Arko opens new Handy Mart store in the Carolinas

Photo courtesy of Arko Corp.

Arko Corp., the parent company of convenience store retailer GPM Investments, opened the doors to its newest Handy Mart store in Newport, North Carolina on Monday.

GPM acquired the Handy Mart chain in 2021 and the new location is an “important part of our expansion in North Carolina, and we are committed to providing the Newport community with a convenient, high-quality shopping experience and adding value to the community,” said Arie Kotler, president and CEO of Arko.

The 5,500-square-foot store, located at 2934 Highway 24, offers grab-and-go items including breakfast sandwiches, Nathan’s Famous hot dogs and the $4.99 take-and-bake frozen pizzas. The store also features a walk-in beer cellar and fueling for cars and trucks.

The opening supports Arko’s “strategic” focus on expanding its retail presence and “increasing” customer loyalty through its Fas Rewards loyalty program, the company said.

Arko will hold a grand opening ceremony from Sept. 16 to 29. “Our grand opening offers include: buy one case of water, get one free, our value pizza with an additional dollar off for $3.99, and a medium coffee or soft drink for 50 cents,” Arko said.

• GPM Investments ranks No. 6 on CSP’s Top 202 rankings of U.S. C-Store Chains by Store Count for 2024.

GPM Investments is a wholly owned subsidiary of Richmond, Virginia-based Arko Corp. The company operates more than 1,500 stores under more than 25 regional brands, including Fas Mart, Li’l Cricket and Scotchman.

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