Convenience Stores

Michaels assured customers a previously disclosed data security issue had been fully contained and raised the disconcerting prospect that it is only possible to make such a claim after a breach has been detected.

The company said in January that it learned of possible fraudulent activity on some U.S. payment cards that had been used at it stores. An extensive investigation ensued that involved two independent security firms who, along with the company, worked closely with law enforcement authorities, banks and payment processors to determine what happened.

Most U.S. retailers make their first international foray in contiguous markets such as Canada or Mexico for obvious reasons. However, for those interested in massive growth potential who have a long term perspective a more exotic market beckons.

A new low cost money wiring service from Walmart saves customers money and showcases the thought process the company applies to disrupt high margin businesses and generate store traffic.

The new service is called Walmart-2-Walmart and when it launches on April 24 customers will be able to wire up to $900 for only $9.50. between Walmart’s 4,000 U.S. locations. The service is intended to complement Walmart’s existing relationship with MoneyGram which offers a broader range of financial services including international transfers.

By Andy Couch, DJM Real Estate

Bentonville, Ark. – Wal-Mart Stores Inc. and money transfer provider Ria Money Transfer, a subsidiary of EFT provider Euronet, are launching Walmart-2-Walmart Money Transfer Service. Available April 24, the new service allows customers to transfer money to and from more than 4,000 Wal-Mart stores nationwide for what Wal-Mart says is up to 50% less than similar offerings on the market.

Post Holdings plans to acquire Michael Foods and its related entities for $2.45 billion. The acquisition is expected to be completed in the second quarter of 2014, subject to customary closing conditions.

Michael Foods is a leading packaged goods company providing value-added food products and service solutions to customers in the foodservice, retail and food ingredient channels. The company holds leading market positions in each of its three segments and produces a broad range of value-added egg products, potato products and cheese and dairy-case foods.

Miami - Burger King Corp. is launching AT&T Wi-Fi services for all of its U.S. restaurants. The upgraded platform, "Whopper Wi-Fi,” replaces and upgrades current restaurant Wi-Fi networks.

Benefits of the new, streamlined Wi-Fi platform include customizable set-up and consistent service at all stores.

Corpus Christi, Texas -- Susser Holdings opened two new Stripes convenience stores during the first quarter of fiscal 2014 and acquired 47 convenience stores at the end of January 2014 that are currently operating under the Sac-N-Pac brand. The company has acquired one additional convenience store to date in the second quarter, and currently has 17 under construction.