Is working at a convenience store a dead-end job? Not according to a new survey of U.S. consumers.
As many as 70% of respondents said that it’s common for convenience store employees who demonstrate a commitment to their job to become managers, or eventually to own their own convenience stores. The survey by the National Association of Convenience Stores (NACS) revealed that 59% of consumers said that convenience stores offer employees opportunities for advancement.
“Focus group interviews that we conducted earlier this year with past c-store employees affirmed the hugely positive attributes of how their c-store jobs helped them grow their business skills,” said Jeff Lenard, VP of Strategic Industry Initiatives at NACS in a statement.
Advertisement
Additionally, 71% of respondents felt that jobs at convenience stores provide equal opportunity for those without a formal education.
Up to 15% of Americans say they have worked in a convenience store and that they would recommend working in a c-store to others. Among the factors contributing to these positive impressions are:
- 79%: the experience gained at that job was valuable;
- 67%: the job offered pay consistent with their experience; and
- 66%: would recommend this type of work to others, particularly as a first job.
As in other retail environments, store associates can be critical to improving the customer experience. A Salesfloor study revealed that when shoppers visit stores:
- 84% seek out help or recommendations from sales associates;
- 87% are more likely to buy an item recommended by a sales associate; and
- 77% are more likely to make a purchase from a sales associate who has helped them before.
