Big Y’s first wholly owned fuel and convenience store opened last week adjacent to its World Class Market in Pittsfield, Mass. The $1.9 million Big Y Express Gas & Convenience location is open from 5 a.m. to midnight, seven days a week. The World Class Market operates from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
This is Big Y’s second fuel and convenience location. The first opened in 2013 as part of a joint venture with F.L. Roberts & Co.
Ribbon cutting
Big Y kicked off a month-long celebration with product giveaways and discounts at a ribbon-cutting ceremony on May 7. Fuel discounts can be earned at the adjacent Big Y grocery store.
Old and new
The 1,574-square-foot c-store is managed by Mike Cahoon who has been with Big Y for 30 years. The location is staffed by 11 new part-time employees who were trained in local Big Y stores.
Fresh food
The c-store boasts a fresh food offering including over-stuffed gourmet sandwiches, hot soups, salads, pizzas and to-go snacks that can be eaten on the run.
Slushies and shakes
Among the most popular beverages in the store are F’Real milkshakes, which come in a variety of flavors. Shoppers can also choose from two types of Slush Puppie drinks.
Customized refreshment
C-store customers can select from 12 flavor combinations at the store’s multi-flavor soda machine.
Hot beverages
In addition to Green Mountain Coffee, a fresh ground coffee machine makes lattes and cappuccinos.
Made fresh
Doughnuts, pastries, muffins and cookies are baked fresh daily.
Hale and hearty
Hale and Hearty soups are among the lunchtime options merchandised at Big Y Express.
Private label
While national brands are well represented, Big Y’s private brand milk, bread, candy, snacks, tobacco products, lottery, ice and propane have a presence at Big Y Express.
Fuel pumps
The fuel station features 12 gas pumps with 87, 89 and 93 octane fuel and diesel at every dispenser.
Silver savings
Big Y’s loyalty program is promoted at the gas pumps. Silver Savings Club members receive 5 cents off per gallon of gas every time they show their loyalty card. An annual membership costs $20.