By Dr. Maurice Yeates and Dr. Tony Hernandez

With over 22,000 convenience stores operating in Canada, comprising both traditional stores and combined gasoline stations with convenience, the latest research from the CSCA identifies the key locational trends impacting this large retail sector. The growth of combined gasoline and convenience retail locations is discussed and the transitioning ownership structure and corporate concentration outlined across the country. While the report highlights the challenges facing traditional convenience retailers in this sector, it also points to the opportunities to serve growing new urban demand for local shopping.