The holiday season is on the way. You know what that means – it’s almost time to tackle another year of holiday shopping. Yikes. It might be the most wonderful time of the year, but trying to find that special item for everyone on your list can be anything but wonderful. Before the stress sets in and your bank account […]
New year, new you. You probably hear this saying (or see it in your Instagram feed) a lot every time January 1st rolls around.
For many, the start of a new year brings new goals and resolutions. According to Performance Health, about half of New Year’s Resolutions include losing weight, exercising more, or eating better. Clearly, people care about their health!
But let’s face it: healthy choices are rarely easy, convenient, or the most delicious option. In today’s fast paced world, it can be difficult to find time to hit the gym. And, while we say we’re going to make a fresh, homecooked meal…well, a drive-thru just sound a whole lot easier.
But here’s the thing: creating healthy habits doesn’t have to be a dramatic lifestyle upheaval full of 4:00 AM cardio sessions and kale smoothies. Small changes can make a big difference. Consider snacking on fruit or a granola bar in place of potato chips. Or, go for a walk instead of binging another episode on Netflix. It all adds up!
But wait, it gets better. What if we told you healthy options can be tasty and convenient? You’ll find plenty of good-for-you, guilt-free snacks and beverages in our 26 locations throughout Wisconsin and Upper Michigan. Here’s a few items you can pick up at The Store that have been handpicked by a local nutritionist to help get you started:
Check out this short video for additional details!
We care about the health of our communities, and we want to support you as you work to achieve your goals. Offering healthy, convenient and tasty options for you and your family is just one way we’re making it easier to stick to those resolutions!
The Store is a proud sponsor of the Community Weight Race, an annual event promoting weight loss and healthy lifestyle changes in the Stevens Point and Shawano communities. Follow along on Facebook as we promote healthy options all winter long!
Fall is in the air! The weather is crisp, leaves are beginning to change, and you can finally wear your favorite sweater again. There are so many great things happening this time of year, but we think the most exciting part of autumn is warm, cozy, and comes in a Styrofoam cup…Pumpkin Spice Coffee and Cappuccino!
That’s right, the wait is over. You can enjoy Pumpkin Spice Coffee and Cappuccino all season long at The Store! To make your sipping experience even better, we’ve gathered a list of fun autumn activities to get you in that “spooky season” mood. Read on!
1. Enjoy the Morning Outside
After grabbing your cup of Pumpkin Spice Coffee from The Store, start your morning outdoors. Grab a bench seat at the park or go for a leisurely stroll. Either way, you’ll enjoy the fresh, brisk autumn air (which complements coffee quite nicely, might we add). You can bring Fido along, too!
2. Watch the Leaves Change
There’s nothing quite like the Midwest this time of year. The trees are gorgeous! This season, be sure to take in the beauty around you. Stop and smell the roses – or, ehm, stop and watch the leaves! For the best locales, check out the Wisconsin Fall Color Report. This handy site will keep you updated on fall colors throughout the state so you can be sure you’re getting the most vibrant views. You can also find state parks, trails, forests and recreational areas in your area to make the most of stunning autumn scenery.
3. Take a Scenic Drive
If enjoying fall colors by car is more your thing, you’re in luck. Buckle up, place your Pumpkin Spice Coffee in the cupholder and hit the road! There are plenty of scenic drives throughout Wisconsin that showcase the state’s beautiful autumn hues. Find 11 of the best routes here, or forge your own path and share it with us on social media! We’d love to hear about your fall adventures.
4. Bake Pumpkin Goodies
To all the weekend bakers out there, this one’s for you. Pick up a Pumpkin Spice Coffee or Cappuccino and set up shop in the kitchen. Pumpkin pie, pumpkin muffins, pumpkin bread, pumpkin bars…you get the idea. Yum! Plus, your family or roommates will be excited to taste-test your treats.
Pro Tip – If you like dark chocolate chips, you’ll LOVE them in pumpkin muffins. But don’t take our word for it, try it for yourself and let us know what you think!
5. Find Festive Movies
Nothing says “fall” quite like curling up on a blustery day to watch a festive movie or two. Blanket? Check. Pumpkin Spice Coffee? Double check.
A few of our fall favorites include Hocus Pocus, Dead Poets Society, October Sky, and, of course, It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown. Gather the whole family and enjoy a film together. Plus, if you baked a few treats, they’d make a great addition to the festivities!
6. Curl Up with a Good Book
Is there anything more relaxing than a cup of joe and a great read? We don’t think so, especially when your coffee or cappuccino flavor is Pumpkin Spice! Whatever your text of choice – novel, short story, poetry, non-fiction – we think you’ll feel relaxed and rejuvenated after losing yourself in a good book for a while.
7. Hygge? Heck Yeah.
Have you heard the term “hygge”? It’s a Danish word for a feeling of coziness and contentment, and represents a lifestyle practiced by many as the temperature begins to fall. Even if you’re a summer soul at heart, everyone can enjoy a crisp autumn morning spent in a warm hoodie with a steaming cup of Pumpkin Spice Coffee in hand. It’s all about enjoying the little things, like fuzzy socks, your favorite candle, and a pumpkin bar or two. Who’s counting?
8. Have a Virtual Coffee Date
By now everyone is well acquainted with virtual connection. FaceTime, Google Meet, Zoom, you name it. Have a friend you can’t see in person or who lives far away? Why not invite them to a virtual coffee date! It’s easy: grab a cup of your favorite coffee (Pumpkin Spice Coffee or Cappuccino from The Store, of course 😉) and hop on your device! You’ll be surprised how quickly a virtual video chat will feel like you’re sitting across from your friend in a fancy coffee shop. Good conversation will warm you up, even on the chilliest of fall days.
There are so many ways to enjoy autumn in the Midwest. No matter how you spend the season, Pumpkin Spice Coffee and Cappuccino from The Store will keep you energized and toasty through it all. Happy fall, y’all!
We all love the convenience of driving. Paying for gas…not so much. But, it’s a necessary part of car ownership. If you want to get somewhere, you’ve got to have fuel!
At The Store, we make buying gas better. How, you ask? By rewarding you with gas discounts for purchasing qualifying products.
What’s that? Tell you more? We’d be happy to.
Impact Rewards+ is a free, easy to use, mobile app loyalty program that rewards you for the purchases you already make every day. You can earn points or redeem rewards nearly every time you stop in at The Store. Sounds great, right? If you’re not already an Impact Rewards+ member, follow these easy steps to sign up in just a few minutes!
There are many ways to save money and get free stuff through Impact Rewards+, like earning Club Rewards and using points to select Catalog Rewards. In this post, though, we’re going to focus on Super Saver Gas Discounts.
When you purchase qualifying items at The Store, you’ll receive Super Saver Gas Discounts. These rewards give you cents off per gallon of gas, up to 20 gallons. Depending on the product you buy, Super Saver Gas Discounts reward you with specific savings. Some items qualify for 1¢ off per gallon, some 2¢, 3¢, 4¢, 5¢, and even 10¢ off per gallon! Now, that’s some serious savings. You can view the current Super Saver Gas Discounts in the Impact Rewards+ mobile app, the in-store kiosk, or online.
Here are a few examples of Super Saver Gas Discounts you could be earning (and stacking) right now:
…and that’s just a sneak peek. There are many more Super Saver offers to take advantage of! Plus, don’t forget to stack gas discounts for even bigger savings.
If you love saving money – who doesn’t?! – join Impact Rewards+ today and get rewarded for your everyday purchases at The Store. And, if you have a question, the Impact Rewards+ Team is always happy to help. Submit a message or shoot the team an email at contact@impactrewards.com for fast, helpful assistance.
Download the app today and join to start saving money on Gas, Food and More!
It is officially sweet corn season in the Midwest. Farm fields have grown tall and the corn is ready to be enjoyed...on the cob, in a casserole, as a side dish, you name it!
We LOVE sweet corn and wish it was in season all year long. But then again, the fact that the local corn harvest comes around once a year makes it that much more special. Plus, it got us thinking of all the wonderful snacks made from corn that can be enjoyed all year long at The Store. Lend an “ear” and we’ll tell you all about ‘em!
1. Popcorn
Of course popcorn made our list of delicious corn-based snacks. It’s light, airy, filling, and downright a-maize-ing. Find low calorie popcorn options like SkinnyPop and BOOMCHICKAPOP at The Store. These satisfying snacks come in fun flavors like Sea Salt, White Cheddar and Sweet & Salty Kettle Corn — most of which have less than 40 calories per cup! Now that’s smart snacking.
2. Corn Nuts
Corn Nuts are another no-brainer – after all, “corn” is right in the name! This crunchy corn kernel snack is as flavorful as it is satisfying. When you’re in the mood for a mid-day munchie or late night bite, The Store has you covered. You’ll find Original, BBQ, Ranch and Jalapeno Cheddar Corn Nuts in our locations.
3. Tortilla Chips
Grab some salsa, because tortilla chips are next on the list! The Store stocks a wide variety of Tostitos tortilla chips, including Scoops, Multigrain, Hint of Lime, Strips and more. They’re perfect for dipping in queso, salsa, taco salad, or anything else you can think of. Pro Tip: Spread tortilla chips on a microwave-safe plate and sprinkle the top with shredded cheese. Pop it in the microwave and ~voila~ instant nachos!
P.S. – We can’t forget about our favorite flavored tortilla chips: Doritos! Whether you’re a Nacho Cheese die-hard or a Cool Ranch fanatic, The Store has what you’re craving.
4. Bugles
Bugles are another “corny” snack you’ll find at The Store. Besides being the best finger hats ever, Bugles posts awesome photos on Instagram. Seriously, they’re so funny! We highly suggest following @buglesmemes. Oh yeah, and Bugles are delicious…did we mention that already? At The Store, we’ve got ‘em in Original, Ranch, Nacho, Bold BBQ, Hot Buffalo, Churro, and Caramel.
If you’re looking for an option with some serious personality, Bugles is the snack for you.
5. Chex Mix
Next up, Chex Mix. Now, we know there can be heated debate regarding which Chex Mix pieces are superior (*ahhem* rye chips) but we can all agree that Chex Mix is a great snack for any occasion. Entertaining? Lounging on the couch? Setting off on a Road Trip? Chex Mix is the answer.
And guess what? The yellow Chex pieces are made from corn, so they’re the star of this show (sorry, rye chips). The Store offers Original, Cheddar, and Bold Party Blend flavors. Try them all and find your favorite!
6. Cereal
Aww “shucks”, we almost forgot that one of our favorite cereals is made from corn: Frosted Flakes! We already know they’re Grrrreat, but the fact that one of the main ingredients is corn makes this cereal even better. And hey, you never really outgrow breakfast cereal…especially when it’s this good. Pick up a box at The Store and start each day with a bowl, a spoon, and a mouthful of delicious corn flakes!
7. Lakeview Vodka
The last item on the list is for our Guests age 21 and older to enjoy. Lakeview Vodka comes from a locally-distilled spirits line, Northern Oasis Spirits. This liquid libation is made from 100% upper Midwest corn – the best kind of corn, of course. And, we’ll let you in on a few “kernels” of truth: Lakeview Vodka is all-natural, gluten free, and contains no artificial ingredients or additives. It’s versatile and tastes great in a martini, Bloody Mary, or your cocktail of choice. After all, every drink is better with a “view”!
Enjoy the sweet corn season while it lasts, Midwesterners. Try every crazy corn on the cob recipe you can find (and share your favorites with us, please). But, when the season comes to an end, you can count on The Store to have your favorite “corny” snacks all year round. We’ll see you next time!
You probably have tons of mobile apps on your phone. But, do you have any that help you save money on gas and earn free stuff?
Look no further than Impact Rewards+: a loyalty program that’s free to join, easy to use, and rewards you for the purchases you’re already making every day. Did we mention it’s used at all 25 The Store locations? If you’re already a member, great! If not, you should definitely sign up. Learn how to register here.
While a user-friendly app that helps you keep money in your pocket may sound too good to be true, we can assure you the savings are 100% real. There are a number of great ways to save using Impact Rewards+, including Catalog Rewards and Super Saver Gas Discounts. In this blog, though, we’ll focus on Club Rewards.
Club Rewards act as digital punch cards. When you buy club items multiple times, you’ll get one free! For example, after you buy 4 bottles Ice Mountain water, your next one will be on the house. Impact Rewards+ will track your club purchases for you, too, and your free items will automatically be applied to your purchase after you earn them. Easy, quick, convenient and rewarding…you can’t go wrong!
Sounds pretty cool, right? It gets better! Here are just a few examples of the Club Rewards offered in the Impact Rewards+ loyalty program:
Hot Beverage Club
Buy 8 cups of fresh Aromas Coffee, get your next cup free!
Coca-Cola Club
Earn a free 20 oz. Bottle of Coca-Cola after purchasing 8
Milk Club
For every 12 gallons of white milk purchased, get 1 free of charge
Mars Candy Club
Love Snickers, Twix, M&Ms and more? Enjoy a free Mars Candy item when you buy 8
Lotzza Motzza Pizza Club
Grab a free Lotzza Mottza frozen pizza after you’ve bought 8
Monster Club
Purchase 12 16 oz. Monster or Monster Tea beverages, get one free
See something you like? We thought you might. Plus, we’re just scratching the surface – there are plenty of Club Rewards to take advantage of! You can view them all on the Impact Rewards+ mobile app (available on Google Play and the App Store) or by logging into the Rewards Center Kiosk located within each The Store location.
Have questions or feedback about Impact Rewards+? We’re here to help! Send our team a message at impactrewardsplus.com or contact us by email at contact@impactrewards.com.
Happy saving!
Summer in the Midwest is full of sunshine, blue skies, and gorgeous days. Well, for the most part, anyway – we do get some crazy thunderstorms every now and again! But, most will agree that summer is a great time to be outside. Some prefer the comfort of their porch or backyard while others love to be on the water. And then there are those adventurous souls who are always looking to explore new places. For everyone – especially the latter – road trips are a great way to see the beautiful sights Wisconsin and Upper Michigan have to offer.
Pack your bags…let’s make some memories!
1. Compile your Crew
No road trip is complete without a few fellow explorers to share in the experience. Once you’ve solidified your road trip team, you’re ready to assign roles.
The title of The Driver should be bestowed upon a responsible, even keeled, focused person. Next, an attentive and engaged member of your team can claim the role of The Navigator. This person sits in the passenger seat and helps direct the course of the vehicle. Pro Tip: the Navigator should also have great taste in music, because everyone knows The Navigator is also The DJ!
The remaining members of your team will get to hang out in the back seat. One of these lucky ducks will assume the role of Snack Distributor in Chief. They’re in charge of handing out snacks evenly among team members…in between naps, that is!
2. Determine your Destination
Next, decide where you’re going! Will it be a city of interest, a state park, a beach on the Great Lakes? There are no wrong answers. Plus, there are plenty of scenic points and memorable pitstops to enjoy along the way. Visit sites like www.travelwisconsin.com and midwestliving.com for endless ideas.
3. Find your Fuel
Once you’ve got your crew assembled and your route planned, it’s time to fill up the tank — both literally and figuratively. Make a stop at The Store for 100% North American fuel products that will get you where you need to go. With 26 convenient locations throughout Wisconsin and Upper Michigan, you’ll rarely find yourself far from The Store. Pro Tip: join the Impact Rewards+ loyalty program to earn free products and save on the purchases you make every day. Click here to learn how!
4. Stock Up on Snacks
While you’re at The Store, don’t forget to pick up snacks for the road. After all, what’s a road trip without snacks? Trail mix, beef jerky, nuts, chips, candy bars, soda, tea, juice, coffee…you name it, The Store’s got it! There are plenty of healthy options, too – learn more by reading our previous blog Healthy Snacks Galore at The Store.
5. Got Games?
Ahh – you’re finally on the road. After staring out the window for a while, eating a snack or two, and listening to your favorite song 4 times, you might start to get a bit bored. Never fear – bring excitement to the car ride with these Great Road Trip Games. There are ideas for passengers of every age and interest. Plus, nothing brings people together like some friendly competition!
6. Play some Podcasts
If road trip games aren’t your style, we suggest listening to podcasts. There are TONS of podcasts out there covering almost every topic imaginable. News, education, pop culture, sports…the list goes on. There’s something for everyone! A few of our favorites are Travel Wisconsin, All About The Car (a podcast by our friends at Schierl Tire & Service) and The Daily.
No matter where you go or what you do, we know the true fun of a road trip comes from spending time with those you love. There’s no doubt you’ll have a blast in the beautiful region of Wisconsin and Upper Michigan…we’re just here to make the trip even better. Stop in at The Store for your road trip fuel and snack essentials. We bet you’ll leave with a smile!
Are you ready for hot dogs, sunshine, fireworks and fun? The 4th of July is almost here! But, did you know? When you stop at The Store to fill up your tank with North American fuel products, you can also stock up on necessities for the holiday. Talk about convenience! Let The Store be your one-stop-shop for 4th of July essentials.
First things first – What’s July 4th without tasty, grill-able food? Be sure to grab your cookout staples at The Store, like Gonella Hot Dog Buns. We’ve got all the fixings your family loves, too, including Heinz Ketchup and French’s Mustard. Don’t forget the ice for the cooler! And, if your cookout turns out to be an even bigger success than you planned for, you can count on your neighborhood The Store location to carry backup cookout supplies all holiday weekend long.
After you’ve eaten one too many brats, beat the heat with delicious ice cream. Pick up Cedar Crest Ice Cream for the family next time you stop in. The Store carries tons of flavors, so you know there’s something for everyone at your celebration. And the best part? Cedar Crest Ice Cream is much more than a just premium, small batch treat…it is family–owned and made right here in Wisconsin. There’s nothing better than fresh ice cream from the heart of America’s Dairyland!
We don’t need to tell you that the weather during the 4th of July is, almost without fail, HOT. So, before firing up the grill and scooping ice cream cones, make sure to shield yourself from the sun’s rays. Trust us, you’ll be glad you did. Luckily, The Store carries quality sunscreen and sunglasses to protect your skin and eyes from harmful UV rays. Pick up a bottle of SPF 30 or SPF 50 Banana Boat sunscreen or SPF 70 Neutrogena lotion for the fairer family members. Then, try out a pair of fashionable, functional I-gogs with polarized lenses. You won’t just be grilling in comfort…you’ll be grilling in style!
Whew…by the time the evening rolls around, all that food and sunlight can start to catch up to you. But, the festivities are not over…you need to stay awake for your family’s exclusive firework extravaganza! Before you give in and take a long nap, beat the drowsiness with 5 Hour Energy. Just one of these simple, effective energy shots is all you need for a quick pick-me-up…with only 4 calories! Plus, with a tantalizing array of fruity flavors, you really can’t go wrong.
Stocking up for July 4th has never been easier – all it takes is a quick visit to The Store. Whether you’re planning on grilling, enjoying Wisconsin-made ice cream, celebrating in the sun or enjoying fireworks (or all of the above), we’ve got what you need for a fun, safe, and memorable 4th of July.
Spring may have been unseasonably chilly, but it sure seems like summer has come early!
As the weather warms up, more people will be spending time outdoors. This is great, but it is important to remember to safeguard your skin while enjoying beautiful Midwestern summer days. Luckily, The Store has everything you need to beat the heat and protect your skin this season!
1. Slather on Sunscreen
Sunscreen is a summer necessity. No matter what outdoor activities you love (golfing, fishing, hiking, swimming, enjoying a backyard BBQ, etc.) sunscreen will protect you from harmful UV rays. At The Store, you’ll find great options from Banana Boat in SPF 30 and SPF 50. For even more protection, grab the SPF 70 lotion from Neutrogena.
SPF stands for “sun protection factor.” If your skin burns easily, you’ll need sunscreen with a higher SPF than someone who does not burn as easily. To find out which SPF level you should use, check out this great website from the American Academy of Dermatology.
To avoid sunburn and skin damage, be sure to apply sunscreen about 30 minutes before heading outside so it can properly absorb into your skin. After that, reapply at least every two hours, especially if you are sweating or swimming.
2. Hats off to…Hats!
Hats are a great way to block UV rays from your head and face. If you’ve ever sunburned your scalp, you know how painful it can be. Hats will help protect you from this pesky burn.
While not a substitute for sunscreen, hats are a simple way to shield your face from the sun’s rays. Baseball caps are great for keeping the sun out of your eyes…but don’t forget about your ears! Wide-brimmed options offer a bit more shade around your ears, neck and shoulders. Umbrellas are an easy way to provide shade as well; you can find these items at select The Store locations.
3. Shield Your Eyes with Sunglasses
Need a new pair of shades for the season? The Store has you—and your eyes—covered!
Harmful UV rays from the sun can damage not only your skin, but your eyes, too. Eyes, especially those lighter in color, are susceptible to sun damage at any age. This may lead to macular degeneration or cataracts later in life. A good pair of sunglasses that block out UV rays are a necessity, not a want. Plus, they just look cool.
Be mindful of situations that can cause the most damage to your eyes, such as when the sun is highest in the sky or when you are in a wide-open area. Certain medications can increase your body’s sensitivity to sunlight as well. Try out a pair of glasses with polarized lenses from i-gogs. These stylish and functional lenses will stop the glare and UV rays from reaching your eyes. Never leave home without your trusty pair of sunglasses from The Store!
4. Snacks for Healthy Skin
Did you know that certain foods actually promote healthy skin?
Next time you’re at The Store, pick up fresh fruit, veggies and nuts. These snacks contain vitamins, antioxidants and healthy fats that keep your skin strong and vibrant. Whether you’re in the mood for an apple, orange, banana, almonds or peanuts, show your skin some love by enjoying these tasty foods.
Your skin is always there to protect you, so make sure you protect it in return. By following these simple guidelines, you’re sure to have healthy, happy skin all summer long.
Slowly but surely summer is making its way to the Midwest. Longer days, warmer weather, and sunny skies are fast approaching…we can’t wait!
Summer is the perfect time to relax, unwind, and spend time doing what you love to do.
Whether your idea of the perfect summer day is spent on the water, traveling, grilling in the backyard or partaking in outdoor adventures, you can always find the perfect beverage to complement your fun at The Store.
1. First Things First…Coffee!
If you’re like us, coffee isn’t just a want…it’s a need. At The Store, you’ll find options to meet every coffee craving.
Going for an early morning stroll? Beat the heat with tasty Stok Cold Brew or chilled Starbucks Espresso and Frappuccino drinks. No matter which you choose, you’ll be kick starting your day the tasty way!
2. Sip some Positivi-TEA
Next time you’re heading off for a day on the boat, be sure to grab a few cans of Peace Tea. With flavors like Razzleberry, Peach, Mango and Tea & Lemonade, these beverages practically taste like summer!
Now, sit back, relax, crack a refreshing Peace Tea and enjoy the day on the water.
3. Calling all Grill Masters
If grilling out is more your style, complement your next feast with Hubert’s Lemonade. After all, everyone knows lemonade is basically the unofficial drink of summertime.
This sweet and tangy beverage comes in loads of fruity flavors the whole family will love. Plus, Hubert’s Lemonade bottles have a resealable cap so you can sip spill-free, even from the comfort of your hammock!
4. Hiking, Biking & Hydrating…Oh My!
Would you rather be exploring state parks, woodland trails or campsites?
Before your next outdoor adventure, stock up on Propel Electrolyte Water. This drink is full of vitamins, antioxidants, and electrolytes to keep your body hydrated in the summer heat.
Whether you’re hiking, biking, or simply exploring the great outdoors, Propel Electrolyte Water just became your new best friend!
5. Road Trip, Anyone?
Nothing says “road trip” like your favorite convenience store snacks.
Think back to your childhood – what gives you those feelings of nostalgia? For us, it’s a candy bar and a bottle of soda.
Before you start cruising down the road to your destination, make a stop at The Store for these treats. Coca-Cola, Pepsi, Sprite, Fanta, Mountain Dew…you name it, The Store’s got it!
6. Day at the Beach
Next time you’re packing for a trip to the beach, add Vitamin Water to your checklist.
Spending a whole day in the sun calls for some serious hydration! Luckily, Vitamin Water is packed full of vitamins, antioxidants and electrolytes to keep you energized…and the flavors are great! Plus, the bottle is plastic, so it is safe to bring to the beach. The cap is resealable, too, so you don’t have to worry about sand getting in your drink!
No matter how you choose to spend your summer, keep it fun, fresh, and flavorful with tasty drink options from The Store. You can count on us to fuel your adventures and keep you hydrated along the way!
*Photo by Hubert’s Lemonade
