There is a new nameless convenience store in town that is offering prospective customers low prices.
The new store is located on East Wooster Street next to Beat the Bookstore.
Store owner Steve Smith said the prices will be low and in line with on-campus convenience stores. He added he is not worried about the competition.
“Our prices will be phenomenal,” he said. “We are here because of the students, and as long as we have a good relationship with the students, everyone wins.”
Graduate student Isaac Thorp said he feels the new store is a good idea because of its benefit for consumers.
“Sounds like a great idea. New competition tends to benefit the consumer. On a side note, it would be nice if they sold cigarettes so I didn’t have to walk so far to pick up a pack,” he said.
Freshman Erica Reese said it’s an excellent idea for a new store, but only if there are good prices and Lunchables are offered.
“I think it’s a good idea as long as their prices are really good. I’m so broke, and I can’t even do laundry, so cheap pizza Lunchables would be excellent,” she said.
Smith said he wants people to spread news about the new store by word of mouth instead of pricey ad campaigns.
“We would rather promote our business by word of mouth, ensuring that all our customers are happy,” he said.
Smith said he hopes the new store will be BG1 friendly. He added the new store is hiring happy, punctual and honest people.
The new store is also hosting a name-the-store competition. The winner will receive $100 and bragging rights.
Smith said he thought of the competition idea because he wants to see student involvement.
The winner will be selected on Dec. 1 by Smith, his wife, Angie, and Steve Russell, who also own the store.
Smith said they are looking for a name that is most applicable and wants to know how his store can help students.
Store name submissions can be made via e-mail at [email protected]
Along with the submissions, he would like the students to add what they would like to see in the store.
The convenience store will operate from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and will feature a 24-hour ATM outside.
The business is slated to open Jan. 1, 2008.
