Wellness retail is gassing up.
What’s happening: Maggie’s Refuel plans to open a hospitality-driven gas station at Beverly Hills’ historic Union 76 in 2027. The company raised a $2M pre-seed round last year to launch the concept.
Fuel up. Alongside gasoline and EV charging, Maggie’s will feature a café serving espresso drinks, matcha, pressed juice, craft froyo, grab-and-go meals, and a curated market featuring emerging CPG brands and local collaborations.
Pit stop. Drawing inspiration from Italy’s Autogrill and Japanese 7-Elevens, founder Alex Canter wants to transform an everyday errand into a destination. Backed by former 7-Eleven CEO Jim Keyes and ex-Whole Foods CEO Walter Robb, Maggie’s is betting consumers want the convenience of a corner store with the curation and hospitality of a neighborhood café.
Drive-thru. Food service now accounts for nearly 29% of c-store sales as operators invest in fresh meals, specialty coffee, and premium retail to drive traffic beyond fuel. Catering to health-minded shoppers, the snack run is looking different — 7-Eleven is investing in wellness, The Goods Mart is refining selection, and Erewhon has become a luxe experience.
Punchline: Riding a shift already at play, Maggie’s Refuel will tap counter service, experiential retail, and community-driven hospitality to get on-the-go patrons to stay awhile.
