - 10:30 p.m.Exhibitor Advisory Committee Meeting

9 a.m. - 9:30 p.m.Break (30 minutes—walk to Hilton, get refreshments, etc.)

9:30 a.m. - 10:45 p.m.General Session

11 a.m. - 11:45 p.m.Ideas 2 Go General Session

Noon - 1 p.m.CSX and Study Group Luncheon

Noon - 5:30 p.m.EXPO

FRIDAY 10/23

7:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.Cool New Products Preview Room*


7:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.International Lounge

7:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.Registration

8 - 9 a.m.Workshops

8 a.m. - 3 p.m.NACS Center

9 - 10 a.m.General Session

10 a.m. - 3 p.m.EXPO New expo hours

6 - 10 p.m.NACS Show Closing Party & NACSPAC Live Auction

*Open to all attendees

This schedule information was provided by NACS, and is subject to change. For detailed information about the show, as well as registration information, visit www.nacsshow.com.


C-STORE HYPER-TARGETEDMARKETING UTILITY INTRODUCED

Building on the momentum of beingselected as Time magazine’s 50 best Websites of 2008, GasBuddy.com recentlyintroduced the most powerful marketingutility ever developed for the retail petro-leum market, the GasBuddy SocialMedia Marketing Platform. The Platformis a turnkey Web-based geo-aware utilitythat delivers hyper-targeted promotionsand coupons directly to customers’mobile devices to increase in-store salesand drive traffic.

C-stores using the new GasBuddySocial Media Platform gain a robustWeb presence for each individual

location of a participating brand that areeasily managed through an online inter-face. By integrating online communi-ties such as Facebook®, Twitter® andLinkedIn® with GasBuddy’s network of60 million unique users and givingretailers the ability to send messages tothousands of customers at a time.Promotional messages and coupons canbe instantly sent to customers on socialmedia websites or direct to their mobiledevices. Additional features include acomprehensive Web-based contentmanagement interface that tracks cus-tomer feedback and a module for

designing and publishingbanner ads to specificGasBuddy Web sites. Inlineads can also be hyper-targeted and delivered to aspecific group of users froma particular city or zip codein association with one orhundreds of stations.

“In a market where gasstations rely on in-storesales to drive revenue, thispowerful marketing tool willset a station apart from theothers” remarkes JasonToews, co-founder ofGasBuddy.com. Speaking to the func-tionality of the Social Media MarketingPlatform, Toews says, “We want to giveretailers the ability to convert online

traffic to in-store trafficwhether those customers areon Facebook or drivingdown the road looking for aconvenient place to buy gas,a sandwich and a drink. It’s asimple interface that has thepower to instantly attractmany new customers.”Driving in-store sales iswhere revenue is builttoday—and the newGasBuddy Social MediaMarketing Platform is hereto make it easy.

GasBuddy will be at theNACS Show, booth 3755 at the Las VegasConvention Center in Las Vegas, Oct. 20-23. See www.retail.gasbuddy.com formore information.

NEXCEN BRANDS INC. OFFERSEXCITING FRANCHISE BUSINESSOPPORTUNITIES FOR C-STORES

NexCen Brands Inc., owner of multipleQSR brands including Great AmericanCookies®, Marble Slab Creamery®,MaggieMoo’s Ice Cream & Treatery®

and Pretzelmaker®/Pretzel Time® isintroducing a new exciting opportunityfor C-store owners. As the conveniencestore model continues to evolve andexpand, NexCen Brands is invitingowners to learn how they can make sev-eral of these brands an integral part oftheir operation.

Beginning this fall, NexCen Brandsis launching a specialized program for C-store owners interested in integrating the

Pretzelmaker, Great American Cookies,Marble Slab Creamery andMaggieMoo’s Ice Cream & Treatery con-cepts into their stores. The programincludes a convenience store-tailored,reduced foot print; customized con-densed initial menu of offerings; C-storespecific serving sizes and packaging; andfull franchisee training for new conven-ience store franchise operators.

For C-store owners, choosing toinclude a NexCen Brands’ QSR fran-chise in their store means a chance tooffer customers premium products withthe flexibility to customize the concept

for their business. “We continue

to evaluate ourexpansion opportu-nities and appeal toconsumers,” saysKenneth J. Hall,Chief ExecutiveOfficer of NexCenBrands Inc. (pic-

tured). “Our development, real estate anddesign and construction teams have ana-lyzed how our brands can fit into the con-venience store model and we’re exited toshare our concepts that provide recogniza-ble branding and lead the market in productquality within this new marketplace.”

Founded more than three decadesago on the strength of an old familychocolate chip cookie recipe, GreatAmerican Cookies is famous for signa-ture Cookie Cakes, trademark flavors

and a menu of gourmet products bakedfresh in store. With more than 300locations, Great American Cookiesmaintains the heritage and integrity ofits products by producing originalcookie dough exclusively from itsplant in Atlanta.

The Pretzelmaker brand offers hand-rolled soft pretzels and a variety of original products, dipping sauces andbeverages. In particular, Pretzelmakeroffers pretzel dogs and pretzel bites, con-venient premium products for today’s“on the go” consumer who frequents con-venience stores. NexCen Brands recentlyannounced plans to consolidatePretzelmaker with their Pretzel Timebrand. Collectively, Pretzelmaker willbecome the second-largest soft pretzelfranchise in the U.S. with more than 360

BAERO USA: STYLE AND EFFICIENCY

St. Louis, Mo.-based BAERO NorthAmerica Inc. has extended its CANOPUSline of light fixtures to include the innova-tive BATWING reflector technology. TheBATWING reflector design creates excep-tionally even top to bottom illumination ofshelving displays and makes fixture spac-ings of up to 16’ possible. Lighting designsutilizing BATWING equipped BAEROluminaires can provide C-store owners themost energy efficient lighting options todate with one watt per square foot or lower.

For store planners hoping to qualify forgreen energy certifications, BAERO light-ing can be a very useful tool.

Constructed with steel and aluminum,the classic design of the CANOPUS fixtureprovides C-stores with an attractive alterna-tive for their facility’s lighting system.Energy efficiency doesn’t have to come atthe price of appearance with the CANO-PUS BATWING. In addition, the incredibleproduct display and illumination that isachieved with BAERO’s T6 ceramic metal

halide creates a shopping experi-ence not possible with fluores-cent light sources.

With the three differentmounting options of track,monopoint and rail, theCANOPUS fixture can easilybe incorporated into any storedesign. Now by introducingboth the 70 and 90 degreeBATWING reflector options, in addi-tion to the original broadbeam reflector,BAERO offers a single fixture ofincredible versatility.

For more than 50 years, BAERO has

been the European market leaderin fresh food and retail lighting.In 2006, BAERO North AmericaInc. introduced the same Germanengineered luminaires and lampsto the United States and Canada.BAERO offers an entire line oflighting fixtures perfectlymatched for the challenges of C-store lighting.

Please to be sure to visit BAERO light-ing at the NACS Show in Las Vegas, Oct.21-23, at booth 3263. You can also visittheir Web site at www.baerousa.com or call314-692-2270.

HERCULES CEO ROBERT PRICETALKS POLY BAG: PAST,PRESENT & FUTURE

In the middle of Alabama, in the quin-tessential small town of Eclectic, sits anunderstated factory with a large logodepicting the muscular Roman hero,Hercules. The building, often confusedfor a gym or a manufacturer of exerciseequipment, actually is the home ofHercules Poly, a manufacturer of

various types of poly bags. Inside,President and CEO Robert Price canbe found most days analyzing produc-tion, customer needs and making surethat the company is operating as itshould. In a recent interview, Price,who is also a part owner of the compa-ny, answered our questions.

CR: Why are you involved inHercules?

RP: Initially, myfamily and I gotinvolved in Her-cules as investors.However, as wegrew to understand

the business, it became obvious that a morefocused management role was required. Ichose to put my law practice aside andfocus on learning the poly industry and allthat is involved in manufacturing poly

products. It has been an exciting challenge,and one that’s been very rewarding.

CR: What makes Hercules different fromother companies in the poly field?

RP: It’s our customer focus, beginning atthe top of the company and extending allthe way to the shipping dock. We aredriven by our customers’ needs. We arebest known for our ice bags, which weproduce to each customer’s precise spec-ifications. However, we welcome custom



top news

ConvenienceRETAILER 27September/October 2009

shopping in C-stores these days.Why will this new item be a hit?

“Permissible” (lighter) chocolate withfull chocolate flavor is still an uncrowd-ed, but growing, category, and 3 MUS-KETEERS Truffle Crisp Bars are lighterin calories, making them a truly tasty andsensible snack. Plus, in a taste test, 84percent of consumers rated the product“Very Good to Excellent.”

A 72-count Mixed Singles CounterUnit pairs the new 3 MUSKETEERSBrand Truffle Crisp Bars with 3 MUS-KETEERS Bars, and a 216-count MixedSingles Shipper includes these two itemsplus 3 MUSKETEERS Mint Bars, givingconsumers three ways to enjoy theirfavorite permissible chocolate brand. The suggested retail price for a 1.1-ouncesingle is $0.89.

Consumers who crave caramel willopt for the new, tempting WAY SimplyCaramel. This newcomer provides con-sumers with more of what they loveabout the MILKY WAY Brand—caramel! The recipe for MILKY WAYSimply Caramel already has proven suc-cessful in Canada, where it’s the thirdfastest-growing single bar in that country,paving the way to sales success in theU.S. Featuring real milk chocolate sur-rounding nothing but rich, deliciouscaramel, MILKY WAY Simply Caramelis a total caramel experience. C-storescan utilize danglers, clings and a 72-count Mixed Singles Counter Unit topromote the new MILKY WAY SimplyCaramel. The suggested retail price for a1.91-ounce single is $0.89.

As the number one chocolate brandin the U.S., M&M’S Brand continues todrive growth in the chocolate categoryand to provide excitement to consumerswith tempting flavors. This summer, thecountry indulged in tropical paradisewith the limited edition M&M’S CoconutChocolate Candies. The country is crazyfor coconut: coconut is one of the top-rated fruit flavors by consumers inM&M’S Brand research. With the sum-mer sales momentum behind the brand,in January M&M’S Coconut ChocolateCandies will be a permanent offeringavailable in 1.5-ounce singles with anSRP of $0.79.

In February 2008, consumers wentwild for M&M’S Wildly CherryChocolate Candies. This delicious treatfeatures smooth milk chocolate sur-rounded by a crisp candy shell with rich,delicious cherry flavor. M&M’S WildlyCherry Chocolate Candies now won’t go

out of season—they’ll be a permanentaddition to the offerings from MarsSnackfood. M&M’S Wildly CherryChocolate Candies feature a deep redpackage proclaiming “Get Wild!” andfeaturing Red hanging from a cherrystem. M&M’S Wildly Cherry ChocolateCandies are available as 1.5-ounce sin-gles with an SRP of $0.79.

Since big sales stem from colorfuldisplays, C-store operators can promotethese renewed M&M’S Brand favoriteswith colorful clings, danglers and a 96-count Mixed Singles Counter Unit thatpairs M&M’S Wildly Cherry ChocolateCandies with M&M’S CoconutChocolate Candies.

These exciting new flavor varietieswill entice consumers from any corner ofthe store. Tempt them with a 264-countMixed Singles Powerwing that featuresthese three new flavors—M&M’SWildly Cherry Chocolate Candies,M&M’S Coconut Chocolate Candies andMILKY WAY Simply Caramel—plusAmerica’s favorites SNICKER Bar andM&M’S Peanut Chocolate Candies.

Look for comprehensive, 360-degree marketing campaigns to launch these exciting new items fromMars Snackfood.

In addition to the new flavors above,M&M’S Milk Chocolate Candies withPeanut Butter will be offered in a newTear & Share size package in December.

Whether consumers enjoy colorfulM&M’S Chocolate Candies, indulgentDOVE® Chocolate PROMISES® orAmerica’s favorite candy bar SNICKERSBar, they can rest assured that they’reeating quality, real chocolate. As a pri-vately held, family-owned company,Mars has the freedom to treat the consumer—not Wall Street—as the boss.Since consumers demand authenticity intheir chocolate, Mars invests in the high-est quality, real, authentic chocolate thatgenerations have enjoyed through itsmany brands. In fact, Mars is one of onlya handful of companies still making itsown chocolate, “from bean to bar.”

The company led the charge tomaintain the current U.S. Standard ofIdentity for milk chocolate and promisedconsumers that it will not add cocoa but-ter substitutes to its chocolate recipes. Tolearn more about the company’s commit-ment, visit RealChocolate.com.

C-store operators at the NACS Showcan taste these delicious new items byvisiting the Mars Snackfood exhibitbooth 4747. For more information aboutMars products and promotions, contactyour Mars representative or distributor.

Mars Snackfood (Con’t. from p. 1)

diabetic friendly, very low in caloriesplus it’s made right here in the USA!Same store sales have skyrocketed 30 to40 percent with the introduction a yearago of it’s sugar free candy!

Innovative Candy Concepts, theindustry leader of healthy kids’ candy,recently grabbed the attention of the entirecandy industry by winning the ECRMKids Choice Award. The kids themselvespicked Innovative Candy Concepts’ TooTarts as their favorite candy, being fullyaware that it was totally sugar free and dia-betic friendly. The good news is, it appearskids themselves are getting the messageabout healthier eating habits.

And, now, Innovative CandyConcepts appears to have anotherhealthy winner on its hands. The newcandy called Monster Goo, it’s alsosugar free and diabetic friendly andonly has 12 calories in the whole pack.What in the world is Monster Goo? It’sa totally new sugar free candy that gotits name Monster Goo because of itsintense flavor and monster taste. It alsohas a very unique delivery system. Itcomes in a bright, colorful soft packthat has a resealable sports cap. Kidssqueeze the soft pack and

Innovative Candy Concepts (Con’t. from p. 1)

the goo comes oozing out. They suck itout of the sports cap for the ultimatetasting experience. Monster Goo mayvery well be the best new kids’ candythat comes out in years. It meets all therequirements of a real winner! Not onlydoes it meet all the health requirements,it has real kid appeal. The graphics arebright, colorful and firm. The candy isvery in tense in flavor and it’s interac-tive. Monster flavor and Monster size!Finally, a candy that parents and kidscan agree on.

Apparently the response fromcandy retailers has been over-whelmingly positive. The kids’candy market needed a home runand Monster Goo appears to beit. Innovative Candy Conceptsoffers a variety of displays frominline, counter and promotional.Monster Goo launched inSeptember. The company isbacking the launch with strongpromotional opportunitiessuch as free kids Monster Goo T-Shirts.

There’s even a song callthe Monster Goo Boogie thatcan be downloaded from theTooTarts.com Web site.Monster Goo can be seen atthe Innovative Candy booth

4561. The company says, “Do the Goo, it’s goo for you!”

stores worldwide.Marble Slab Creamery is the inno-

vator of the “frozen slab” technique,which involves mixing toppings into0super-premium ice cream on a frozenslab. Each batch of Marble SlabCreamery ice cream is made on locationusing ingredients from around theworld and fresh dairy from local farms.Marble Slab Creamery’s famous

mix-ins includes fresh fruits, fine nuts,candies and cookies.

Specializing in serving super-pre-mium ice cream and desserts,MaggieMoo’s Ice Cream & Treatery areinnovators of the world’s first ice creamcupcake and have consistently beenawarded blue ribbons by the NationalIce Cream Retailers Association.

For more information on NexCenBrands and available franchise opportu-nities, visit www.nexcenbrands.com.

NexCen Brands Inc. (Con’t. from p. 24)

opportunities, whether based on print,design, or basic function. I’m also a firmbeliever in utilizing the most modernequipment for production purposes. Inthe past two years, we have added 6brand new converting lines plus a 10 colorprinting press. With these improvements,we can produce the highest quality of printfor a variety of bag applications, includingwicketed ice and bread bags, drawstringand drawtape bags, fertilizer and mulchbags, die-cut handle and trade showbags, currency and deposit bags, andvarious bags on a roll. We are here tohelp, whatever the need.

CR: What are the greatest challengesfacing the industry?

RP: Foreign competition is a significantchallenge. The continued importation ofproducts of questionable quality threat-ens not only the poly industry but most

industries in the United States. It’s verytough to be price competitive againstproduct manufactured with governmentsubsidies, in plants with minimal laborregulation, and with raw materials thatare mined, harvested, or manufacturedwith little, if any, regard to environmen-tal or health impact. If the U.S. doesn’tfind a way to level the playing field,small businesses, in particular, will con-tinue to struggle for survival.

CR: What can customers expect fromHercules in the coming year?

RP: We are constantly working to intro-duce new products, improve on our current ones, and enhance quality andservice. We recently introduced a degrad-able line of pet waste bags and T-shirtbags on a roll. We plan to offer even moredegradable products in the future. Theseproducts break down naturally and willonly become more popular as environ-mental awareness increases.

Hercules Poly (Con’t. from p. 24)

top news

new productsnew products

ConvenienceRETAILER 29September/October 2009

Kashi® GOLEAN® Crunchy! Bars offer a deliciousand sensible on-the-go food. With flavors likePeanut Butter Bliss and Chocolate Caramel, it’s agreat way to get a unique blend of protein, fiber andslow release carbs. This unique energy bar has pow-erful brand awareness and credibility and will getyour sales in better shape.

Kashi Companywww.kashi.com

A beloved, better-for-you snack for more than 80years, Nestlé Raisinets chocolate covered raisinshave been a sweet treat of choice for consumerson-the-go, at the movies and at home for genera-tions. Today, a second spotlight shines brightwith the debut of new Nestlé CranberryRaisinets. These chocolate covered cranberriesare a delicious new addition to Nestlé Raisinetsline of 100 percent chocolate covered wholedried fruit.

Nestlé USAwww.nestleusa.com

When you’re in the mood for something a littlemore substantial, crunch into new Ritz Crackerfuls.It’s a satisfying snack made with real cheese andfive grams of whole grain per serving wrapped in asingle serve package. It’s a great way to enjoy asavory snack with the perfect combination of tastyingredients and textures. Delicious and wholesome,satisfying and real. Crackerfuls are real food thattastes great.

NabiscoPhone: 800-543-5335www.nabiscoworld.com

Experience the classic Oreo taste your family lovesin a new and fun way! Oreo Fun Stix is a delicious,crispy wafer lined with velvety Oreo crème for adelectable and satisfying treat that can be enjoyedwith milk, dessert or as a snack.

Kraft Foods Inc.www.kraftfoodscompany.com

VPX has taken the profound energy producing com-pounds of the Original Redline® and shrunk theminto a small convenient bottle. With seven, that’sright seven hours of sustained energy that will leaveyou amped to the max in minutes, the intense ener-gy will last to keep you focused and energizedthroughout the day.

VPX SportsPhone: 800-954-7904 www.vpxsports.com

Introducing a new twist on an established favorite,Rice Krispies Treats® Strawberry marshmallowsquares takes the original crispy marshmallowsquares and adds something extra special—tastystrawberry flavored crunchlets! These yummybrightly colored bits are packed with strawberry fla-vor and surrounded in the timeless marshmallowygoodness of Rice Krispies Treats. Available in 20count trays of 1.3-ounce squares, these fun treats aresure to keep customers coming back for more.

Kelloggs Convenience Store TeamPhone: 888-289-5554www.kelloggsconvenience.com

BIC Lighter has signed a multi-year licensing agree-ment with NASCAR Sprint Cup Series™ nine-timerace winner, Kasey Kahne, to create another popularline of licensed lighter wraps as part of the BIC ProSeries® NASCAR Drivers Series. There are foureye-catching lighter designs featuring Kasey Kahneand his No. 9 Dodge Charger car.

“It is exciting to see the expansion of theNASCAR Drivers Series,” says Adam Blumenthal,Brand Manager—Lighters, BIC Consumer ProductsUSA. “NASCAR and BIC share a loyal fan base, sowe are sure to please many Kasey Kahne fans withthis new lighter lineup that offers them another waythey can demonstrate their interests.”

The BIC Pro Series NASCAR Drivers Serieshighlights designs featuring Dale Earnhardt Jr., JeffGordon and now Kasey Kahne. Available in a three-driver 50-count tray, each lighter has a suggestedretail price of $1.69.

BIC Lighterwww.biclighter.com

her, or Healthy. Energy.Revitalizer is the firstactive lifestyle energydrink with women inmind. her Energy pro-vides our consumerswith a fresh, clean and

great tasting alternative to the other energy drinksout there on the market. Unlike other energydrinks, her will not make you “crash” or give youthe “jitters.” The her formula is designed to giveyou just the boost you need without over doing it.her’s sleek and stylish can is reflective of our con-sumers. her is geared towards women who are onthe go with active lifestyles while maintaining thatfun and flirty image.

her EnergyPhone: 310-871-7452www.herenergy.com


new products

WARHEADS Sour Chewy Cubes have beenrefreshed with an increased value position for bothretailers and consumers, two additional flavors andnew bright and bold packaging. Bag weights haveincreased to 2.5-ounce Count Goods, five-ounceand eight-ounce Peg Bags. In addition, the line nowincludes a four-ounce Theater Box and 0.8-ounceTrial Pack for placement in all areas of the store.Each bag now includes six flavors with the additionof two new flavors, orange and black cherry.Improved bright and bold packaging better inte-grates with the WARHEADS brand and will attractconsumers in the aisle. Suggested retail prices rangefrom $0.25 to $1.99 depending on the bag weight.

A robust sampling program is underway tosupport the launch of the product. Sampling willoccur at WARHEADS partnership events—ESPN Winter and Summer X Games,McDonald’s Midnight Gaming Championships,Gamestop Video Launch Parties and Seaworld’sSpooktacular. More than one million sampleswill be handed out at these events. “The responseto the product by consumers and retailers hasbeen overwhelming, and in these tough econom-ic times it is important to ensure we are givingthe consumer the best value we can. We feel thatwe have succeeded in refining this high qualityproduct with an improved value and a bold packaging design,” states Andy Telatnik,Director of Marketing.

The WARHEADS brand is part of the ImpactConfections leading portfolio of candy. Mass mer-chants, convenience, drug and grocery stores all turnto Impact Confections as the pacesetter in interactivecandies. As a leading innovator for confectionerycandies, Impact Confections is the recipient ofnumerous coveted industry awards for product origi-nality. The company’s diverse product portfolioencompasses such leading consumer brands as WAR-HEADS®, Lollipop Paint Shop® and Carousel Pop.Impact Confections Inc. also owns Melster Candiesin Cambridge, Wis., where it produces well knowntraditional goodies such as Circus Peanuts, PeanutButter Kisses, Salt Water Taffy, Coconut Toasties,Chocolate Covered Marshmallow and Crème Drops.

Impact Confectionswww.warheads.com

Originating from the pure artesian wells of thePacific Northwest is a water making a splash.Talking Rain Beverage Company has redefined nat-ural water yet again with Twist, a fresh, flawless,crisp spin on water.

Simply put, Twist is a USDA-certified organic,low-calorie (less than 10 per serving), non-carbonated, preservative-free, all-natural premiumwater available in a medley of fruit flavors sure toplease the palates of any water connoisseur. Bottledin a sleek euro design for shelf and table top appeal,Twist delivers the quintessential essence of fruit fla-vor and healthy hydration.

Pulling from select artesian wells, one of thePacific Northwest’s natural treasures, the water-smiths at Talking Rain, located in Preston, Wash.,instill its water with the perfect blend of juice andfruit essences. Bypassing artificial ingredients andsweeteners, Twist drinks are rooted with organicagave nectar for extra allure and sweetness—not toosweet, but sweet enough to make each sip moresplendid than the next.

Twist is available in lemon, mandarin white tea,mango acai, pomegranate blueberry, West Indieslime and wild strawberry.

Talking Rain Beverage CompanyPhone: 800-734-0748 www.talkingrain.com

Launching a new C-store product? Email [email protected] with “Convenience Retailer: New Product” in the subject line for a list ofwhat to include and deadlines.

Monster Energy has released the first energy drinkusing nitrous oxide. The revolutionary new drinkboasts a rich creamy texture and a smooth drinkableflavor. Nitrous Monster is available in three vari-eties: Killer-B, Super Dry and Anti-Gravity and isthe first brand to be released in the new RexamSLEEK 12-ounce re-sealable cap can. Killer-B contains honey and provides the drinker with amega-shot of B vitamins as well as an exotic dose ofbee pollen and royal jelly. Super Dry offers a lighter,dry texture similar to fine Champagne. Anti-Gravityis so potent that drinkers will feel like they can defygravity, the company states.

Monster Energy Inc.Phone: 866-322-4466, ext. 585www.monsterenergy.com

SandenVendo America introduces the new 2’ MiniHot Food Display. Individually adjustable shelf tem-peratures and multi-selection timers (one to fourhours) allow it to accommodate a variety of differentfood items! The Mini HFD’s small footprint andthree lift up self-serve doors make it the ideal dis-play for small counter spaces. For more information,visit NACS booth 466.

SandenVendo America Inc.Phone: 800-344-7216www.vendoco.com

ROCK energy drinks is a new generation energydrink. ROCK energy drinks increase endurance,improve reaction, speed and concentration, andincreases your mental alertness. ROCK energydrinks have a unique blend of guarana, caffeine andgingko to boost metabolism and keep you alert.ROCK energy drinks are the ideal drink to give youthat energy boost, and have a great cranberry aftertaste. Now also available in Sugar Free! Same greattaste, same energy without the sugar.

ROCK energy drinks, can you handle it?

Ignite Corp.(Auburn, New South Wales, Australia)Phone: 61-2-9646-3399

Swisher International hasannounced the mini ver-sion of two new flavors totheir Optimo line ofcigars. With the mini cig-arillo market growing,Swisher has put out twonew mini cigarillos with

two of the most popular flavors, peach and grape.

Swisher InternationalPhone: 800-874-9720www.swisher.com

convenience retailer nacs pre-show issue

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