Fall Newsletter 2024

Page 1


Bednath Pageni Honda Accord

TESTIMONIALS

HRA has helped us streamline our operation and helped us save thousands of dollars over the years.

What’s great is the network. As HRA grows we grow as retailers and have a higher level of networking. Meeting with the buyers, sellers, brokers, and vendors and establishing solid relationships. It is another component that you don’t see with a lot of other organizations.

We were hearing a lot about the bene ts of working with HRA so we decided to take the leap and join them, and have had a fantastic experience. They have the whole package that I am looking for.

Something that we see in the culture with HRA is a closeness that we have with the reps and the members. For us it is really about expanding our family.

~ Vendor: 2Amigos

HRA means a true partnership that is about making the best for our customers and the consumers. The investment they put in the eld is all about growth for everyone.

~ Vendor: Coca-Cola

HRA is a family envronment and ultimately about working together as a team to delight our customers.

~ Vendor: Pepsi

HRA presents us with an opportunity to expand into Georgia and the Southeast in a major way working with independent accounts and focusing on our mission.

~ Vendor: 1st Phorm

HRA is innovative and it is an honor to work with these guys. We focus on speci c markets and work jointly for customers.

~ Vendor: Core-Mark

We pride ourselves on being a family run business and HRA feels like a family helping other families that are in the group.

~ Vendor: United Distributors | Eternal Water

HRA has provided a quality partnership with us to help convenience store owners maximize their pro t just by being a good partner.

~ Vendor: Krispy Krunchy Chicken

THE

POWER OF COLLECTIVE

Leading Convenience Retail with Innovation & Community Impact

In a fast-paced industry where convenience and innovation are key to success, HRA stands at the forefront, balancing business leadership with a strong commitment to community impact. As a pioneer in the convenience store sector, HRA is not only reshaping the future of retail but also improving the lives of the communities it serves. HRA’s mission is clear: to be the foremost source of knowledge, power, and resources for the convenience store industry. By

fostering stronger relationships between retailers and vendors, HRA has created a platform where both can thrive. Business success and community well-being go hand in hand under HRA’s leadership. This approach is guided by four key principles—relationships, integrity, teamwork, and innovation—values that are deeply ingrained in everything HRA does. These aren’t just corporate buzzwords, but the driving force behind the organization’s continual support of both the industry and the local communities it serves.

Making a Lasting Di erence

Since its inception, HRA Foundation has been a powerful re ection of HRA's deep commitment to giving back. With a particular focus on education, healthcare, and community welfare, the Foundation aims to create meaningful, lasting contributions beyond the business world. Over the years, HRA Foundation has awarded more than $50,000 in scholarships, bene ting over 20 students, helping them ease the nancial burden of entering college. As one grateful recipient shared, “Receiving the HRA scholarship was life-changing. It gave me the nancial support I needed to pursue my dream career.”

HRA’s compassion extends far beyond education. Their commitment to supporting families a ected by

C-STORE CONNECT trade show

The 2024 C-Store Connect event was HRA’s largest and most successful yet, drawing over 1,800 attendees and more than 120 vendors. This premier event for the convenience store community o ered an unparalleled opportunity to showcase the latest trends, technologies, and innovations that are shaping the future of the industry. Retailers and vendors alike were treated to unique promotions and networking opportunities with industry leaders, gaining rst-hand insights into how emerging technologies will transform

childhood cancer is evident through their signi cant fundraising e orts. To date, HRA has raised over $287,000 for CURE Childhood Cancer, an organization dedicated to ghting this devastating illness. Through annual charity golf tournaments and partnerships with organizations like Camp Twin Lakes, HRA helps bring joy and healing to children facing serious medical challenges.

Another key initiative led by the HRA Foundation is the Hunger Relief 5K. This annual event is a vital part of the ght against food insecurity, uniting hundreds of participants each year to raise funds for Feeding America. The funds raised provide critical support to local families, demonstrating HRA’s ongoing dedication to strengthening the communities they serve.

Driving Industry Growth

convenience retail.

A highly anticipated highlight of the event is the annual car giveaway, now in its third year, along with numerous ra es and prizes that keep attendees engaged and excited. With the overwhelming success of the 2024 event, the 2025 edition of C-Store Connect is set to be even bigger and better. Attendees can look forward to more cutting-edge innovations, expanded networking opportunities, and unique promotions that provide exceptional value to both retailers and vendors.

A Future of Innovation, Integrity, and Impact

As HRA looks to the future, their commitment to innovation, integrity, and community impact will only deepen. The organization’s focus on delivering cutting-edge solutions through events like C-Store Connect and its dedication to giving back through the HRA Foundation ensures that both the convenience store industry and local communities will continue to thrive.

Now is the time to get involved in HRA’s community-driven initiatives. Whether it’s attending the groundbreaking C-Store Connect 2025, participating in the Hunger Relief 5K, or contributing to the HRA Foundation, there are countless ways to be part of HRA’s vision for a stronger, more connected industry. Together, through innovation and compassion, HRA is paving the way for a brighter future for all.

We Aim to CURE Childhood Cancer

Established in 1975, CURE Childhood Cancer is dedicated to conquering childhood cancer through funding targeted research while supporting patients and their families.

When CURE was founded, survival rates for children with cancer were just 20%. Thanks to continued research, survival rates have improved to over 80% today. Still, 1 in 5 do not

harsh and often leave survivors with life long physical, emotional, and cognitive scars.

Research is the key to unlocking breakthroughs that will save the lives of children with cancer. In the past 15 years, CURE has invested $38 million in the most promising research aimed at solving childhood cancers. Our highest priority is precision medicine, treatment targeted at tumor driving genes, which is and hard to treat cancers.

At CURE, we are also focused on supporting families devastated by a childhood cancer diagnosis through programs designed to meet a family’s emotional, practical,

17,000

families who must deal with unimaginable loss. These are only a few of the ways we serve childhood cancer patients and their families. CURE’s support encompasses dozens of services designed to lighten the load of the families and make sure they know they aren’t alone.

More than 17,000 children are diagnosed with cancer in the United States each year.

possible, from Charity Navigator

Cancer is the leading cause of death by disease in children in the United States. One in five children diagnosed will not survive.

90% and family support.

An America where no one is hungry

We know that hunger is a complex issue, so we're tackling it from all angles. We're working to improve access to nutritious food, expand economic security, and advocate for policies that make it easier for people to get the food they need.

We’re part of a nationwide network of food banks, food pantries and community-based organizations in the United States working to create a future where no one is hungry.

A partner organization of Feeding America connecting the agribusiness industry across the Southeast with food banks and nonpro ts in their ght against food insecurity.

www.feedingamerica.org | www.seregcoop.org

Working with local food banks and meal programs

When you support Feeding America, you are helping a nationwide network of food banks, food pantries, and meal programs provide resources so people facing hunger can put food on the table.

Rescuing Food Storing Food Distributing Food

Feeding America works with the food industry to rescue food that would otherwise go to waste.

Network food banks collect, store, and distribute food to local pantries and meal programs.

The network’s food pantries and meal programs distribute food to their communities.

HRA TEAM

Chris Fulford

VP of Field Operations

470.845.0500 cfulford@hraga.com

Chrissy Hanner

Director of Business Development

Georgia

470.805.0246 channer@hraga.com

Jigu Patel

Director of Field Operations

North Carolina | South Carolina

980.399.6910 jpatel@hraga.com

Ankit Patel

New Business Manager

470.531.1144 ankit.p@hraga.com

Tammy Harris

Scott Sawant

VP of Convenience Retail

470.217.8043 ssawant@hraga.com

Emily Byrd

Director of Business Development

Florida

470.750.3871 channer@hraga.com

Sr. Business Development Manager

470.805.0633 tharris@hraga.com

Katrina Hodgson

O ce Coordinator

470.561.2419 khodgson@hraga.com

Matt Geyer

Director of Business Development

Tennessee

470.427.8600 mgeyer@hraga.com

Matt Oram

Regional Manager - Center Store

470.898.5838 moram@hraga.com

Michael Toivonen

Business Development Manager

470.499.2555 mtoivonen@hraga.com

Param Modi

Product Development Engineer

470.352.0655 pmodi@hraga.com

Steve Kallaher

VP of Beverage Strategy

205.767.3504 skallaher@hraga.com

Jigar Prajapati

Director of Business Development

North Carolina | South Carolina

336.900.0836 hprajapati@hraga.com

Robyn Skowronski

Director of Business Development

Alabama

470-834-5786 rskowronski@hraga.com

Salvatore Puglisi

Business Development Manager

470.947.2666 spuglisi@hraga.com

Haviv Luna

Hispanic Category Specialist

470.551.3465 hluna@hraga.com

Dhairya Shah

Data Analyst

470.373.7347 dshah@hraga.com

Business Development Representatives

Amy Guess

470.945.4770 aguess@hraga.com

Barry Bentley

256.200.0877 bbentley@hraga.com

Jennifer Beauchene

912.300.7396 jbeauchene@hraga.com

Lorenzo Puglisi

470.898.0046 lpuglisi@hraga.com

Parth Patel

470.633.5326 ppatel@hraga.com

Cherita Bloodwirth

423.506.2829 cbloodwirth@hraga.com

Jessica Reeves

864.407.2615 jreeves@hraga.com

Patricia Garces

919.208.7429 pgarces@hraga.com

Makayla Wrenn

615.719.3360 mwrenn@hraga.com

Darshan Nayak

470.898.4848 dnayak@hraga.com

Linda Hembree

470.831.7196 lhembree@hraga.com

Stacey McMahon

706.580.8095 smcmahon@hraga.com

Kim Pierce

407.595.8625 kpierce@hraga.com

Tracy Osborne

334.530.3796 tosborne@hraga.com

Your Member Portal

Follow Our 3 Step Login Process

1: Click on Reset Password

2: Enter your HRA number and Registered email ID

3: Click on the Reset Password link in your email and set a new password

Your Rebate Calendar

December 31:

January 15:

January 31:

February 1 - 15:

February 1 - 15:

February 16 - 28:

End of February:

End of Q4 2024

HRA Requests Vendors’ Velocity Reports

Reporting Received from Vendors

Data Reconciliation

Vendor Payments to HRA

Member Veri cation

Payment to Members

Goal: Rebate Payments to Members within 8 Weeks of Quarter End.

GRAND OPENING ADAIRSVILLE, GEORGIA

The grand opening of Grab & Go in Adairsville marked not just the debut of a new convenience store but a celebration of community, collaboration, and support led by a collaboration between HRA and its valued member, Grab & Go. As a trusted partner in the retail community, HRA played an integral role in orchestrating a memorable event, bringing together local leaders, law enforcement, and residents to recognize and support the latest addition to Adairsville’s business landscape.

HRA representatives were enthusiastic about their involvement, acknowledging how this event underscored the association’s dedication to building relationships and fostering growth for its members. “We’re excited to be part of Grab & Go’s grand opening,” shared an HRA representative. “This is about more than just

business; it’s about relationships and community. With all the vendors and support groups present, it’s evident that this event was a community e ort.”

Amir, one of Grab & Go’s partners, echoed this sentiment, thanking HRA for their extensive support. “We’re grateful to HRA and their team. They’ve been instrumental in ensuring the success of this grand opening. Every detail was meticulously planned, from vendor partnerships to community engagement, and it’s thanks to them that we’re able to see this result today.”

The choice of Adairsville as the location for Grab & Go was a strategic one. According to Amir, the team recognized a promising market opportunity in the area. “We’ve been in the region for a while, and we saw potential for a new, well-equipped store to serve the community. The city has been incredibly welcoming, and everything aligned perfectly for this opening.”

The grand opening wasn’t just a day to cut the ribbon but a fully immersive experience for everyone who attended. Thanks to HRA’s support, the event included participation from notable vendors like Golden Flakes, Utz, ZOA, Coca-Cola, and more. Guests were treated to product samples, exclusive deals, and an opportunity to see the impact of Grab & Go rsthand. “The HRA team’s attention to detail brought in amazing vendors and created an environment where community members felt appreciated,” said Noor Bhai, a key partner of Grab & Go.

MEMBER FEATURE

One highlight was the presence of Emily, an HRA Business Development Representative and a vital connection for HRA in the region. “This team has been incredible to work with,” said Emily. “HRA is about building long-lasting partnerships, and Grab & Go has been a pleasure to support. Every time I visit, I’m greeted with smiles and warmth – they truly represent the community spirit that we strive to build with all our members.”

The grand opening set a high standard, but HRA’s commitment to its members goes beyond one-day events. Their ongoing support includes annual customer appreciation events, one-year anniversaries, and continuous opportunities for vendor relationships and deals to enhance each member’s business. HRA’s upcoming trade show on September 18th will be another chance for members to explore new products, interact with vendors, and bene t from special promotions.

The close-knit collaboration between HRA and Grab & Go has laid a foundation not just for this store but for future growth and continued support. “We’re honored to be part of Grab & Go’s journey,” said Scott Sawant, HRA Director of Convenience Retail. “Our members are family, and our mission is to support them in their growth. We look forward to seeing Grab & Go thrive and to helping other members experience similar successes.”

As Adairsville welcomes Grab & Go, it’s clear that the partnership between HRA and its members is about more than just transactions—it’s about building communities and empowering local businesses to succeed.

A Path to Growth

The Hispanic population in the U.S. is growing rapidly, and it is shaping consumer trends in various sectors, including the convenience store industry. With over 63 million Hispanics in the country, making up approximately 19% of the total population, this community represents not only a signi cant portion of the consumer base but also one of the fastest-growing demographics. As you look to grow and diversify your customer base, marketing to Hispanic consumers is both a strategic and practical approach.

Seeing a signi cant increase over the past few decades, and projections suggesting this growth will continue, the Hispanic population is expected to be nearly one-third of the U.S. population by 2050. This demographic shift presents a valuable opportunity for convenience stores to cater to a larger, more diverse audience.

Beyond mere numbers, the economic in uence of this demographic is substantial. Hispanic households contribute signi cantly to the economy, boasting a purchasing power that exceeded $2 trillion in 2023. If you wish to expand your customer base you should consider adapting product selections and marketing strategies to better serve this community.

Hispanic consumers are known for their brand loyalty, family-centric purchasing decisions, and preference for authentic products. Here are some key items to consider:

Fresh Produce & Meat

Shoppers often favor fresh ingredients for home-cooked meals. Consider stocking staples like avocados, cilantro, peppers, and tortillas.

Ethnic Snacks & Beverages

O ering products like churros, empanadas, Jarritos sodas, and traditional snacks can enhance the shopping experience and boost sales.

International Brands

Familiar brands like Goya, Bimbo, and La Costeña resonate well with consumers, making them must-have products.

Health & Wellness Products

With rising health consciousness there is an increasing demand for organic, gluten-free, and low-sugar options.

MILLION

ESTIMATED HISPANIC POPULATION OF THE UNITED STATES

SHARE OF TOTAL US POPULATION THAT IS LATINO

Understanding shopping habits is also crucial. Hispanic consumers tend to shop more frequently and are inclined toward stores that are friendly, convenient, and culturally aligned. Emphasizing bilingual sta , culturally relevant signage, and promotions can make your store more appealing and accessible. E ectively reaching this market requires a tailored approach that not only recognizes cultural nuances but also resonates on a personal level:

Bilingual Signage & Advertising

Use both English and Spanish in marketing materials, store signs, and other communications. This makes the shopping experiences more comfortable.

Community Engagement

Host or sponsor community events, particularly those that celebrate Hispanic heritage and traditions. From food festivals to local soccer matches, engaging in activities can enhance brand loyalty.

Digital Presence

The Hispanic Community is among the most active users of mobile technology and social media. Utilize targeted digital campaigns, mobile-friendly websites, and localized advertising to reach this tech-savvy audience.

Loyalty Programs

A program that rewards frequent visits and o ers discounts on family-oriented products are very appealing.

OF GROWTH of GenZ in the U.S. Auto Industry 25% of Millennials 21% HISPANIC CATEGORY INSIGHT

Creating a welcoming environment is more than just stocking the right products; it’s about creating an inclusive atmosphere. Highlight Hispanic products in dedicated sections, making it easier for shoppers to nd culturally speci c goods and decorate stores during key Hispanic holidays and o er themed promotions to attract more foot tra c.

The Hispanic community in the U.S. is not only a growing population but also a driving force in consumer trends. By aligning with Hispanic cultural values, understanding product preferences, and implementing targeted strategies, you can unlock a path to sustainable growth. Embracing this vibrant and diverse community is an essential strategy for thriving in today’s evolving retail landscape.

MEDIAN AGE

28

68%

ESTIMATED BUYING POWER OF THE U.S. HISPANIC POPULATION

MINIMUM AMOUNT THE MORE THAN 3.1 MILLION HISPANIC-OWNED BUSINESSES WILL CONTRIBUTE TO THE AMERICAN ECONOMY THIS YEAR MILLION

Marco Achirica 770-330-3622

Northeast GA, Central GA marcoap@2amigosdistribution.com

North GA, West GA, East, GA

Daniel Jaramillo 404-933-3539

Metro Atlanta distryjaramillo@gmail.com

Miguel Ochoa 770-843-6952

Birmingham AL South dulmexsnacks@gmail.com

Miguel Ochoa 770-843-6952

TN, Birmingham AL North dulmexsnacks@gmail.com

Emmanuel Arnedo 305-857-7008

Middle GA, Forsyth, Below, South GA sales@emdistri.com

Alberto Galvan

704-315-9398

NC, SC algalvan41@gmail.com

73% Rank OREO & Coke

THEIR FAVORITE BRANDS

Coca-Cola Creations is a Gen Z engagement model designed to recruit next generation consumers by leveraging “Besties” like Coke and Oreo.

#1

Most Preferred Flavor

Most Preferred Zero Sugar

Most Incremental Sales

Sep 30 - Dec 31

BEVERAGE

BRINGS NEW BUYERS INTO CATEGORY

+30MM

ADVANTAGED CREDIBILITY

2-4x higher

Will bring in new, active non-category buyers into enhanced water1 “Gatorade” brand resonates with active people more vs. competition for:2

ADVANTAGED PRODUCT

Electrolyte infused

“Overall liking” taste score, higher than competition3

Iced Vanilla Berry

The Energy Drink with exceptional taste of blueberry, vanilla, and icy-fresh notes of eucalyptus.

8.4oz & 12oz singles

Contact your local sales rep to order any of these great products!

Distributors for these products could be United Distributors, NE Sales, or BevSouth depending on your store location.

COMING SOON TO HRA MEMBER STORES JANUARY 2025

2024 Complete Store Program

Partnerships are essential in our emerging digital age. Members with good partnerships can grab precious market share from other established competitors and grow and create

parties. When we all work together, the whole truly is greater than the sum of the parts. The BTC complete Store Program is reinforced by continuous improvement and a decrease in prices to support HRA’s Members. Quarterly reviews of the members’ purchases allow them to increase their bottom line as their store increases its purchases. The result is strengthened experience for our customers and a boost to business for the member partners. Our goal is to create parity for all members and give everyone the opportunity to have the best pricing in the market today.

If an HRA Member is buying exclusively from BTC, then BTC has the ability to place this customer at any Level. If an HRA member is not buying exclusively from BTC, then BTC can change the level at any time. If an HRA member opens a new store or buys a new store

volume. It is the members responsibility to notify BTC that they are now a new HRA

PLEASE BE FURTHER ADVISED that it is BTC who determines the nature and scope of any relationship between our customers, and you have the right, upon request for a reasonable explanation and BTC will respond within a reasonable time after receipt of this notice, to obtain a complete and accurate disclosure of the nature and scope of any such action BTC may or may not take regarding pricing with a member.

From our humble beginnings in 1888 as Glaser Bros., a single tobacco storefront in San Francisco, Core-Mark has grown into the largest and most-valued marketer of consumer goods in North America. While the past century has brought incredible changes to our business and the world in which we operate, our goal is the same today as it was over 120 years ago -- to provide customers with the best possible ser vice and to help them grow their

Our mission is to be the most valued marketer of fresh and broad line supply solutions to the convenience retail industry.

• Flexible

• Competitive Pricing

• Consultative Sales Service

• Marketing Programs

• Space Rationalization

• Competitive Retails

• Suggested Programs

• Demographic Survey Focused Marketing Initiative

Based on per delivery average, not weekly All rebates paid quarterly

• Branded Food Programs –You can make any of our programs your own!

• Retail Space Management –Plan O Grams, Store Layouts

• CRS – Customer Reimaging Service – Let us help with your rebrand at no charge to you!

• User friendly website with live data

• Multiple ordering options

• Bi Weekly visits from Territory Sales Representative

- $9,999

- $5,999

Variety of on-the-go fresh options, including salads, fruits, desserts, protein trays, whole fruit, etc.

• Dedicated Foodservice Team

• Multiple annual expos and dedicated foodservice expos

• Hackney Innovation –Guaranteed Novelty program

• Monthly Money Save and Live Promotions with Rebates on Everyday Products

• Many guaranteed lines only from Hackney – Hostess, Bon Appetit, and others!

items, including bulk cut or whole vegetables

McLane leverages unmatched scale, strategic partnerships, and innovation to help retail and restaurant businesses compete and grow. We simplify the process for convenience store operators to offer high-quality, fresh food and beverages, removing pain points and barriers. Trusted to distribute America's favorite brands, we earn your partnership daily.

McLane offers HRA members a 2% non-cig rebate and a generous cigarette rebate. To enroll, contact Ben Phillips at 706.340.7122 or benjamin.phillips@mclaneco.com. For more information, visit mclaneco.com

People Will Drive Miles For Their Favorite Fried Chicken

The first step to making money is making chicken. Serve up freshly made, golden-fried deliciousness straight from your own counter. No franchise fees, simple set up and world-class support. Itʼs an easy decision to make!

EXCLUSIVE HRA PROGRAM

Percentage of our eaters leavining the house looking for a Krispy Krunchy Chicken.

of your customers go to a nearby QSR between 11am and 2pm within 30 minutes of leaving your store.

Percentage growth in prepared food last year for the c-store industry.

avors. The network of specialty suppliers pairs well with our culinary and business expertise. Unparalleled selection of innovative ingredients and cutting-edge products connects your business to the industry-leading distribution network, keeping you stocked with the best products, hottest trends, and newest ideas.

Month

BRANDS WE HAVE ACCESS TO

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