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4 Reasons Why a Clean Convenience Store Increases Profit

TRAX Analytics

May 11, 2022

Convenience stores serve many customer types, from travelers stopping in to refuel before hitting the road again to locals stopping by for a snack. Despite the vast differences between convenience store visitors, nearly everyone prefers a clean store over a dirty one.

Clean stores help turn visitors into customers, so improving sanitation is a no-brainer for owners looking to increase convenience store profits.

Let’s examine four reasons why a clean convenience store increases profits.

#1- First impressions truly matter.

When a store lacks cleanliness and organization, it can influence customers visiting for the first time to make that visit the last time. First impressions matter, and people prefer making purchases at a clean store rather than one that’s unkempt. Whether they’re stopping in for a restroom break or buying snacks while they get gas, a clean store can make all the difference in closing a sale. In fact, among people surveyed, more than 60% said they had left a convenience store without making a purchase specifically due to cleanliness issues.

#2- Clean restrooms encourage more visits.

Quick access to a restroom is one of the main reasons why many individuals stop at a convenience store. As such, walking into a clean bathroom can influence the way the rest of the visit proceeds. More than half of people who visit convenience stores reported that an unclean restroom would deter them from frequenting the store again.

When convenience stores maintain restroom sanitation, visitors are less likely to leave in a hurry and more willing to browse the shelves and make purchases. Thus, one of the easiest ways to increase profits is with a clean restroom.

#3- Customers prefer to buy food from clean stores.

Customers not only tend to spend more time browsing a clean store, but they’re also more likely to make food purchases in a location they’re comfortable visiting. On the other hand, a dirty store discourages customers from spending any more time in the area than what’s absolutely necessary.

As such, adherence to strict sanitation schedules can increase convenience store profits quite effectively.

#4- Neater layouts make finding products simple.

A clean store with neat, organized shelves and a simple layout makes it easy for customers to find what they’re looking for. One of the key reasons for visiting a convenience store is convenience. Customers have more positive experiences in stores when products are arranged in ways that make sense and encourage more browsing.

Owners and managers can almost effortlessly increase customer retention and sales by emphasizing custodial practices among convenience store staff. Promotions, loyalty programs, and excellent customer service are beneficial, but few of these steps will be effective if customers are driven away from poorly-cleaned stores.