Updating Your C-Store Award

Durfee's
Yale University
New Haven, CT

Opened: Over 20 years old but completely renovated in September 2009

Gross Sales/Day: $7,500 (weekdays)/$6,000 (weekends)

A small (720 sq.ft.) campus c-store located on the first floor of Durfee freshman residence hall in Yale's Old Campus section, Durfee's stocks a broad selection of fresh items, including sandwiches and salads made by Yale Dining, vegetarian/vegan entrees, yogurts, fresh fruit and milk, as well as a wide variety of packaged grab-and-go snacks, drinks and sundries in both traditional and organic varieties.

It has recently added hot foods like locally crafted pizza, Buffalo wings, chicken tenders, fries and nachos that are available from lunch through late night (2 am) daily.

The venerable Durfee's was originally an ice cream/soda shop before morphing into a c-store that offered convenience but little distinction and plenty of congestion and clutter.

The renovation in 2009 transformed the space into a customer-friendly store that emphasizes high-demand items and foodservice. The rearranged layout reduced shelf space but added a new checkout area with under-counter refrigeration and a small prep space that finishes food brought over from Yale Dining kitchens. The stock reduction, which reduced SKUs by about 40 percent, left a much more attractive and open shopping area while retaining the most in-demand items. The result is a venue that is a favorite late-night spot for students.