The search is on for “New York’s Foremost Convenience Store Families.” The recognition program is being launched by the New York Association of Convenience Stores in conjunction with its upcoming 2014 Trade Show, the theme of which is “We Are Family.”

“We’re saluting the family-operated enterprises that give vitality and strength to New York’s convenience store industry,” said NYACS Chairman Devin Spencer of Alta East Inc.

Families from across the state who own, operate, supply or service neighborhood mini-marts and convenience stores may nominate themselves. The first 10 to be designated by NYACS as one of New York’s Foremost Convenience Store Families this year are:

  • The Sidebottom family of MWS Enterprises Inc., East Amherst NY
  • The Nicosia family of Northside Grocery, Newark NY
  • The Jamal family of CPD Energy Corp., New Paltz NY
  • The Smith family of Shortstop Delis Inc., Ithaca NY
  • The Tripi family of wholesale distributor Tripifoods Inc., Buffalo NY
  • The Hawke family of Strong Oil Co., Water Mill NY
  • The Marshall family of Pit Stop Convenience Stores, Weedsport NY
  • The Wood family of Collamer Stop & Shop, East Syracuse NY
  • The Barraco family of Holiday Ice Co., Syracuse NY
  • The Vincent family of Countryside Marts, East Berne NY

“Independent mom-and-pop stores are still the heart and soul of our industry,” said Spencer. “And many of our chains grew out of a single store founded years ago by family members who are still contributing to the company’s success. We’re equally proud of the number of family-run suppliers and service providers in our membership.”

During a ceremony at the Trade Show on Thursday, May 15, at the Oncenter in Syracuse NY, honorees will receive a commemorative “Foremost Family” plaque.

Eligibility criteria includes:

  • The business is headquartered in New York State.
  • At least two members of the family are actively engaged in the business on a full-time, ongoing basis.
  • The family has owned, operated and/or managed the business for at least three years prior to March 1, 2014.
  • The business is a member of NYACS in good standing.

Nominating deadline is April 15. For a nomination form, visit www.nyacs.org.