MEMPHIS, Tenn. -- One year ago, many retailers were hailing the fact gas prices were dropping from record highs as the savior of their financial year. The near-record-high margins per gallon—some nearing 31 cents—provided a welcome boost after nine months of sliding volumes.

A recent report of four major public convenience store companies’ gasoline margins shows the yearend data from three of the four well under the levels of a year ago, and down even from the period ending September 2009.

APPLETON, Wis. -- Following on the success of a first site, Express Convenience Centers is adding a second drive-thru service at one of its gas stations in Appleton, Wis., reported Good Day Wisconsin.

Managers said any merchandise in the store that a customer needs can be bought through the drive-up window, with employees getting the items for the customer.

WASHINGTON -- The National Retail Federation released its 2010 economic forecast yesterday, projecting retail industry sales (which exclude automobiles, gas stations and restaurants) will increase 2.5% from last year.

According to its quarterly Retail Sales Outlook report, influential economic indicators, such as the housing market and employment, are beginning to show positive signs, which will bolster consumer confidence throughout the year. Total industry retail sales for 2009 declined 2.5%.