Hubbard Confident of C-store Industry’s Future

LAS VEGAS – Despite the challenges the convenience store industry faces today, its opportunities are greater, said 2008-2009 NACS Chairman Sonja Hubbard at the 2009 NACS Show opening general session, held here from Oct. 20-23, 2009.

Hubbard, who is also CEO of Texarkana, Texas-based E-Z Mart Stores Inc., cited the unique traits of the industry that provide it with success. “We innovate, seize opportunities and use our engagement and diversity as our strengths,” she said.

“Think about the everyday things, just taken for granted, that were either developed or popularized in our stores -- all in the name of convenience. Self-service gasoline, 24/7 operations, pay at the pump, ATMs, self-serve fountain and coffee and so much more.”

Hubbard also noted the industry’s openness makes it unique. “I’ve heard this from our suppliers -- and I saw it all year on the road. We share experiences, we mentor and value our relationships and we engage. That’s why I love this industry so much,” she said, adding this allows for better decisions, experiences and opportunities for growth.

Speaking of the industry’s challenges, Hubbard acknowledged taxes and regulations among those at the top.

“I cannot think of another industry that faces more tax and regulatory challenges than convenience stores,” she said. “Constant excise tax increases, pending FDA regulation [of tobacco], expanding labor laws and new fueling mandates…The poorly thought-out, irrational legislation that is pouring out of Capitol Hill today is a huge threat to our business.”

Hubbard concluded by comparing 2009 with 1993, the year that her father, Jim Yates, served as NACS Chairman.

“Those were tough economic times, too,” Hubbard said. “But my dad knew it was a cycle -- that we were resilient -- that we would be just fine, and he said so at that year’s NACS Show,” said Hubbard.

She added: “So today, I’m here to tell you that not only are we going to be just fine, we are going to be even better.”