Convenience Store Tour Food Export-Midwest Convenience Products Buyers Mission October 4-7, 2008

CONVENIENCE STORES SMALL HIGH MARGIN LIMITED SELECTION MOST OFFER GASOLINE TOTAL SIZE INCREASING… NEW STORES AVERAGING OVER 3,000 SQ. FT. EXPANDING READY-TO- HEAT, READY-TO-EAT ADDING NEW SERVICES... i.e., 7-Eleven, AM-PM, Wawa, Albertsons Express, etc.

CONVENIENCE STORE FACTS: Convenience Stores sell over 80% of U.S. retail gasoline. Roughly 62% of convenience stores are run by “independent” operators. Texas has the most Convenience Stores in the United States, accounting for 10% total U.S. stores with over 14,000; Illinois ranks 9 th with around 4,500 stores.

U.S. CONVENIENCE TRENDS Stores are adding more “convenience” for customers –92% have ATMS –68% sell money orders –16% have a carwash –Many are also pairing with hypermarkets, restaurants, gas stations and other businesses to make a “one-stop-shop” for customers

U.S. CONVENIENCE TRENDS Super-sizing: Similar to restaurant trends, most c-stores have increased their beverage size. The “Big Gulp” and other super-sized drinks are common, while a small 8oz. Coffee is no longer offered by most. Hypermarkets are adding gas and convenience stations to their retail sites.

U.S. CONVENIENCE TRENDS U.S. C-stores compete with other retailers by offering convenient locations, longer hours and easy in-and-out access to customers. Most stores offer Foodservice and are expanding their options.

CHALLENGES IN THE U.S. Rising oil prices → less gas consumption Struggling U.S. economy → less disposable income Rising credit card fees → smaller profit margins

TREASURE ISLAND Privately-owned company which has 7 stores in the Chicago area. The company is over 45 years old and is known as “America’s most European supermarket.” Features a wide variety of imported products and specialty foods, including high quality meats. Most stores are located in Chicago apartment complexes and commercial areas.

CVS PHARMACY CVS is one of the largest pharmacy chains in the United States with approximately 6200 stores across 40 states. CVS sells prescription drugs, general merchandise, cosmetics & beauty products, film & photo-finishing services, greeting cards & convenience products.

7-ELEVEN International Convenience Store Chain with stores in 18 countries. It’s the largest chain store in any category, beating McDonald’s by 1,000 stores.

ILLINOIS TOLLWAY OASIS Rest areas composed of multiple vendors found along toll ways in Illinois. There are currently 7 oases. Contain fast food, convenience products and gas and offer free WiFi access for visitors.

CONVENIENCE STORE TOURS Observe prices, products, locations and target markets in each of the locations minutes per stop ABSOLUTELY NO PICTURES will be allowed.