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Since the advent of micro markets, technology has been driving disruption and innovation across the convenience services industry. One of the largely untapped innovations and same store sales growth drivers for operators is the execution of consumer-facing product promotions and advertising them digitally inside break rooms. To date, many retail-minded operators like Five Star Food Service have dipped their toes in the digital advertising waters. They test effectiveness either via ads on kiosk screens or a smattering of larger digital screens in micro market locations. If most are like Five Star, they have experienced undeniable success, but not had the operational bandwidth to expand their digital screen network.
A partnership formed late last year between G&J Marketing and Sales and LightSpeed Automation shows promise of explosive growth in the digital advertising space in the industry. Through this new partnership, G&J also represents LightSpeed’s digital advertising concept, Vision, and offers additional services to bring promotional opportunities and content management to operators on the platform.
With a current network of approximately 140 LightSpeed Vision devices powering screens, Five Star has proven the concept. As a result of recent investments in growing its marketing and micro market operations capacity, Five Star has entered a strategic partnership with G&J and LightSpeed to outfit all 850-plus existing micro markets and all future micro market installations with a digital advertising screen and Vision device.
“We are thrilled to be partnering with two progressive industry leaders in G&J and LightSpeed,” said Greg McCall, Chief Revenue Officer, Five Star. “Digital marketing is the next evolution of our robust promotional platform. Digital ads will be used to build awareness for new products, increase purchase frequency, and drive participation in corporate programs. Our roadmap also projects having 1,000 screens deployed by the end of summer!”
“Five Star has been an amazing, innovative partner in working with us through the development phase of Vision,” said David Marler, Vice President of Sales, LightSpeed. “Their marketing expertise and patience has lead the way for all operators to take advantage of this powerful tool. In addition, our partnership with G&J will accelerate the success of this new digital advertising platform by giving operators and manufacturers a new way to connect with customers.”
Five Star has long enjoyed successful relationships with both LightSpeed and G&J independent of one another. Furthermore, coming together in collaboration builds a winning recipe for everyone. This includes the product manufacturer, and most importantly, the end consumer. It combines an innovative product marketing company in G&J with industry technology experts at LightSpeed and ties in consumer-focused, growth-driven operators.
Shaped by the companies that push the envelope, the future of convenience services invest in innovation. They also execute well with the consumer in mind.
Five Star Food Service, based in Chattanooga, TN, is the Southeast’s premier on-site food and beverage solution provider. They service employers and other commercial, institutional, and educational locations. In addition, Five Star is a leader in micro-markets, full-service vending. They also provide coffee services, full-service dining, and catering across Tennessee, Georgia, Alabama, and Kentucky. Founded in 1993, Five Star has grown to one of the largest privately held operators in the United States. For more information visit our website.
LightSpeed Automation is an Industry leader in innovative business solutions. They specialize in warehouse automation, digital advertising, inventory management, online ordering, and cold food management. Learn more at www.lightspeedautomation.com.
G&J Marketing and Sales has set the standard for excellence in the industry through sales performance and innovative marketing techniques for 33 years. Committed to the success of the operators they service, the distributors to whom they partner, and the manufacturers they represent. G&J exists to promote, with PRIDE, the success of everyone they touch. Learn more at www.gandj.com.
Contact us today to get a quote for our micro market, vending, pantry, and other services. We look forward to helping you find the perfect solution for your business!
