Gas station convenience mart redesign shows off first example in Clemmons, N.C.

Byline: Richard Craver

Dec. 18--Bigger was better for Quality Oil Co. when designing its next generation of Quality Mart convenience stores, the first of which recently opened in Clemmons just off U.S. 421.

The 24-hour store contains 4,500 square feet, which is about a third larger than previous Quality Marts and eliminates the cramped-aisle experience.

The company bills the store's eight fueling stations as the fastest pumps in town. It also features three soft- or frozen-drink dispensers, a heated car wash and a walk-in "beer cave" that is 10 feet by 12 feet and chilled to 35 degrees or below.

The company is responding to what customers …