Ontario Convenience Stores Association - OCSA

10/26/2026

Retailers! Have you scaled back your cold cooler space yet, or are cold drinks still flying out the door? Tell us your autumn beverage strategy below! ☕👇

ontariocstores.ca

10/24/2026

It's Freeze-Dried Candy! 🍬

Originally developed for space missions, freeze-drying removes moisture while intensifying flavour and crunch. Today, it’s one of the highest-margin confectionery additions in convenience retail. Placing these vibrant bags beside your payment terminal capitalizes on viral social trends and high-margin impulse buys.

Want to learn how new product categories can drive higher register totals? Read our full breakdown on product innovation trends on our blog: ontariocstores.ca/news/

10/23/2026

Classic Halloween chocolate bars V.S. High-margin bags of freeze-dried candy. October snack trends are shifting faster than the weather! 🤯🎃

October used to belong exclusively to traditional chocolate bars and pumpkin-flavored treats. But with novelties like freeze-dried candy taking over checkout counters across Ontario, impulse snack sales are looking completely different this autumn.

Retailers, we want to know what’s moving at your tills! Are customers sticking to classic chocolate, or are freeze-dried treats dominating your counter space? Vote below! 👇
ontariocstores.ca

10/17/2026

Credit card processing fees shouldn't devour your hard-earned margins! 🏦

Merchant processing fees represent one of the highest hidden overhead costs for convenience store operators. Through OCSA's official Moneris partnership, our members gain access to exclusive preferred association rates that eliminate unnecessary markup fees and keep more money in your store's bank account.

Stop overpaying on daily card transactions! Tap the link in our bio to visit our Moneris portal page and request a rate audit today: ontariocstores.ca/moneris/

10/16/2026

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: Rosseau General Store in Rosseau, Muskoka 🪵🍁🥩

Established in 1874, the historic Rosseau General Store has been a cornerstone of cottage country for over 150 years. Evolving from a humble trading post into a beloved community gathering place, this iconic store serves as a home away from home for local residents, cottagers, and visitors across every season.

From their in-house butcher offering premium cuts ("the best steak on the lake") and fresh baked pies and treats to local produce, pantry staples, hardware supplies, apparel, and scoops of ice cream, they supply everything needed for cottage living without the long drive into town. It’s the kind of place where neighbours bump into neighbours, kids make lifelong summer memories, and everyone is greeted with a warm hello.

Independent retailers like the Rosseau General Store represent the very best of Ontario retail: balancing rich heritage with true community connection. Thank you to the team at Rosseau General Store for keeping over a century of local traditions alive and for being a valued part of the OCSA family!

👉 Have you stopped by the Rosseau General Store during a trip to the lake? Drop a 🍁 or share your favourite memory in the comments below!

10/16/2026

10/16/2026

Stop in today to your local Ontario Convenience Store and get your tickets for tonight's record breaking Lotto Max Draw!!
Est Jackpot of $90 MILLION DOLLARS!!!!

*Must be of legal age.

10/08/2026

More than just a corner shop: Ontario’s convenience stores are the beating heart of local communities. 💚

From early morning coffee stops to late-night emergency runs, independent c-stores are deeply woven into the fabric of daily life. Across Ontario, over 6,700 independent locations employ tens of thousands of local residents, serving as crucial neighborhood hubs and economic engines that keep main streets thriving.

When you support your local convenience store, you invest directly back into your community.

🫶 Show some local love! Tag your favourite neighbourhood convenience store in the comments below!