Convenience Store
A convenience store, corner store,
corner shop, or bodega (in Spanish-speaking areas
of the United States), is a small store that stocks
a range of everyday items such as groceries, toiletries,
alcoholic and soft drinks, tobacco products, and
newspapers. Such stores may also offer money order
and wire transfer services. They differ from general
stores and village shops in that they are not in
a rural location and are used as a convenient supplement
to larger stores.
A convenience store may be part of a gas/petrol
station. They may be located alongside busy roads,
in urban areas, or near railway stations or other
transportation hubs. In some countries, convenience
stores have long shopping hours, some being open
24 hours.
Convenience stores are usually more expensive than
regular grocery stores or supermarkets, which they
make up for with greater convenience by existing
at more locations and having shorter cashier lines.
Various types exist, for example: liquor stores
(off-licences—offies), mini-markets (mini-marts)
or party stores. Typically junk food (sweets, ice-cream,
soft drinks), lottery tickets, newspapers and magazines
are sold. Unless the outlet is a liquor store, the
range of alcohol beverages is likely to be limited
(i.e. beer and wine) or non-existent. Most stores
carry cigarettes and other tobacco products. Varying
degrees of food and grocery supplies are usually
available, from household products, to prepackaged
foods like sandwiches and frozen burritos. Automobile-related
items such as motor oil, maps and car kits may be
sold. Often toiletries and other hygiene products
are stocked. Some of these stores also offer money
orders and wire transfer services.
(Source: Wikipedia.org)
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