Convenience or C-stores offer a good business model: convenient locations, a mix of merchandise, and smart pricing. With their rise in recent years, some are beating out other retailers, according to another GlobeSt.com report.

Many aren't quite as well known as the big examples such as 7-Eleven and Circle K yet have clout in their area and a growing presence that may make them household names. 

Placer.ai took a recent look into how four C-store chains are succeeding at a time when some shoppers have become more cautious given the overall economy. One strategy for their collective success is their similarities of being conveniently located and sharing many categories of merchandise, but also their slightly different preferences that play to regional traditions such as favorite foods and habits. This recipe helps each cater to localized markets and also to those driving through the area, the Placer.ai report said.