SIGMA Magazine Features Conrad Sarreal and Anthony Karimian

In a recent article titled “Tackling the Tariffs” in SIGMA’s Independent Gasoline Marketing Magazine, Matthews™ First Vice President and Director Conrad Sarreal and Associate Anthony Karimian highlight how tariffs are currently affecting the convenience store segment nationally.

 

Sarreal and Karimian explain how today’s trade policies are intensifying pressure on fuel pricing and in-store retail margins. As fuel prices fluctuate, store operators rely heavily on retail sales to sustain profitability. “Whether it is a small, independent owner-operator or a major retail chain, tariffs will impact all businesses,” Sarreal said. “Many operators now face a difficult decision—absorb these increased costs to preserve customer loyalty, or pass them on to consumers to maintain operational viability.” He noted that electronic accessories, beverages, and snacks made with imported ingredients—typically manufactured outside the U.S.—are among the products most likely to be affected.

 

Karimian emphasized the compounding effect of inflation, which he said will further shape consumer shopping behavior under new tariff conditions. “As prices rise, shoppers tend to become more cautious with spending, which could stagnate or shrink sales for convenience store operators,” he explained. “To stay competitive, owners need to boost revenue, control costs, reduce operational risks, and develop strategies for long-term sustainable growth.”

 

The article provides a detailed look at how convenience store and gasoline marketers actively respond to short- and long-term uncertainties. Read the full article here to see the full details on how to tackle tariffs in the convenience store sector.