Convenience store

A convenience store is a small store or shop, generally accessible or local. They are often located alongside busy roads, or at gas/petrol stations. This can take the form of gas stations supplementing their income with retail outlets, or convenience stores adding gas to the list of goods on offer. Railway stations also often have a convenience store.

Convenience stores in the US

Many of these stores in the United States are owned by ethnic Indians, to the degree that an Indian owner of a convenience store has become a stock (and often, stereotypical) character (see Apu, a character in The Simpsons). In some urban areas, ethnic Koreans are also active in owning convenience stores. At times, there have been ethnic tensions between Korean-American convenience store owners and African American customers. Such convenience stores had been subject to looting and arson during the 1992 Los Angeles riots. Many convenience stores in the inner-cities are often targets of robberies.

Related Topics:
India - Apu - The Simpsons - Korea - Korean-American - African American - 1992 Los Angeles riots

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The first (US) convenience store was opened in Dallas, Texas in 1927 by the Southland Ice Company, which eventually became 7-Eleven. U.S. convenience stores have since developed a somewhat negative reputation as being the frequent target of criminal armed robbery. The job of convenience store night clerk is generally considered one of the most dangerous occupations in the United States.

Related Topics:
Dallas, Texas - 1927 - 7-Eleven - Criminal - Armed robbery - Job

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In parts of the Midwest, especially Michigan, the term "party store" is used, rather than "convenience store." (Whereas, in other places, "party store" refers to a place where one may purchase party supplies.)

Related Topics:
Midwest - Michigan - Party supplies

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