The Convenience-Store in Usa

1. How has the convenience-store concept evolved in the United States?

From being just a store that started selling ice blocks to a store that sells a wide variety of products ranging from food to electronics, the convenience store concept has significantly evolved in the USA over the years. Despite the tough economic times and increase in costs, the convenience store industry continues to grow and be profitable. As consumers become more pressured for time, the speed of convenience stores is creating value for customers. The relatively small size and convenience of these stores has allowed them to adapt to the changing environment and consumer preferences in the US, making them resilient against big supermarket chains and other retailers. Convenience stores are changing their product mix by offering more food service items with higher margins than cigarettes that satisfy demand for ‘’quick and easy ’’ food selections. Over the years convenience stores have innovated their product line by offering other services such as cash checking and wire transfers.

2. Is the concept universal across all countries, including Taiwan?

The concept of convenience stores has evolved globally and the format established in the US could be replicated all over the world, especially in Taiwan. Not only has Taiwan been able to replicate the concept but has also innovated new products and services that convenience stores could offer. Taiwan’s high population density was a perfect base for the convenience store industry. Several characteristics of the Taiwanese society such as vertical zoning, in comparison to the US horizontal zoning, were important to the growth of these stores. The vertical zoning allowed a 24/7 flow of customers in the high-rise buildings in Taiwan. Also Taiwanese traits such as immediacy were important for the growth of convenience stores. All this has led Taiwan to become the highest