From major M&A deals to an increased focus on in-store foodservice and beverages, as well as the ongoing evolution of convenience stores from pit stops to destination spots, convenience retail is evolving – and operators must continuously innovate to keep pace.

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The broad reach of the digital revolution now includes the ubiquitous grocery circular. In the first half of 2016, the number of digital coupons available grew by 23.4 percent, while the number of mobile coupon users in the U.S. rose by almost 18 percent. While traditional print circulars are not likely to disappear completely, many grocery chains are now developing circulars specifically for digital and mobile platforms. Wegmans, for example, introduced a mobile app, allowing customers to clip virtual coupons, while Safeway offers a weekly online circular.

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