Updating Your Existing C-Store Award: South Campus Express

Syracuse University
Size: 2,200 sq. ft.
Gross Sales/Day: $ 3,300-3,500

Once a dimly-lit, satellite bookstore in a low-traffic area, Syracuse University's South Express taps a hidden strength: its proximity to the 75 percent of South campus students are who apartment dwellers. Because the decision to make the conversion was sudden and just weeks before the Fall semester began in 2009, major renovations were delayed for a year; but that year of makeshift operation allowed dining to fully explore the wants and needs of its potential customer base.

True renovation work took place last summer, with an interior wall removal and glass storefront extension to offer much stronger visual and physical access. The creation of an addition doorway for manage entry and exit improves theft control. To expand the convenience food offering mix, a seven door freezer was added against the back wall. Two large display coolers were added in the store's front to merchandise produce and give the store a fresh and inviting look.

To build traffic, it caters to those with special diet needs and offers merchandise not available elsewhere on campus: gluten-free, organic, locally-sourced, vegetarian and vegan items that make up 25 percent of store sales. In its first year, the store doubled sales; in year two sales increased another 50 percent; this year another 15 percent increase is forecast.