Table of Contents 4) AASOA BOARD MEMBERS Important AASOA Board Member Contact Information
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7) WORKER�S COMPENSATION Why it is important and How it protects you 2013 Sunshine Food & Fuel
8) AASOA MEMEBRSHIP Membershoip Form & Information
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Dear AASOA Members, Thank you for your wonderful support of the recent FPMA show in Orlando. With more attendees and exhibitors than last year, everyone was enthusiastic about new opportunities and the wide variety of proven products and services. As an active member, your support continues to increase the success of all organizations and businesses associated with store ownership. The economy is on an upswing and we continue to discover new networking opportunities that benefit our businesses and the surrounding community.
10) OBAMACARE TAX UPDATE How will Obamacare effect your business 12) 12.5 BILLION DOLLAR FAD A look into Energy as a Consumerable Brand 16) TIPS N TRENDS Products Trending Now
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One of these exciting new opportunities is the introduction of the new publication, AASOA Magazine. With a focus on our growing membership, you will discover new ways to run your business more efficiently; find out about new legislative issues on the state and national level; and learn about new products and services to increase customer traffic. Members will receive AASOA Magazine for free. With the inaugural issue being distributed in the Fall, now is the time to take advantage of a new networking source that will reach more than 6,000 members and associates.
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19) NACS EXPO Insight on what to expect at the National Association of Convenience Stores Upcoming Expo 24) WHY BE COMPLIANT What Environmental Compliance entails and why it is cost effective 27) FUN WITH FPMA Photo Showcase of FPMA’s 2013 Sunshine Food & Fuel Expo
As your Executive Director, I ask you continue to lend your support to our expanding organization and new publication. For details about advertising in AASOA Magazine, please contact aasoamagazine@gmail.com for more information.
30) AASOA MARKETPLACE Products & Services Business Classifieds 10
Respectfully, Vipul Patel Executive Director AASOA 16
TIPS n TRENDS
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AASOA Asian American Store Owners Association 577 Barnes Blvd Suite 650, Rockledge FL 32955 • Telephone: 321-271-7072 • Fax: 321-234-9292 • Email: aasoaconnect@gmail.com www.assoa.com
Executive Board Members
AASOA Magazine
Dr. Bhalani • 321-298-5531 • kbhalani@hotmail.com Sumit Shah • Southeast Petro • 321-508-4140 • Summit@southeast-petro.com Vipul Patel, Ex. Director of Business Relations • 321-271-7072 • vipulpatel66@gmail.com Hitesh Patel • Member Relations • 321-961-7776 • hiteshmcrae@me.com Sunil Shah • 904-982-7999 • sunilshah121@gmail.com Mital Sariya • 386-566-2183 • sweta171@juno.com Bakul Patel • 772-370-7401 • bakulpatel@bellsouth.net Raskin Shah, CPA 321-223-4410 • russ@raskinshahcpa.com Susan Tindall • Admin • 321-543-1495 • stindall@cfl.rr.com
Board Members
President of AASOA
Sumit Shah 321-508-4140
Summit@southeast-petro.com EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS RELATIONS
Vipul Patel 321-271-7072
vipulpatel66@gmail.com
PUBLISHER & SALES DIRECTOR
Joseph Laurino 321-480-3606
AASOAmagazine@gmail.com DESIGN & EDITORIAL
Cajun Graham ArtworkAASOA@gmail.com For Advertising Rates Please Call 321-480-3606 Email : aasoamagazine@gmail.com
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Mike Shah • South East Petro • 321-917-3470 • mike@southeast-petro.com Raj Shah • Kars Petro • 321-288-7717 • raj@allamericanoil.net SK Patel • SK Management • 321-223-4900 • sandeep915@hotmail.com Atul (AK) Patel • 321-591-6968 • akpatel1961@yahoo.com Gaurang Bhatt • 772-335-0249 • gbhatt77@bellsouth.net Nilesh Shah • 321-223-4869 • nick_27101965@yahoo.com Nilesh Patel • 321-302-1869 Andy Patel • 904-923-5129 • andypatel@kwiktripoil.com
Regional Coordinators Sanjay Patel • St. Augustine • 904-540-9751 • nishilcorp@aol.com Prakash Patel • Palm Coast • 386-341-5062 • ronak_386@hotmail.com Kiran Patel • Ormond Beach • 321-591-1644 • kiranpatel45@gmail.com V. M. Patel • New Symrna Beach • 386-689-5062 • Virenpatel200@hotmail.com Ashvin Patel • Edgewater • 321-591-7128 • ashvinrnb@yahoo.com Samir Patel • Titusville • 321-271-6162 • samirporda@yahoo.com Chetan Shelat • C.J • 321--258--5505 • shelatpalak@yahoo.com Jatin Patel • Merritt Island • 321-536-8333 • aicpatel1961@yahoo.com Jaimit Patel • Merritt Island • 321-591-2672 • Jaimit2468@aol.com Dikesh Shah • Palmbay • 321-795-6580 • nickshah3280@yahoo.com Binal Patel • Deland • 321-432-2943 • binal_patel@yahoo.com Apurva Dhruv • Orlando 407-489-1069 • ace_7117@hotmail.com Kalpesh Mehta • Ocala • 352-875-5275 • kalpesh_1039@yahoo.com Mehul Dani • Ocala • 305-989-1186 • its_mehul22@yahoo.com Dhimant Shukla • Live Oak • 321-615-4511 • dhimant2006@yahoo.com Tushar Patel • Vero Beach • 772-696-5159 • Tpatel1234@bellsouth.net Vipul Shukla • Port St Lucie • 772-240-4384 • kalnashukla@aol.com Manist Shukla • Port St Lucie • 772-979-4879 • Shukla5@comcast.net Ajay Bhatt • 772-678-1113 Rajan Patel • PSL • 772-834-2923 • rajenpatel@msn.com Atul Patel • PSL • 772-708-9385 Dipen Patel, West Palm Beach 561-758-2481 Pateldipen1989@gmail.com Gunjan Patel, West Palm Beach 561-801-3540 Gpatel0612@gmail.com Rajesh Patel, Tampa 727-771-3228 venuspariwar@gmail.com Purav Shah, Tampa 813-766-3844 p.shah@svn.com
Raskin Shah, PA Serving Professionals & Businesses Since 1994
“Our Client Success Is Our Business” Certified Public Accountant Complete Accounting & Tax Services Professionals & Businesses · Monthly and Quarterly Financial Statements Preparation · Corporation and LLC Income Tax Preparation · Personal Income Tax Preparation · Sales Tax Preparation · Payroll Services · IRS and Sales Tax Audit Representation · Tax Planning · Free Consultation Raskin Shah, PA
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The Importance of Worker’s Compensation
Worker’s Compensation is an important insurance policy to maintain and keep current. This coverage protects both the employees, as well as the employer. While having a worker’s compensation policy in force it requires both the employees as well as the employer to follow certain rules and regulations. Worker’s Compensation rules and regulations differ from State to State. It is important to review your local State rules to be sure your business is in accordance with the laws pertaining to the requirements of the coverage. In accordance with State Standards, it is required by law for businesses in the state of Florida to carry this coverage providing the business size meets the requirements. This can be a major expense for business owners; however, the long term results are much more beneficial when you have an employee injured on the job. The injury could be a result of an ongoing injury such as back pain, carpel tunnel, or any daily repetition of certain tasks that result in injury. This coverage protects you as the business owner to make sure the employee is taken care of and there are no long term suites over injuries. This also protects you to be sure that the injury happened while the employee was working. The law covers all accidental injuries and occupational diseases arising out of and in the course and scope of employment. This includes diseases or infections resulting from such injuries. The law also covers death resulting from such injuries within specified periods of time. Even if you do not think an injury is covered, you must still file the First Report of Injury or Illness (DWC-1) with your insurance carrier for determination of responsibility within 7 days of your first knowledge of the accident/injury.
In this economy it is important to obtain this coverage to ensure you are properly protected as a business owner
Worker’s Compensation offers discounts for drug free programs being enforced in the work place. This it to insure that the injury was not a direct result of negligence for use of drugs or alcohol while on the job. Worker’s Compensation does not cover accidents or injuries related to an act of violence started by the employee. There are other incidents that will not be covered under the worker’s compensation policy. Those are but not limited to: self-inflicted injuries, horseplay or violation of company policy or procedures, and many other incidents that may be deemed an invalid worker’s compensation claim. The law covers all accidental injuries and occupational diseases arising out of and in the course and scope of employment. This includes diseases or infections resulting from such injuries. The law also covers death resulting from such injuries within specified periods of time. Even if you do not think an injury is covered, you must still file the First Report of Injury or Illness (DWC-1) with your insurance carrier for determination of responsibility within 7 days of your first knowledge of the accident/injury. Employers are not completely protected from all employee lawsuits related to injuries. If the employer does not carry the proper Worker’s Compensation policy in pursuant to State Regulations the employer could be fined a penalty. The employee could sue the employer for punitive money damages. The employee could also file a lawsuit against the business in Civil Court. In this economy it is important to obtain this coverage to ensure you are properly protected as a business owner. Either being a small business owner or a large fortune 100 Company; the important key is to be profitable. By: Hitesh Patel, Reliance Insurance
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Obama Care Tax Update:
By Raskin Shah, CPA
Brief insight for you and your employees Small Business Health Care Tax Credit This credit applies to Small Employers, generally those with fewer than 25 full time employees with average wages of less than $50,000.00 per year. Small Business Heath Care Tax Credit helps small businesses afford the cost of covering their employees and is specifically targeted for those with low- and moderate-income workers. The credit is designed to encourage small employers to offer health insurance coverage for the first time or maintain coverage they already have. In general, the credit is available to small employers that pay at least half the cost of single coverage for their employees. Beginning 2014, the Maximum Credit will increase to 50 percent of premiums paid for small business employers. Even a small business employer who did not owe tax during the year, can carry the credit back or forward to other tax years. Also, since the amount of the health insurance premium payments is more than the total credit, eligible small businesses can still claim a business expense deduction for the premiums in excess of the credit. That’s both a credit and a deduction for employee premium payments. Health Insurance Premium Tax Credit Starting in 2014, individuals and families can take a new premium tax credit to help them afford health insurance coverage purchased through an Affordable Insurance Exchange. The premium tax credit is refundable so taxpayers who have little or no income tax liability can still benefit. The credit also can be paid in advance to a taxpayer’s insurance company to help cover the cost of premiums. Shared Responsibility Medical Payment/Tax for Individuals A tax/penalty will apply to individuals who fail to maintain minimum essential health coverage on themselves and their dependents. For each taxable year the shared responsibility Medical payment/ tax is: For year 2014: The tax penalty is $95 per person or 1 percent of adjusted gross income, whichever is greater. For year 2015: The tax penalty is $325 per person or 2 percent of adjusted gross income, whichever is greater. For year 2016: The tax penalty is $695 per person or 2.5 percent of adjusted gross income, whichever is greater Net Investment Income Tax A new Net Investment Income Tax goes into effect starting in 2013. The 3.8 percent Net Investment Income Tax applies to individuals, estates and trusts that have certain investment income above certain threshold amount Additional Medicare Tax A new Additional Medicare Tax goes into effect starting in 2013. The 0.9 percent Additional Medicare Tax applies to an individual’s wages, Railroad Retirement Tax Act compensation, and self-employment income that exceeds a threshold amount based on the individual’s filing status. The threshold amounts are $250,000 for married taxpayers who file jointly, $125,000 for married taxpayers who file separately, and $200,000 for all other taxpayers.
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Raskin Shah, CPA is an owner of Raskin Shah, PA full service accounting and tax practice in Brevard County, Fl. He can be reached at (321) 269-6677 or email: russ@raskinshahcpa.com. Website: RaskinShahCPA.com
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$12.5 BILLION FAD?
With an estimated total market value of over $12.5 Billion dollars, and being officially listed in the Merriam-Webster Collegiate dictionary, energy drinks are no passing fad. While there have been numerous iterations since 1985’s Jolt Cola, there are three brands that currently dominate the global market: Red Bull (43%), Monster (39%), and Rockstar (10%). All other brands fall at 3% or lower in total market share regardless of the fact that their revenues in some cases still exceed $250 Million Dollars. With an estimated total market value of over $12.5 Billion dollars, and being officially listed in the Merriam-Webster Collegiate dictionary, energy drinks are no passing fad. While there have been numerous iterations since 1985’s Jolt Cola, there are three brands that currently dominate the global market: Red Bull (43%), Monster (39%), and Rockstar (10%). All other brands fall at 3% or lower in total market share regardless of the fact that their revenues in some cases still exceed $250 Million Dollars. The first real “energy drink” in the United States that was not a caffeine-saturated soda was Pepsi’s Josta that it introduced in 1995. Unable to maintain traction, the brand was shuttered in 1999 after Red Bull had came to the U.S. and quickly snatched up 75% market share a year earlier. Red Bull is the concoction of Austrian entrepreneur Dietrich Mateschitz whom enjoyed a Thai drink that aided his focus, and Chaleo Yoovidhya, a Thai businessman that owned a particular tonic drink company that manufactured Dietrich’s newfound love. The two partnered to “take the drink to the West,” and after three years and some tinkering, they had a carbonated beverage called Red Bull. There have been dozens of startup companies that have produced varying types of energy drinks since, and many that have had significant success carving out a specific niche in the market. Chief among these disruptive innovators is 5 Hour Energy and Manoj Bhargava, the company’s founder. Bhargava developed the concept of the energy shot, a densely concentrated dosage of many of the same formula ingredients of the 8.4 and 16 ounce drinks, but in a sub-2 ounce size bottle. Launched in 2004, energy shots have taken off as a replacement to energy drinks for those that prefer the quick boost of energy.
The top ingredients used in many energy drinks are BVitamins, Caffeine, and Taurine. B Vitamins including the commonly included B6 and B12 are essentially the things that assist your body in converting food into energy. For energy drinks, that food is regularly glucose, or sugar, which is found in significant amounts in energy drinks. The jury’s still out on whether or not they increase energy levels via supplementation. Names for some of the most common non-numbered B vitamins are niacin, riboflavin, cyanocobalamin, and pyridoxine hydrochloride.
Caffeine stimulates the central nervous system giving the body a sense of alertness. It is known to simultaneously raise the pulse and blood pressure while also dehydrating the body. Side effects can occur in people consuming more than 200mg of caffeine, which may include sleeplessness, headaches, heart palpitations, nausea, and most commonly the “jitters.” Caffeine is the most widely used drug on the planet and has been used for centuries for it’s stimulating effects. Taurine is an amino acid that is naturally produced by the body. It aids in regulating the body’s heartbeat, energy levels, and muscle contractions. Energy drinks include taurine as a supplement for the body as it is believed that under certain conditions like physical exertion or fatigue, the body does not create enough and supplements can help.
There are many different ingredients that can be included in energy drinks in a variety of “proprietary blends,” which include ginseng, anti-oxidants, ginkgo biloba, creatine, yerba mate, acai berry, artificial sweeteners, among others. 13
A 2013 study out of Centre College in Danville, KY, suggests that caffeine is the only ingredient that actually works to create the focus and energy that energy drink consumers enjoy.
“A lot of people take the energy drinks because they think they have that extra boost over caffeine,” said study researcher Chelsea Benham, but the study shows “there’s really no difference.” The study goes on to elaborate that in near term effects that the physical reaction times of the individuals participating were no different whether consuming caffeinated water or the 5 Hour Energy shot. Benham suggested that a longer reaction time test than twenty minutes likely would yield different results. With all of the success of the multi-billion dollar beverage niche, there has been significant concern as of late to the dangers surrounding regular or excessive consumption of energy drinks, as well as the subsequent concerns over whom energy drinks are marketed to. On June 18th, the American Medical Association voted to institute a ban on marketing energy drinks, shots, and mixes to anyone under the age of 18.
Regardless of the health concern, energy drinks are a massive consumer product that is enjoyed by hundreds of millions of people. From the massive revenues, and derivative profits, major energy drink companies are modifying their businesses to be less beverage companies, and more “Active Life” brands. This is notably obvious with the market leaders Red Bull and Monster.
“‘Energy drinks contain massive and excessive amounts of caffeine that may lead to a host of health problems in young people, including heart problems, and banning companies from marketing these products to adolescents, is a common sense action that we can take to protect the health of American kids,” said AMA board member Alexander Ding, MD.
Red Bull spends upwards of 30% of its revenue on market- surface and leap from a helium-balloon lifted platform. ing. By comparison Coca-Cola, the largest and most widely In doing this globally recognized descent, Red Bull recognized brand in the entire world, uses only 9%. Mon- documented the entire preparation process generating ster is estimated to spend roughly the same. When these over 34 million views of the jump’s highlight video alone. two energy drink giants sell a combined $6.5 Billion dol- Innovative marketing that not only captures the attention, lars worth, there remains a lot of money dedicated to mar- but the imagination of its loyal customers is a strategy keting. How energy drink brands spend that money is the that is employed by entertainment brands, which is one unique difference between the energy drink strategy and of the notable traits of energy drink companies. Despite a traditional beverage company. Red Bull, Monster, and all of the various health concerns that has spawned contheir competitors target young athletes and artists, and gressional discussion and bans in various countries, the sponsor them for the events they participate in. This in- 18-35 demographic loves their energy drinks. The energy cludes a number of action sports like skateboarding, BMX drink overall market value is on pace to exceed $15 Billion bicycling, and snowboarding, Supermarkets and convedollars this next year. to motor sports like rally car nience stores play a massive racing, motocross, and Nascar. role in this industry’s growth, All of these sporting as they are the dominant events, concert tours, and connection between the festivals are no match for distributors and consumers. the unique marketing play Taking advantage of a dithat Red Bull l a u n c h e d Felix was also able to break two records (highest manned versified energy drink selecthis past year as a part balloon flight and highest altitude jump) as well as be the first human tion within the store allows of their Red Bull Media to break the sound barrier by free falling at Mach 1.25 (843.6 mph) as customers to get precisely a part of his 4 minute and 19 second descent. House: Red Bull Stratos. what they are looking for, Working with Austrian skydiver Felix Baumgartner, Red whether that be one of the big three, or a lesser known Bull developed a capsule and skydive system that allowed brand that has its own loyal, niche customer base. Baumgartner to travel twenty-four miles above the earth’s Robert Sloan, Marketing Director for Liquid Nitro Beverages
AASOA MEMBERS EARN AN EXTRA $1200.00 PER YEAR!
• We Maintain & Service Weekly • Fully Compliant with All State & Local Laws • Conveniently Located Outside Your Store • 1st of Every Month You Receive a Check • We Work With For-Profit & Non-Profit Kids Organizations • We Provide Clothing to the Less Fortunate • Helps Keep Items Out of Landfills • Recycling is Important
Call Marc Douglas at 954-214-5912 For For More More Details Details or or to to Schedule Schedule aa Drop Drop Off Off
Specializing in Gas Stations, Convenience & Liquor Store Properties
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Products, People, and Programs at the NACS Show Mean Profits! This year, the 2013 NACS Show is in Atlanta GA from October 12-15 at the Georgia World Congress Center. Many AASOA leaders and members will be at the Show as will be many other independent operators. In fact, Atlanta is closer to the majority of convenience and fuel retailers than any Las Vegas or Chicago. And by far, there are many more independent operators such as AASOA members who are closest to Atlanta than any other NACS Show city. It’s About History. NACS has held an annual meeting every year since its founding in 1961, but it wasn’t until 1976 that the meeting included a full-scale expo, which was part of the meeting every two or three years. The addition of the expo demonstrated to suppliers that convenience stores were the channel of choice to move products. In 1993, the annual meeting became the NACS Show. The Petroleum Marketers Association of America (PMAA) has held its Fall Meeting as part of the NACS Show since in 1995 and the Petroleum Equipment Institute (PEI) has held its annual meeting as part of the NACS Show since in 2002. It’s About Size. With more than 24,000 attendees from 65 countries — all seeking or offering the newest innovations, education and conversations about today’s important industry trends and issues, the NACS Show is the convenience and fuel retailing industry’s premier event, offering unmatched opportunities for buyers and sellers to come together, conduct business and learn from one another — all in an
environment rich with new ideas and new partnerships. 65 countries — all seeking or offering the newest innovations, education and conversations about today’s important industry trends and issues. It’s About Connecting. It’s the only annual event of its kind — specifically designed for the convenience and fuel retailing industry — that combines products, people and programs to equip AASOA attendees with the strategies and tactics they need to succeed and thrive. Every year, the NACS Show brings together convenience and fuel retailing industry professionals for four days of learning, buying and selling, networking and fun — all designed to help participants grow and run successful operations. Simply put, the NACS Show equates to the products, people and programs that mean profits. Because of the rapid pace of change and innovation in our industry, the NACS Show is a must-attend event every year. For industry retailers who are serious about the sucess of their business, the NACS Show is essential. As convenience and fuel retailing’s premier industry event, the NACS Show offers unmatched opportunities for buyers and sellers to come together, conduct business and learn from one another- all in an environment rich with new ideas and new partnerships.
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We want to know... What’s your counter’s best seller?
It’s About Products. The NACS Show is the #1 buying show in the United States, according to Exhibit Surveys Inc., and provides the most comprehensive representation of products and services for the convenience and fuel retailing industry. The Show also ranks fourth in terms of total buying plans- the percentage of attendees who anticipate buying within 12 months of a show. In addition, the event ranked sixth for buying power — the percentage of attendees who make or recommend final purchasing decisions. The NACS Show’s score of 92% was considerably higher than the all-show average of 84%. The NACS Show also ranked eighth for the amount of hours each attendee spends visiting the expo: Attendees averaged 10.4 hours per person, higher than the all-show
Send us a photo of your Store’s counter with your best selling item (along with your information) and win a chance to be featured in our next issue!
Email Your Entries to : ArtworkAASOA@gmail.com
average of 9.1 hours. Year after year, this bustling showcase, including the Cool New Products Preview Room, is a launch pad for the future, with new innovations, products, services and other growth opportunities. Each October, retailers from around the world come to the NACS Show expo to find new ideas, products and services that help grow and strengthen their business. This year the NACS Show will feature the largest expo in the Show’s history — more than 392,000 net square feet. A total of 1,050 companies are ready to exhibit, of which 150-plus companies are first-time exhibitors.
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It’s About People. Retailers rely on the NACS Show for strategies that increase sales, attract new customers, build their brand and improve their bottom line. Importantly, they also come to the NACS Show to network and connect with industry peers and experts. Some of the best solutions to business challenges and ideas for growth come from
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colleagues, peers and other industry leaders. With literally tens of thousands attendees, be prepared to engage with familiar faces and make plenty of new connections. It’s About Programs. The NACS Show is much more than the latest in cutting edge products and services. Participants can choose from more than 50 educational sessions — from food service and operations to fuels and category management — and interactive discussions led by respected industry experts. These sessions are developed by industry leaders and categorized into specific tracks, making it easy to identify the sessions most relevant to an attendee’s interests and professional development. NACS Show educational sessions address the top-of-mind topics of the highly competitive, multi-billion dollar convenience store industry.
It’s About Time! TheNACSShowhasaninnovativeidea,thelatestproduct, a new relationship and a potential money maker for every ASSOA member. What better way to develop your business than be exposed to the varied and dynamic educational sessions, the 390,000-plus net square feet of expo showcases more than 1,000 exhibitors and more than 150 new exhibitors. More feet on the ground means your company can see all the new products and services on display.
FastracTM In-Bay Mini Tunnel The Compact Wash System of Today RETRO-FIT! 40 Cars an Hour!
Headquartered in Weymouth, Massachusetts, Vehicle Wash Systems Inc, has been an innovative leader in the car wash industry for over 40 years. Its President, Martin Geller, has over many years manufactured car washing equipment for both the individual car wash owner as well as developing custom systems for the automotive industry, truck and bus washes. As an Owner/Operator of numerous car washes over the years, Mr. Geller and his staff have a keen eye for what is needed to complete ground up projects as well as single pieces of equipment. With their combined experiences in the areas of electrical, mechanical, plumbing, etc., the can assure you that your project will be WHY THE FASTRACTM completed on time every time. This unique Mini-Tunnel will fit in the same space as most Constructed of Stainless Steel, the In-Bay Automatics yet processes four times more vehicles TM FASTRAC IN-BAY MINI TUN- per hour! Plus, its simple mechanical design is easy to NEL System consists of a Conveyor maintain. No computer engineer needed here! All this and and Correlator. The electric drive the FASTRACTM is still priced comparable to much slower Wraparound Washers with soft foam and more complex in-bay automatics. material, Rocker Panel Washers, and overhead Mitter with a 90” high The FASTRACTM IN-BAY TUNNEL System is a low clearance, provide ample cleaning maintenance, high wash volume package. power to get the job down. The system comes complete with a Tri-Color Combine all of this with an attractive purchase price, the Polish Wax Arch, Scaler Wax Arch, FASTRACTM IN-BAY TUNNEL System is the perfect 45hp Drying System, Sign Package, choice to replace an existing Rollover Machine or a low and optional “Awesome” Tire Shiner. producing self-service bay.
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Have you registered for the 2013 NACS Show in Atlanta? If you have, that’s great! If you haven’t, it’s not too late! Go to www.nacsshow.com And if you can’t make it this year, be sure to stay connected to AASOA and NACS for offers to attend next year’s 2014 NACS Show in Las Vegas, October 7-10 at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas NV. NACS and AASOA make it easy for AASOA members to attend the NACS Show. We really hope we see you at the NACS Show in Atlanta GA! 22
Michael Davis; VP NACS Member Services
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Taking a Proactive Approach to Environmental
From companies in the retail UST sector to a wide range of other energy, commercial and industrial businesses, many organizations have a need to manage environmental liabilities. However, stakeholders may not realize that there is far more to this subject than simply cleaning up after accidents. Being prepared to respond effectively in emergency situations is crucial for companies in heavy industries, but engaging in proactive efforts to prevent environmental liabilities from emerging in the first place is typically a far more cost-effective approach. There are many different
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The unique system monitors multiple electrical parameters in real time and generates continual automatic power corrective measures (per phase) that optimize voltage imbalance, current imbalance, harmonic distortion, neutral line current, and power factor. These automated corrective actions result in reduced electrical energy costs and improved equipment performance. Typical monthly electrical energy bill savings range from 5% to 15%. The system also provides a complete internet accessible power monitoring system that records and displays 2-years of critical electrical information such as voltage, current, power factor, voltage & current imbalance, neutral line current, harmonic distortion, and energy savings.
NO MONEY OUT OF POCKET REQUIRED! REQUIREMENTS: YOU CAN’T AFFORD • Your electrical service must be NOT TO SAVE MONEY 3 Phase 208-460 Volts CALL 800-344-8700 • Fax a copy of your FAX 781-331-8701 Electric Bill to 781-331-8701 • Upon analyzing your bill we will contact you and advise you of your savings www.washngo.com
substances that can pose a risk to human or ecological health if unintentionally released. Whether such materials are held in above or below ground storage tanks, it is important for tank owners to adhere to established best practices for ensuring containment. In many cases, there may be specific, legally mandated standards that must be followed. Being able to demonstrate compliance is essential. Corporations must not only maintain compliance with all pertinent laws and regulations- they also need to collect data demonstrating that they are meeting their obligations.
WANT TO ADVERTISE IN THE NEXT ISSUE OF AASOA MAGAZINE?
Give me a call! Joey Laurino 321-480-3606 Sales Manager
Compliance Can Help Companies Avoid Liabilities This data must be reported to the appropriate agencies in a timely manner and kept on record in an organized format so that it can be retrieved when necessary. Conducting regular, rigorous audits is the only way for companies to definitively ensure that they remain in compliance and that any emerging issues are dealt with before they are allowed to sprawl. This helps guarantee that potential environmental liabilities are kept in check and related costs can be effectively controlled. Independent consultants can provide an invaluable aid.
When tank owners discover that they have potential environmental liabilities involving one of more of their properties, they need more than a remediation company. They need a partner that can help with every aspect of compliance. Cleanup projects are only one piece of the environmental liability puzzle and even if remediation work is necessary, there will still be a need for subsequent monitoring and reporting. When companies work with a full-cycle provider of environmental compliance services, they can enjoy the simplicity of having a single point of contact for aid on everything from site assessments, strategic plan-
ning, permitting and auditing to remediation, monitoring and reporting. Ideally, organizations that are concerned about environmental liabilities should seek out a consulting firm whose in-house staff have expertise in the full range of services required to tackle the problem. This helps ensure that the company will be able to conduct a complete diagnosis of all pertinent regulatory, technical, and cost recovery information, develop project or portfolio management strategies that account for unique conditions at specific sites and develop a financial model capable of forecasting spending scenarios that cover the entire duration of a project. When the emphasis is on managing the total cost of a remediation or compliance program from a holistic perspective, it enables stakeholders to resolve their environmental liabilities at the lowest possible cost and get back to focusing on their core business. For more information visit www.ppmco.com
To Exhibitors and Store Owners The Asian American Store Owners Association would like to thank you for your participation in the recent FPMA/AASOA Trade Show. We hope the platform provided you with great opportunities to build your business. Our exhibitors put on a great show allowing us to learn about their latest products and services. With over 300 exhibits and an attendance of over 2000 attendees it was the largest turnout in Florida history of Convenience Store Events and we hope it exceeded your expectations. We are always interested in suggestions on how to further enhance the Trade Show experience. Whether an exhibitor or attendee, any feedback you can provide will be valued and greatly appreciated. ASSOA is a growing organization and we invite those who are not yet members to visit www.aasoa.com and join. It’s free, and our growing membership allows us to network and learn about new trends in the industry as well as new products and services. We now have grown to over 1000 members in Florida and in 2010 we welcomed Virginia to our organization. The Virginia Association was the first in what is now a regional organization. Today we are working with other southeastern states to open more chapters.
Why has AASOA grown so quickly? The answer is that we have maintained that high energy level and have the determination as business men and women to build and thrive in this fast paced industry. Partnerships with suppliers allow us to collectively create buying power. Networking meetings allow us to gather together, meet new suppliers, learn about new products and give customers what they want and need. By staying up to date on what’s happening in Washington DC we participate in, monitor and promote legislative and regulatory issues that impact our business on the local, state and federal levels. Our communication network gives AASOA members the latest news on essential issues, concerns and opportunities relevant to the industry; We invite you to join AASOA. Membership is free and there are plenty of benefits to joining. AASOA continues to Save You Money, Protect Your Interests, Keep You Informed and Make Sure Members’ Interests Come First! Again, to our store owners, thanks for taking the time out of your busy day to attend and to our exhibitors, thanks for going the extra mile to help us put on a great show. We are already looking forward to another exciting show next year!
Visit www.aasoa.com to learn more about AASOA or call 321-271-7072. 26
Vipul Patel
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS RELATIONS
FUN WITH FPMA 2013 Sunshine Food & Fuel Expo
27
Making Connections & Memories Fun, Food, Friends- FANTASTIC TIME!
Save the Date! 2014 Sunshine Food and Fuel Expo 28
August 1-4, 2014 Hilton Orlando Bonnel Creek Orlando, Florida
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Resources Air vending resource www.airarv.com ASSENT MARKETING 407-489-1069 ASIAN AMERICAN STORE OWNERS ASSOCIATION www.aasoa.com AVAIL VAPORS www.availvapor.com CHARITABLE BINS; MARK DOUGLAS 954-214-5912 COLEMAN HANNA www.colemanhanna .com EPICUREX www.epicurex.com FIFO: www.fifowireless. com FLORIDA PETROLEUM MARKETERS CONVENIENCE STORE ASSOCIATION www.fpma.org GENERAL WATERS, INC. www.GeneralWaters Inc.com GENOVESE COFFEE SHOTS www.shotsby genovese.com GO GLOBAL www.goglobalfl.com GREEN SMART LIVING: www.greensmartliving.com HUNT BROTHERS PIZZA: www.huntbrothers pizza.com JCS ENTERPRISES www.LCSEnterprises. net
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AASOA Classifieds
MARKETPLACE Business Opportunity FASTRAC IN-BAY MINI TUNNEL: This unique Mini-Tunnel will fit in the same space as most in-bay automatics yet processes four times more vehicles per hour. Plus, it’s simple mechanical design is easy to maintain. No computer engineer needed here! All this and the FASTRACtm is still priced comparable to much slower and more complex in-bay automatics. Other models available. For more information Call 800-344-8700 or visit www.washngo.com
products & supplies super e-cigarette™ is a battery-powered device that provides inhaled doses of nicotine by way of a vaporized solution. It is an alternative to smoked tobacco products, such as cigarettes, cigars, or pipes, and should only be used by long-term smokers. GreenSmartLiving is constantly expanding its reach, partnering with convenience stores, smoke shops, liquor stores and pharmacies all over the country to provide our customers increased convenience, as well as the opportunity to support the retailers in their neighborhood. www.greensmartliving.com LIQUID NITRO Real Energy Drink- NO BULL! Liquid Herbal Nitro has grown in the last 5 years. We started in Southern California, with just our original Liquid Nitro Herbal Energy Drink. We expanded our products as well as our manufacturing and distribution centers. Liquid Nitro can meet the demands of both on & off premise customers, as well as sugar and carb conscious individuals. With a taste and performance ranked in the top ten of all Energy Drinks (nutrition farm top ten energy drinks). www.nitrobeverages.com
avail e-cigarette vendor. Today’s E-Cigarette Market is on the upswing. Align yourself with a comprehensive supplier of flavor eccentric liquids, the new industry standard, available in disposable and rechargeable devices. Solving a long acknowledged problem in flavor and affordability. Be the facilitator for change in your business, for your customer. www.availvapor.com FIFO WIRELESS PRODUCTS Provide the most innovative high quality wireless accessories at a competitive price any time- every time! We offer state of the art wireless phone accessories nationwide by superior quality products, capitalizing new technologies while providing excellent customer service and creating massive distribution channels. Check out all of our innovative products at www. fifowireless.com
REAL ESTATE FOR SALE Gas stations with Property, Palm Bay: $549,000. Stuart: $899,000. Pt. St. Lucie: $329,000, Ft. Lauderdale: $2,499,999, 7/11 in Palm Beach: $2,599,000. Call Marc Gomes, 561-968-6068 for further info or go to www.isellgasstations.com
transportation No matter the size of your fleet, JCS Enterprises, Inc. is a one stop shop for all your transportation needs! Over 700 semi-trailers in inventory, dry vans, flatbeds, reefers, shipping containers, metal fabrication shop, Fullservice truck paint and body shop, Parts sales and service / fully stocked warehouse - day and next day shipping, decal removal and trailer washing! The Southeast’s “Preferred” Vendor! JCS Enterprises: 800-664-3325
Resources LAZAREX CANCER FOUNDATION www.lazarex.org LIQUID NITRO www.nitrobeverages. com MAGIC PUFF: www.cityecigarettes. com MAUI & SONS www.drinkmauiandsons.com MODERN AIDS: www.moderaids.com NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF CONVENIENCE STORES www.nacsonline.com PARTY NUTS www.partynuts.com PetroPreneur, LLC www.isellgasstations. com POSITIVE ENERGY DRINKS www.drinkpositive energy.com PPM CONSULTANTS: www.ppmco.com RASKIN SHAH, PA www.raskinshahcpa. com RELIANCE INSURANCE: 321-225-8962 STACKER: www.stacker2.com SUNSHINE FOOD & FUEL EXPO sunshinefoodandfuelexpo.com TELL INDUSTRIES: ww.tellindustries. com VEHICLE WASH SYSTEMS www.washngo.com VOX CALLING CARD www.voxcall.com