Casey’s Expands Menu, Store Growth

Casey’s General Stores, a convenience store chain based in Ankeny, Iowa, has announced its three-year strategic plan. It aims to accelerate its food and beverage program, store growth and operational efficiency.

Casey’s operates 2,900-plus stores and considers itself the fifth-largest pizza chain in the U.S. In the next three years, it plans to continue investing in its made-to-order offerings, including pizza and chicken wings, with plans to expand its private-brand portfolio.

“Prepared foods and nonalcoholic beverages are driving strong inside sales, and we’re continuing to build on the loyalty we’ve earned through our more than 40 years in the pizza business with new offerings like wings and fries,” says Tom Brennan, chief merchandising officer at Casey’s, in the release. “In Des Moines, where wings have been available for more than a year, sales are up 20% year over year, reinforcing the significant opportunity we see as we expand the platform across our nearly 3,000 stores and further establish Casey’s as a food destination.”

Related to store growth, Casey’s plans to add at least 400 stores through acquisitions and new-store development in the next three years. It added more than 500 stores in the past three years.

Technology will play a role in enhancing operational efficiency.

“Whether it’s using AI to help improve forecasting and inventory planning, redesigning kitchens to help team members prepare more food with less friction, or enhancing digital tools like our app and Casey’s Rewards, we’re investing in practical innovations that improve efficiency, strengthen guest experience and support long-term growth,” says Ena Williams, chief operations officer at Casey’s.

For a look at another brand mapping a multiyear growth strategy, see “Einstein Bros. Bagels Sets Sights on 1,000 Stores.”